Rose Hips

Rosa canina

Evidence: BFamily: Rosaceae

Vitamin C and bioflavonoid-rich fruit that supports joint cartilage, immune function, and antioxidant status. Especially critical for guinea pigs and primates who cannot endogenously synthesize vitamin C.

Consult Your Veterinarian First

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before using herbal remedies for your pet — especially if they are on medication, pregnant, or have existing health conditions.

Species Safety

An herb safe for one species may be toxic to another.

Dogs

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Cats

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Horses

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Rabbits

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Birds

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Guinea Pigs

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Dosing Guide

General guidance only — always consult your veterinarian.

SpeciesFormDoseFrequencyNotes
Dogsdried herb10-30 mg /lbonce dailyPowdered hips sprinkled on food; builds joint resilience over weeks.
Catsdried herb100-250 mgonce dailyFinely powdered; mix thoroughly with moist food.
Horsesdried herb15-30 gramsonce dailyCrushed hips on grain; daily during winter and competition season.
Guinea Pigsdried herb200-500 mgonce dailySupports vitamin C requirement; alongside fresh peppers and greens.
Rabbitsdried herb1-2 gramsonce dailyTreat-level amount; not daily if overweight.

Active Compounds

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)(other)
Galactolipids(other)
Carotenoids(terpene)
Flavonoids (quercetin, catechin)(flavonoid)

Compounds marked Cat Unsafe (phenols and many terpenes) cannot be metabolized by feline livers.

Quick Info

Plant Family

Rosaceae

Parts Used

fruit

Available Forms

dried herb, tea, capsule, glycerin tincture

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