Some dogs will eat anything, and most dogs are curious about the things that we put in our mouths. However, many of the foods we eat and the products we use are poisonous to dogs.
You probably know to keep things like medications and household cleaners out of reach of your pets. And you most likely know not to let your dog eat chocolate or turkey bones either.
However, many people don’t know that ordinary things like toothpaste, mouthwash, and sugar-free gum are also dangerous. That’s because dental products often contain xylitol, a sugar substitute that’s safe for humans but toxic to dogs.
Our vets explain why xylitol is so dangerous for dogs, and what to do if your dog eats your toothpaste.
Why Is Toothpaste Dangerous for Dogs?
There’s a reason why you spit your toothpaste out. It contains many ingredients, like fluoride, that simply aren’t supposed to get swallowed. Plus, chances are high that it also contains xylitol, a sugar-free sweetener that is potentially toxic to dogs.
Xylitol Poisoning in Dogs Can Be Deadly
The reason why xylitol is dangerous for dogs and not for people is in the way our bodies process it. Xylitol has no effect on blood sugar levels in humans. However, it triggers the rapid release of insulin in dogs. This can lead to dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), a condition which can quickly become life-threatening.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats Toothpaste
If you find a chewed-up tube of toothpaste on the floor, call your vet right away. If it’s outside their office hours, call the Pet Poison Helpline. Depending on the size of your dog and how much toothpaste they ate, emergency care may be necessary.
Signs of xylitol poisoning in dogs can include:
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Staggering/Incoordination
- Collapse
- Seizures
But even if your dog isn’t exhibiting any symptoms, if you think they ate toothpaste, let your vet know. It can take 12-24 hours for symptoms to begin, and your dog may need to be monitored overnight for signs of hypoglycemia.
But aren’t you supposed to brush your dog’s teeth? If toothpaste is dangerous, what do you use?
The best thing to do is buy a vet-approved pet toothpaste. They come in dog-friendly flavors like chicken and beef. And you’ll be able to rest easy knowing that all of the ingredients are safe.
Alternatively, you can make your own dog toothpaste at home. Here’s an easy recipe for a natural toothpaste that’s safe for dogs. The baking soda will scrub the plaque off their teeth, and the fresh herbs will fight bad breath.
DIY Toothpaste for Dogs
Ingredients:
- 5 fresh parsley leaves
- 3 fresh mint leaves
- 2 ½ Tablespoons baking soda
- 1 tsp coconut oil
- 1 Tablespoon water (add more if needed)
Instructions:
- Crush the fresh herbs and mince them finely to release their natural oils.
- Combine all the ingredients in a small bowl and mix well—it should turn into a vibrant green paste.
- Wait one hour before using it for the first time. Store in a sealed jar in the refrigerator. (Keeps fresh for one week.)
Keep Xylitol Away from Dogs
Always store dental products like mouthwash, toothpaste, and breath mints in a drawer or cabinet where your dog can’t reach them. DO NOT leave them sitting out on your bathroom counter.
If you ever feed your dog peanut butter, it’s best to go with the unsweetened, fresh-ground type. Some nut butters have xylitol in them, so always read the ingredients carefully before feeding them to your pet.
Urgent Care for Dogs in Gilbert, Arizona
If your dog ate your toothpaste, it could be a matter of life or death. Xylitol poisoning in dogs is a serious matter. Please do not hesitate to call us or come in immediately. Our team will assess your pet’s condition and get them in for treatment as quickly as possible.
Photo by Roman Marchenko on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 11/4/24.