✓ Reviewed against PDSA, Blue Cross & Animal PoisonLine guidance · Last reviewed: 2026-07
Can dogs eat mints?
The full picture
Regular sugared mints (Polo, Murray mints, Mintoes) aren't acutely toxic but are pure sugar — not dog food. The real danger is sugar-free mints: Trebor, Tic Tac, Mentos sugar-free, and most 'breath mints' contain xylitol. Check the ingredients on anything sugar-free. Even sugared mints in large amounts can upset a dog's stomach. Mint itself (fresh or dried mint leaves) is safe and sometimes used for dog breath — but not the sweet variety.
If your dog ate more than a safe amount
Sugar-free mints almost certainly contain xylitol — call your vet or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 immediately. Regular sugar mints in small amounts: watch for digestive upset.
Risks to watch for
- Xylitol in most sugar-free versions
- Sugar content
- Choking on whole mints
Safe portion size
None.
Safer alternatives
- Fresh mint leaf (tiny piece)
- Dog dental chews
And while you're thinking about what's good for your dog, keeping on top of flea and parasite prevention is just as important as diet.
Common questions
Is mints safe for dogs?
How much mints can a dog eat?
What are the risks of mints for dogs?
What should I do if my dog eats too much mints?
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