The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals studied eight dogs who had liver failure and other problems.

They all ingested products containing Xylitol, a sugar alcohol used to sweeten foods, candy, gum and beverages.

The ASPCA study’s dogs from 2003 through 2005 included:

• A four-year-old male Welsh springer spaniel who ate four large chocolate-frosted muffins.

• A three-year-old male standard poodle who ate five or six cookies.

• A five-year-old female Scottish terrier who ate 30 pieces of gum.

• A six-year-old female Labrador retriever who ate 450 grams of Xylitol powder.

• A seven-year-old female miniature dachsund who ate 100 pieces of gum.

• A four-year-old female Australian shepherd who ate 12 cupcakes.

• An eight-year-old female Labrador retriever who ate 140 grams of Xylitol powder.

• A six-year-old female Dalmatian who ate eight muffins.

Five of the eight dogs died or were euthanized because of liver failure.

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