If your dog swallows gum—especially sugar-free gum containing xylitol—call your vet immediately. Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs and can lead to seizures, liver failure, or even death within hours. Time is critical, so don’t wait.
Dog Swallowed Gum? Here’s What You Must Do Immediately
If your dog just ate gum, the first thing you need to do is check the ingredients for xylitol. If the gum contains this artificial sweetener, it’s an emergency. Call your vet or a pet poison helpline immediately. Even one stick of xylitol-containing gum can be deadly to small dogs.
Emergency action steps:
Check gum packaging for ingredients
Call your vet immediately—do not wait for symptoms
Call the Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435
Don’t induce vomiting unless instructed by a vet
Monitor your dog closely for signs of distress
Xylitol acts fast. In many cases, symptoms can begin in just 30 minutes.
Why Is Gum Dangerous for Dogs? (Especially Xylitol)
Most dog owners don’t realize gum can be lethal—not because of the gum itself, but because of xylitol, a common sugar substitute in sugar-free products like:
Orbit
Trident
Ice Breakers
Mentos Pure
Nicorette
What does xylitol do in a dog’s body?
Unlike humans, dogs absorb xylitol rapidly, which causes a sudden release of insulin. This triggers:
Severe hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar)
Liver failure
Internal bleeding
Seizures
Coma
Xylitol toxicity is one of the most urgent poisoning cases in veterinary medicine today. Even a tiny amount can be fatal.
Symptoms of Gum Toxicity in Dogs
Symptoms of gum toxicity don’t always appear right away. If they do, it may already be serious.
Early signs (30 minutes – 2 hours):
Vomiting
Weakness or lethargy
Loss of coordination
Trembling
Pale gums
Advanced symptoms (2–12 hours):
Seizures
Collapse
Jaundice (yellow gums or eyes)
Coma
Important: Not all symptoms appear at once. Some dogs show mild signs that rapidly escalate.
Xylitol Toxicity Levels: How Much Gum Is Too Much?
Xylitol is toxic at just 50 mg per kg of body weight.
That means:
One piece of gum with 0.3–0.4g xylitol can kill a 5 kg (11 lb) dog
Three pieces can be fatal for a 15 kg (33 lb) dog
Common gum brands and estimated xylitol content:
Orbit: ~170 mg per piece
Trident: ~150–200 mg per piece
Ice Breakers: ~120 mg per piece
Small dogs are especially at risk—even a single stick is dangerous.
Emergency Treatment: What Vets Will Do
If you bring your dog in right away, there’s a better chance of recovery.
Common treatments include:
Inducing vomiting (only under supervision)
Activated charcoal (to reduce absorption)
IV glucose to maintain blood sugar
Hospitalization and liver support
Blood monitoring every few hours
Dogs that receive prompt treatment within an hour of ingestion often recover fully. Delay, however, can lead to permanent liver damage or death.
What If the Gum Doesn’t Contain Xylitol?
Even if the gum is sugar-based, it can still cause problems:
Choking hazard for smaller dogs
Gastrointestinal obstruction, especially with wrappers
Digestive upset like vomiting or diarrhea
Dogs can’t digest gum. It must pass through their system intact. If it doesn’t move properly, it can get stuck and require surgical removal.
Watch for signs:
Constipation
Bloating
Repeated vomiting
Loss of appetite
Prevention: How to Keep Your Dog Safe from Gum
Gum shouldn’t be anywhere near your dog. Prevention is always better than a vet emergency.
Dog-proofing tips:
Never leave gum in purses, bags, or jacket pockets on the floor
Keep gum in high cupboards
Use child-proof locks in lower cabinets
Don’t allow gum in your car if your dog rides with you
Training tips:
Teach “leave it” and “drop it” commands
Discourage counter-surfing
Offer safe chew toys to redirect interest
Careers Collectiv also recommends creating a pet-safe home inventory—review everything your dog can reach and secure it.
Sometimes, fur parents are also wondering what might happen if their dog eats food with avocado oil. Like gum, it’s important to understand what’s safe and what’s risky for dogs. Always consult your vet if you’re unsure.
