You may have heard this before but in general, dogs should never have sweets. Certain artificial sweeteners are extremely toxic to dogs even in small amounts. Make sure that these products are stored safely in a place where your dog can’t reach them. The American Kennel Club has put together a list of these products. Save them and refer to them often.

This list of common artificial sweeteners below will help you decipher what is dangerous and safe. Remember to always READ THE LABELS of the food in your home. Often times, dangerous ingredients such as Xylitol are found in products you wouldn’t expect.

Xylitol

This naturally produced sweetener is found in many “sugar-free” items such as ice cream, candies, pastries, gums, yogurts, juices and more. Xylitol is HIGHLY TOXIC and potentially fatal if consumed. Even in small doses, it can cause seizures, liver failure, and death.

Erythritol

This non-caloric sugar alcohol is considered safe for dogs but in large quantities, gastrointestinal symptoms may occur.

Stevia (green packet)

This is a naturally produced sweetener from the stevia plant. Stevia is safe for dogs to consume, but in large quantities, it can cause diarrhea.

Aspartame (blue packet)

There are no serious health effects aside from minor gastrointestinal problems. That being said, it is in no way a healthy product for dogs to consume.

Saccharin (pink packet)

Saccharin is safe for dogs, but can cause gastrointestinal issues, and long-term effects have not yet been tested on pets.

Sucralose (yellow packet)

Sucralose is generally safe, but can cause diarrhea in dogs.

Monk fruit

Monk fruit is a newer sweetener on the market. It is similar Stevia, and generally safe if consumed by dogs.

Remember, Pets are family.

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