Are Robin Hood Roses Dangerous for Dogs?

The "Robin Hood" rose (Rosa "Robin Hood") is a type of hybrid shrub rose that thrives primarily in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 6 through 9. This hardy plant is a lovely addition to the garden and makes a suitable flowering hedge. While it's considered nontoxic to dogs if eaten, its sharp thorns make it a less-than-ideal choice for a dog-friendly garden.

  1. "Robin Hood" Roses

    • Introduced by Joseph Pemberton in 1927, "Robin Hood" roses are considered resilient shrubs that produce sprays of small, cherry-red to fuchsia-colored flowers. Its blooms are lightly scented and typically 1/2 to 3/4 inches in size, darkening in color over time. Unlike other rose cultivars, it grows well in poor soil and partial shade, spreading to a width of approximately 5 feet and height of 4 feet, according to the National Gardening Association. Not only does it thrive in poor growing conditions and even inclement weather, but it's also considered disease-resistant. Robin Hood roses are less likely to suffer from fungal diseases like powdery mildew and black spot than other, more delicate cultivars.

    Toxicity

    • "Robin Hood" roses and other types of roses are not considered toxic to dogs if ingested, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Unfortunately, this doesn't mean that they aren't dangerous to dogs. These plants have very sharp thorns that can injure your dog's paws, mouth and gastrointestinal tract if touched or eaten, warns the Pet Poison Helpline. In some cases, a bowel obstruction can occur if a large amount of the plant matter is ingested by your dog. If you notice symptoms like drooling, vomiting, a lack of appetite or lethargy, your dog may need veterinary treatment after ingesting "Robin Hood" roses.

    Pesticide Dangers

    • Aphids are a major pest to all members of the Rosa species, including "Robin Hood" roses. Broad-spectrum sprays containing organophosphates, carbonates, and pyrethroids can rid your plants of these pests, but are poisonous to your canine companion, warns the Humane Society of the United States. Disulfoton, in particular, is commonly found in rose-care products and is a type of organophosphate that is highly toxic to dogs when ingested, according to the Pet Poison Helpline. Keep Fido safe by using natural pest-control methods for your roses. Hose off your "Robin Hood" roses regularly or release lady beetles into your garden to remove pests like aphids safely, recommends the University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program.

    Considerations

    • While "Robin Hood" rose blooms and leaves are safe for Fido to nibble on, possibly only causing some minor stomach upset, the thorns on the stems could seriously injure the dog. Even if your pooch doesn't ingest the thorns, it may run through the plants, scratching its skin or even its eyes, requiring a trip to the vet. To protect your dog from such dangers, plant your "Robin Hood" roses in an area of your garden that your dog can't access, cordoned off with fencing. When you cut flowers from your rose bush, remove thorns from their stems before placing them in flower arrangements in your home.