PupkeeperCaution
Are roses toxic to dogs? Caution
Caution. The ASPCA lists roses as non-toxic, but thorns can hurt the mouth and paws, and eating a lot can cause stomach upset or a blockage.
Roses and dogs: key facts
- Verdict
- Caution · Watch at home
- What it can do
- Drooling, pawing at the mouth, not eating, mild stomach upset and cuts or sores in the mouth or on the paws.
- What to do now
- Check your dog's mouth and paws for thorn injuries. All steps
- Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control, ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline. Reviewed 9 October 2026.
What should I do if my dog ate roses?
- Check your dog's mouth and paws for thorn injuries.
- Watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth or an upset stomach.
- Call your vet if your dog won't eat.
- Call your vet if your dog ate a lot of stems, which can cause a blockage.
Don't
- Don't let your dog near insect killers used on rose beds; one, disulfoton, can be life-threatening even in small amounts.
Symptoms to watch for
- Drooling
- Pawing at the mouth
- Not eating
- Mild stomach upset
- Cuts or sores in the mouth or on the paws
Why
Like any flower, roses can cause mild stomach upset. The main risks are the thorns, which can injure the mouth and paws, and large amounts of stems, which can cause a blockage. Moss rose is a different plant and is toxic.
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Rose
- ASPCA: Mother's Day Bouquets: What's Safe for Pets?
- Pet Poison Helpline: Protect Your Pet from Disulfoton
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.