Rosehip is the part of the rose flower that remains after it has finished blooming, and the petals have dropped. The Rosehip that develops after flowering is often a bright red colour and contains the seeds of the rose plant.
Rosehip has been used in traditional medicine for many years, due to containing high levels of Vitamin A, Vitamin B5, Vitamin C and Vitamin E. Is Rosehip good for dogs? The answer is yes, so read on to find out how this wonder ingredient can also benefit the health of our four-legged friends.
Rose hips are the fruit of rose plants and they pack a powerful nutritional punch. Dog owners often wonder, can dogs eat rose hips? Are they safe? What are the benefits? This article will explain everything you need to know about feeding rose hips to dogs.
What are Rose Hips?
Rose hips are the fruit that grows at the base of rose flowers after the petals fall off, They are typically red and orange in color,
Rose hips contain the seeds of the rose plant. They have a sweet, tart taste and can be eaten raw or used to make teas, jams, and nutritional supplements.
The most common rose hips come from the dog rose plant (Rosa canina) but many other rose species produce edible hips. Rose hips are harvested in late summer and fall.
Nutritional Benefits of Rose Hips for Dogs
Rose hips are loaded with beneficial nutrients, especially vitamin C. Here are some of the top nutrients found in rose hips:
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Vitamin C – Rose hips are one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C. Just 1 tablespoon provides over 100% of a dog’s daily vitamin C needs. Vitamin C supports immune health and is an antioxidant.
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Vitamin A – Rose hips contain beta-carotene which converts to vitamin A. Vitamin A supports eye health, growth, reproduction and immune function.
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Vitamin E – A fat-soluble antioxidant that combats free radicals and inflammation.
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Vitamin K – Important for blood clotting.
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Calcium – Vital for healthy bones and teeth.
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Bioflavonoids – These compounds boost the immune system and have antioxidant effects
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Carotenoids – Antioxidants that are great for skin/coat health.
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Essential fatty acids – Promotes healthy skin and coat.
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Anti-inflammatory compounds – Rose hips contain galactolipids that reduce inflammation and joint pain.
Are Rose Hips Safe For Dogs to Eat?
Yes, rose hips are safe and non-toxic for dogs to eat. However, there are some risks to be aware of:
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Choking hazard – The seeds and flesh can pose a choking risk if large pieces are swallowed. It’s best to grind/process hips into a powder before feeding.
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Intestinal blockages – Dogs that eat whole rose hips may be at risk for intestinal blockages or perforations from the seeds and flesh getting stuck.
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Pesticides – Only harvest rose hips from plants you know have not been treated with pesticides. Wash hips thoroughly.
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Excessive fiber – Too many rose hips may cause loose stool or diarrhea due to the high fiber content. Start with small amounts.
So while rose hips are safe in moderation, dogs should not eat whole hips or large quantities due to risk of digestive upset. It’s best to feed processed rose powder or oil.
Benefits of Rose Hips for Dogs
Here are some of the top health benefits of rose hips for dogs:
1. Supports Joint Health
Rose hips contain anti-inflammatory galactolipids that may help relieve arthritis symptoms in dogs. A 2016 study in dogs with osteoarthritis found that a rose hip powder supplement reduced joint pain and stiffness.
2. Boosts the Immune System
The high vitamin C content in rose hips gives your dog’s immune system a boost by supporting immune cell function. The bioflavonoids also have antimicrobial and immune-enhancing effects.
3. Improves Skin and Coat
The vitamin A and essential fatty acids in rose hips promote healthy skin and give your dog a glossy coat. Rose hip oil can also soothe dry, itchy skin when applied topically.
4. Antioxidant Support
Rose hips are rich in antioxidants including vitamin C, carotenoids, flavonoids and lycopene. These compounds combat free radicals and oxidative damage in your dog’s body.
5. Supports Digestion
The fiber, vitamins, and minerals in rose hips support GI health. Rose hips may help relieve digestive issues like constipation, diarrhea, and colitis.
