Sorbitol is an artificial sweetener commonly used in human and canine products. It can be found in confections, pharmaceutical products, oral care products, as well as dog treats and dog toothpaste.
As sorbitol functions as a sugar substitute much like the most-feared xylitol, some dog owners are concerned if it shares the same health dangers to canine health.
In this article, we will have a closer look at sorbitol and go over its known effect on a dog’s body.
What Is Sorbitol?
Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol that naturally occurs in various types of fruits and berries, such as apples, dates, cranberries, and apricots.
However, the sorbitol used as a sugar substitute in different commercial products is mainly synthetically extracted from glucose from starches like cassava, corn, potato, and wheat.
Sorbitol has been used in the USA by the food industry for nearly a century. It goes by other names like:
- D-Sorbitol
- Sorbitol
- D-Glucitol
- 50-70-4
- Glucitol
This artificial sweetener has low glycemic levels and low caloric content compared to traditional sugar. Thus, it is less likely to cause spikes in blood sugar and contribute to weight gain.
It also has several other functions such as preserving moisture, improving the texture of food, and serving as a stabilizer in medications.
Sorbitol vs Xylitol: Toxic Risks
Both sorbitol and xylitol are similar in many ways. They are commonly used in sugar-free products and are known for having low GI levels and low caloric value.
However, one of them is proven to be highly toxic to dogs. Ingesting even a small amount of xylitol, measuring 0.5 grams of xylitol per 2 pounds of body weight, can result in liver failure.
Xylitol poisoning in canines can lead to other life-threatening side effects, such as hypoglycemia.
With this in mind, be sure to check the ingredient lists in food and house products. Anything containing xylitol should be kept away from your furry pal’s reach.
If you suspect that your dog ingested this sugar substitute, take him to an animal clinic or an emergency pet hospital immediately. If you can’t make it to these establishments, contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline for assistance.
Is Sorbitol Safe for Dogs?
Sorbitol is included in the Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) list of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). According to the organization, it presents no carcinogenic effects or toxicity.
This artificial sweetener is also seen to have a promising effect on diabetic dogs.
According to a 2013 journal article, dogs fed diets containing sorbitol blends, even concentrations as low as 5%, reduced blood glucose and insulin responses.
However, more research needs to be done to confirm its positive effect on canines with diabetes.
Although sorbitol has its good side, this sweetener may induce unwanted side effects if ingested in large doses. The compound has laxative properties, hence it is sometimes used to treat constipation in humans.
Sorbitol draws water into the intestine to produce softer stools. Excessive intake can cause symptoms of gastrointestinal distress in dogs, such as:
- Diarrhea
- Flatulence
- Stomach pains
- Dehydration
These side effects are often temporary and resolve on their own within 24 hours. Dogs that experience diarrhea for more than one day are at risk of dehydration. Thus, they should be taken to the vet for medical intervention.
Apart from stomach issues, sorbitol is potentially linked to birth defects. However, the study conducted on this issue observed the sweetener’s reproductive side effects on rats, not dogs.
Should Dog Owners Avoid Pet Products With Sorbitol?
Sorbitol is generally safe for canines when ingested in small amounts. But not all pawrents feel comfortable seeing this sugar substitute in their choice of dog treats and dog toothpaste.
Thus, it is the dog owner’s discretion whether they should completely avoid pet brands that use sorbitol. An alternative route is to make homemade versions of these products.
When making dog treats, keep in mind that certain natural ingredients such as apples, apricots, cranberries, and dates naturally produce sorbitol in small amounts.
Read: 5 Homemade Sugar-Free Diabetic Dog Treats
FAQs About Sorbitol’s Safety for Dogs
1. Is Sorbitol Same as Xylitol?
Sorbitol is the same as xylitol in certain aspects. Both of them are low-calorie and low-glycemic sugar substitutes. However, unlike xylitol, sorbitol does not pose any toxic risks to dogs.
Xylitol is one of the most poisonous substances for canines. Even in small doses, it can trigger life-threatening side effects such as liver failure and extremely low blood glucose levels.
2. Is Dog Toothpaste With Sorbitol Safe for Dogs?
Dog toothpaste with sorbitol is generally safe for dogs to use since it only contains small amounts of the sugar sweetener.
Some dogs are prone to dietary indiscretion and may attempt to ingest dog toothpaste. Avoid accidental ingestion of dog toothpaste by placing the product out of your canine companion’s reach.
3. What Are the Side Effects of Sorbitol in Dogs?
Gastric distress is one of the expected side effects of sorbitol in dogs. If taken in large amounts, its laxative effect becomes too potent, which causes stomach problems such as diarrhea, flatulence, and abdominal pains.
Tummy troubles in canines resulting from excessive sorbitol intake are usually self-limiting. They tend to resolve within 24 hours. If they continue to persist, especially diarrhea, a check-up from the vet is warranted.
4. What Happens If My Dog Eats Gum With Sorbitol?
Gastric side effects are the least of your worries if your dog eats gum with sorbitol. He is in danger of intestinal blockage if he has consumed gum in large quantities.
This condition makes it difficult for food and water to move through his digestive tract. Failure to provide medical attention within 3 to 7 days may result in life-threatening consequences.
Conclusion
Sorbitol is not a deadly artificial sweetener for dogs, unlike xylitol. However, excessive intake may trigger its laxative properties, resulting in diarrhea and other GI issues.
As sorbitol is present in many dog products, pawrents need to be careful to limit their pet’s intake of this ingredient. If you are looking for natural ways to avoid sorbitol in dog treats, browse through our Diets & Recipes section for ideas.
