Rose Hip for Dogs

Rosehip is known to many mainly as tea or jam, but it's also increasingly appearing in dog food. No wonder, since this small red fruit brings a remarkable nutrient density with it. We explain what rosehip actually is, why it's interesting for canine nutrition, and how it's typically used.

What is rosehip?

The rosehip is the fruit of the dog rose and, after harvesting, is dried, deseeded and usually processed into powder or flakes. In this form it stores well and can easily be mixed into food. Rosehip is best known for its high vitamin C content, alongside which it also provides secondary plant compounds such as flavonoids, plus small amounts of B vitamins and minerals.

Because it occurs naturally and requires no elaborate processing, rosehip counts as an uncomplicated, plant-based raw material that combines well with other ingredients. In flavour it's mildly fruity and tart, making it a pleasant addition in many recipes without dominating the taste of the food.

Why rosehip for dogs?

Unlike humans, a dog's body can produce vitamin C itself, yet at certain life stages or under increased strain, additional intake via food can still be worthwhile. The secondary plant compounds contained in rosehip further supplement the nutrient profile and are associated with general cell protection.

Rosehip also plays a role in terms of flavour: many dogs happily accept it, which makes it a practical addition in recipes that rely on plant-based supplementary substances. Rosehip is also frequently combined with other plant-based raw materials, such as herbs or roots, to cover as broad a spectrum of natural plant compounds as possible.

Rosehip in canine nutrition

In finished recipes, rosehip powder is usually combined in small amounts with other plant-based ingredients to round off a food's nutrient profile. As a standalone ingredient it rarely plays the main role, but rather supplements other components.

If you find rosehip on a food's ingredients list, it's an indication that plant-based additions were also considered in the recipe. Especially in combination with other natural ingredients, rosehip helps ensure a food brings plant-based nutrients alongside animal-based components. You'll find more raw materials and their significance for canine nutrition in our raw materials lexicon.