Deadly Gum: How to Train Your Dog to Ignore Xylitol on Walks

The ‘Leave It’ command is your single most important tool in preventing your dog from eating dangerous items. The goal is to teach your dog that ignoring a tempting item and looking at you instead is far more rewarding. We’ll start this training indoors, in a quiet space with minimal distractions.

What You’ll Need:

• Two types of treats: some of your dog’s regular, slightly boring kibble (low-value) and some extra-special, smelly treats like chicken or cheese (high-value).
• Patience and a positive attitude!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. The Two-Fist Method: Place a low-value treat in one hand and close your fist. Let your dog sniff your closed fist. They will likely lick, paw, and nibble at it. The moment they pull their head away, even for a second, say “Yes!” and give them a high-value treat from your other hand. Repeat this until your dog consistently moves away from the treat-fist without prompting.
2. Introducing the Cue: Once your dog is reliably backing away from your fist, you can add the verbal cue. As you present your closed fist, say “Leave it.” When they pull away, praise them and reward them from your other hand.
3. Upping the Ante: Now, place the low-value treat on the floor and cover it with your hand. Say “Leave it.” If your dog tries to get the treat, keep your hand firmly in place. The second they back off, praise and reward them with a high-value treat.
4. The Final Indoor Step: The true test! Place a low-value treat on the floor completely uncovered. Give the “Leave it” command. Be ready to cover it with your foot or hand if they lunge for it. When they successfully ignore it and look to you, shower them with praise and high-value treats. Practice this in short, fun sessions throughout the day.

Expert Tip: The reward for ‘Leave It’ should always be better than the item they are leaving. This is why we use high-value treats. You’re teaching them that listening to you is the best deal they can get!

A dog who can ‘Leave It’ in the living room won’t necessarily do it on a busy sidewalk filled with irresistible smells. The process of making a command reliable in different environments is called ‘proofing’. This is where we gradually increase the difficulty to prepare your dog for real-life temptations.

Level 1: The Backyard

Start in your backyard or another familiar, secure outdoor space. Repeat the final indoor step: placing a low-value treat on the ground and asking your dog to leave it. The new sights and smells are a built-in distraction, so be patient and keep it positive.

Level 2: The Quiet Sidewalk

Once they’re reliable in the yard, move to the sidewalk on a quiet street. Keep your dog on a short leash. Before your dog notices it, ‘accidentally’ drop a low-value treat a few feet in front of you. Give your ‘Leave It’ command firmly and cheerfully. When they ignore it, reward them enthusiastically. If they go for it, use the leash to gently guide them away and try again from a greater distance.

Level 3: Simulating the Real Thing

You need to practice with items that mimic the look of trash without the danger. Use things like a crumpled napkin, a bottle cap, or a non-toxic food item your dog isn’t crazy about. Place these ‘bait’ items on your path before you walk there. Practice your ‘Leave It’ command as you approach them. The goal is for your dog’s default reaction to be looking at you when they see something on the ground, expecting a reward.

Remember: Every successful ‘Leave It’ on a walk is a huge win! Make a big deal out of it. Your excitement reinforces the good choice they made.

Even with the best training, accidents can happen in a split second. If you suspect your dog has eaten gum or anything containing xylitol, you must act immediately. This is a true medical emergency.

Signs of Xylitol Poisoning:

Symptoms can appear within 15-30 minutes of ingestion and can progress rapidly. Be on the lookout for:

• Vomiting
• Weakness or lethargy
• Stumbling or difficulty walking (appearing ‘drunk’)
• Tremors or seizures
• Collapse or loss of consciousness

Your Immediate Action Plan:

1. Call for Help Immediately: Do not wait for symptoms to appear. Immediately call your veterinarian, a local veterinary emergency clinic, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. Have a pen ready to write down their instructions.
2. Gather Information: If possible, try to determine what and how much your dog ate. If there’s a wrapper, save it. This information is critical for the vet to determine the level of toxicity and the best course of treatment.
3. Do NOT Induce Vomiting: Never induce vomiting unless you are explicitly instructed to do so by a veterinary professional. Doing so improperly can cause serious complications.
4. Follow Veterinary Advice: Your vet will provide the next steps, which will likely involve bringing your dog in immediately for examination and treatment to stabilize their blood sugar and support their liver.

For some dogs, especially those with a history of scavenging (we’re looking at you, Labradors and Beagles!), training alone might not be enough. Combining training with good management tools can provide an extra layer of safety and give you peace of mind.

• Scan Ahead: Become a hawk-eyed walker. Actively scan the path 10-15 feet ahead of you for any potential hazards. It’s much easier to steer your dog away from something you see first.
• Use a Head Halter: A tool like a Gentle Leader or Halti gives you better control over your dog’s head. It’s not a muzzle, but it allows you to gently guide their head and attention away from something on the ground.
• Consider a Basket Muzzle: For extreme, high-risk scavengers, a comfortable, well-fitted basket muzzle is a fantastic safety tool. Your dog can still pant, drink, and even take treats through it, but they cannot physically pick up and swallow dangerous items. Introduce it slowly with lots of positive reinforcement to create a happy association.
• Carry High-Value ‘Trade’ Treats: Sometimes your dog will get something before you can say ‘Leave It’. Teach a ‘Drop It’ command by offering them a super high-value treat in exchange for the item in their mouth. This turns a potential confrontation into a positive trading game.