How to Safely Feed Your Dog Rose Hips
Here are some tips for safely incorporating rose hips into your dog’s diet:
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Grind dried hips into a powder to reduce choking risk. Or use a commercial rose hip supplement powder.
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Mix powder into your dog’s regular food or make into a broth/gravy.
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For picky dogs, disguise powder in yogurt, cottage cheese, or peanut butter.
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Give 1⁄4 teaspoon per 10 lbs body weight daily. Adjust amount based on dog’s size.
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Start with small amounts to avoid digestive upset.
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To make tea, steep 1 tsp dried hips per cup of boiling water for 15 minutes. Let cool before serving.
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For skin benefits, rub rose hip oil onto dry skin or mix into bath water.
Monitor your dog after first feeding rose hips to watch for any diarrhea or vomiting. Discontinue use if any negative reaction occurs.
It’s best to consult your veterinarian before giving new supplements long-term. But used safely, rose hips make an excellent addition to a dog’s diet.
Potential Side Effects of Rose Hips
When fed in moderation, most dogs tolerate rose hips well. But possible side effects can include:
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Upset stomach or diarrhea – Too many rose hips may irritate the digestive tract.
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Allergic reaction – Some dogs may be allergic to rose hips. Discontinue use if hives, swelling or other reaction occurs.
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Drug interactions – Rose hips may interact with some medications like blood thinners and NSAIDs. Check with your vet.
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Intestinal blockage – Dogs should not eat whole hips due to risk of blockage from seeds/flesh getting lodged.
If your dog experiences diarrhea, vomiting, or other concerning symptoms after eating rose hips, stop giving them immediately and contact your vet.
Answering Common Questions about Dogs and Rose Hips
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about feeding dogs rose hips:
Can I give my dog rose hips straight off the bush?
No, dogs should not eat rose hips directly off the plant. Only give rose hips that have been processed into powder or oil to reduce risks.
What is the best way to prepare rose hips for dogs?
Grinding dried rose hips into powder is ideal, as it eliminates choking hazards. Or purchase a commercial rose hip supplement powder made for pets.
How much rose hip should I give my dog?
A general guideline is 1⁄4 tsp powder per 10 lbs body weight daily. Adjust amount based on your dog’s size and needs. Start slowly with small amounts.
Are the seeds of rose hips safe for dogs?
The seeds themselves are not toxic, but they pose a risk for intestinal blockages or perforation. Only feed rose hip powder, not whole seeds.
Can I make rose hip tea for my dog?
Yes, you can brew rose hip tea using 1 teaspoon of dried hips per cup of boiling water. Let cool completely before serving a small amount to your dog.
What are the signs of a rose hip allergy in dogs?
Allergic reactions to rose hips are uncommon but can include facial swelling, hives, vomiting, and diarrhea. Discontinue use if any concerning symptoms develop.
Can I give my dog too much rose hip powder?
Yes, feeding excessive amounts of rose hips may cause digestive upset. Stick to the recommended serving guidelines based on your dog’s size to avoid problems.
Conclusion
In conclusion, rose hips provide a powerhouse of nutrition and health benefits for dogs. When fed properly, they are safe and well-tolerated.
Be sure to only give processed hip powder or oil, not whole rose hips or seeds. Start slowly with small amounts and watch for any digestive upset. Consult your vet about using rose hips as a long-term supplement.
With their high antioxidant content and anti-inflammatory effects, rose hips are an excellent addition to a balanced canine diet. They support joint health, the immune system, skin, coat, and digestion in dogs.
How to give your dog Rosehip
As with any supplement, it’s a good idea to consult your vet before proceeding in case there might be any interactions with medications your pet is taking or other conditions they may have.
Rosehip is full on antioxidants that can support immune system health in dogs
Rosehip is high in Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant. Antioxidants are important as they combat free radicals. Free radicals are also important molecules as they make up part of the immune system that can fight against pathogens that cause illness. However, when there are more free radicals present than can be kept in balance by antioxidants, they can start doing damage to fatty tissue, DNA and proteins in your dogs body. Antioxidants like Vitamin C can help reduce excess free radicals ensuring they don’t do damage to the body but can still help fight against disease.
