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Xylitol, an artificial sweetener often found in sugar-free gum and toothpaste, is proving to be more dangerous to dogs than previously believed. It was once thought that the danger from Xylitol was limited to mainly causing low blood sugar in dogs, but researchers are beginning to understand that its real threat to a dog's health is "sudden life-threatening liver disease and blood-clotting problems."

The first dog identified to have the more severe symptoms was a 4-year-old neutered male Welsh springer spaniel that ate four large chocolate-frosted muffins that contained Xylitol. Review of the ASPCA records also identified seven more dogs that had eaten Xylitol powder or Xylitol sweetened products between 2003 and 2005. Five of these eight dogs had to be euthanized or died because of liver failure.

Other sweetener and sugar substitutes are safe for dogs and won’t cause significant illness unless ingested in large amounts. These would include saccharin, aspartame and sucralose.

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Because of the potential for very rapid, life-threatening symptoms, your veterinarian should be contacted immediately if your dog has eaten a product containing Xylitol. Also remember to save the wrapper or container so the ingredient information can be provided to your veterinarian.