PupkeeperCaution
Dog ate melatonin (sleep gummies and tablets)? Caution: what to do now
Caution. Melatonin usually causes only mild sleepiness or vomiting, but some products, including gummies, may contain xylitol, which can be deadly.
If your dog ate or touched this, call your vet or a pet poison line now
United States
Poison lines in other countries: United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Belgium, France, JM, PR, Singapore, Switzerland, TT, VI
Melatonin (sleep gummies and tablets) and dogs: key facts
- Verdict
- Caution · Call your vet or a poison line
- What it can do
- Vomiting, sleepiness or low energy, wobbly walking (rare) and weakness, wobbling or seizures if the product had xylitol.
- How fast
- Within 30 minutes if the product had xylitol
- What to do now
- Call your vet or a pet poison line now. All steps
- Sources
- ASPCA, Merck Veterinary Manual. Reviewed 9 October 2026.
What should I do if my dog ate melatonin (sleep gummies and tablets)?
- Call your vet or a pet poison line now.
- Check the label for xylitol and bring the package with you.
- If your dog is wobbly, keep it in a small, safe space so it can't get hurt.
Don't
- Don't make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
- Don't give your dog any melatonin product without checking the label for xylitol.
Symptoms to watch for
- Vomiting
- Sleepiness or low energy
- Wobbly walking (rare)
- Weakness, wobbling or seizures if the product had xylitol
When signs appear: Within 30 minutes if the product had xylitol
Why
Melatonin is a sleep aid, and its effects are not expected to be severe even in an overdose. Xylitol, a sweetener in some products, can cause low blood sugar and liver injury in dogs.
Sources
- ASPCA: Keep Calm: What to Do If Your Pet Gets into Calming Aids or Treats
- ASPCA: Help! My Dog Just Ate Some Gummies! What Do I Do?
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Xylitol Toxicosis in Dogs
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026. Page updated 7 November 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.