Safety basics

Reading Labels for Hidden Dangers

The ingredients that hide in baked goods and pantry staples, and the label words that give them away.

Xylitol's other names

The FDA says xylitol may also be listed as birch sugar or wood sugar. Check anything labeled sugar-free or low sugar.

  • Some peanut and nut butters
  • Sugar-free gum, mints and candy
  • Baked goods and sugar-free desserts, including 'skinny' ice cream
  • Chewable vitamins, supplements and some medicines
  • Toothpaste and mouthwash

Chocolate by any name

Cocoa, cacao, cocoa powder, baking chocolate and chocolate chips are all chocolate. Cocoa powder and unsweetened chocolate are the strongest (Merck).

Grapes in disguise

Raisins, currants, sultanas and grape jelly are all grapes for a dog (Merck). Look for them in breads, cookies, fruitcake, granola and trail mix.

Alcohol

Vanilla extract is at least 35% alcohol by U.S. law. Check other extracts and liqueur-flavored fillings for alcohol on the label.

Savory bakes

Onion powder, garlic powder and chives show up in breads, crackers and biscuits. Powders are the most concentrated form (Merck).

Keep exploring

Sources

  1. Paws Off Xylitol; It's Dangerous for Dogs, U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Checked October 22, 2026.
  2. Chocolate Toxicosis in Animals, Merck Veterinary Manual. Checked October 22, 2026.
  3. Grape, Raisin, and Tamarind Toxicosis in Dogs, Merck Veterinary Manual. Checked October 22, 2026.
  4. 21 CFR 169.175, Vanilla extract (standard of identity), Legal Information Institute (U.S. Code of Federal Regulations text). Checked October 22, 2026.
  5. Garlic and Onion Toxicosis in Animals, Merck Veterinary Manual. Checked October 22, 2026.

Last checked against these sources: October 22, 2026.

Written by VanillaGoods from the cited sources. Not reviewed by a veterinarian. Not a substitute for veterinary advice.