According to Autism Speaks, an organization dedicated to advocacy for those with autism, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to a range of conditions characterized by repetitive behaviors, speech, social skills, and nonverbal communication challenges. It may be worth considering certain dog breeds for your child with autism.
In addition to emotional support dogs and service dogs for people with autism, pet dogs can also offer many therapeutic benefits for children on the autism spectrum. Although plain old pet pups won’t perform special services for your child, they can still help in other ways. For example, they can help alleviate stress, improve social skills, and even boost confidence. Read on to learn more about all the best dog breeds for children with autism.
Characteristics of good dog breeds for children on the autism spectrum
Finding a dog with a calm and gentle disposition is the most important thing to consider when choosing a pet. Your pup should be able to remain calm during challenging moments and be able to withstand a good amount of physical touch. Additionally, the dog must be good with children, patient, and highly trainable. Medium to large breeds are preferred for full-bodied snuggles.
Here are the top breeds for children on the autism spectrum.
Golden Retriever
Sweet, calm, and tolerant, the Golden Retriever is an ideal candidate for children on the autism spectrum. In addition to their family-friendly nature, they are remarkably intelligent. Their intelligence and willingness to please their human companions mean they can easily be trained. These popular pups often work as service, therapy, and emotional support dogs. These radiant, happy dogs are a top-tier choice for your child with ASD.
Labrador Retriever
Devoted and loving, Labrador Retrievers make excellent dogs for children on the autism spectrum. This breed is popular for its affectionate nature and intelligence. This large breed requires plenty of exercise, however, as they are energetic and athletic. They are best suited to families that are around often, as this breed can be prone to separation anxiety. A fenced yard is additionally recommended.
Standard Poodle
Poodles are described as loving, smart, and easy to train. These allergy-friendly pups are incredibly loyal by nature and would make a great addition to a home with children. Additionally, poodles are protective and affectionate. Poodles come in a variety of sizes. A larger-sized standard poodle is recommended to withstand children’s eager tendencies.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Known for their silky coats and happy personality, Bernese Mountain dogs are great kid-friendly dogs. Additionally, their people-pleasing temperament, sensitivity, and large size make them excellent companions for autistic children. It is worth noting that these smiley, silly dogs do shed a lot and are known for drooling. Still, they have the potential to form an incredible bond with your child.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
One of the largest of the toy breeds, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is affectionate and loving. Although small, they are athletic in nature and make great playmates. These tolerant dogs make such great companions, some may even find success working as therapy dogs. They are fairly easy to train and are not too vocal, which may be worth considering if your child is additionally sensitive to auditory stimuli. Because this dog is smaller in size, it is important to remind your youngster of the importance of being gentle with your pup.
Beagle
If you’re looking for a dog that exhibits a friendly and sweet nature but isn’t too large in size, a Beagle may be the right choice for your child on the autism spectrum. These pups make great companions for families with children. They are loving and great playmates. They enjoy greeting every person they meet. Because they are smaller in size, rarely growing larger than 30 pounds, it is important to remind your child to be gentle with your pup. It is also worth noting this type of dog likes to bark, which may not be ideal if your child is more sensitive to sounds.
Boxer
Silly, energetic, and patient, Boxers are widely regarded as one of the top breed choices for children. The combination of breed characteristics can make them especially great for kids with ASD. These happy dogs are medium to large in size, and may feel more manageable as they do not come close to the giant breeds like the Great Dane or Newfoundland. Still, they would be able to withstand a good amount of touch. These athletic dogs require a good amount of exercise and obedience training.
Great Dane
Great Danes, recognized for their size and calm nature, would be an excellent addition to a family with an autistic younger. Many children on the autism spectrum enjoy snuggles, and this gentle giant would easily be able to withstand a large amount of physical touch. They are also very nurturing and protective, which makes this breed a worthy candidate for your home. It is worth considering the amount of food these large dogs require, but they are also laid back and do not require as much exercise as other energetic breeds.
Newfoundland
Lovable like a giant teddy bear, Newfoundlands make fantastic companions for children with autism. This extra-large sized breed can grow to be anywhere from 100 to 150 pounds, making them gentle giants that are available for snuggles, pets, and play sessions with children. They are prone to shedding and drooling, but these factors pale in comparison to the bond that your sweet-natured Newfie can have with your child.
Old English Sheepdog
Old English Sheepdogs are another great option for children with ASD. Originally used by farmers for herding sheep, Old English Sheepdogs are easily recognized by their shaggy coats. These large floofs are easy-going, protective, and always ready to play. They are friendly with all members of their family and make great companions. These pups do shed and require frequent grooming to keep their coats healthy and free from tangles.
Now that you know all about the best dog breeds for children on the autism spectrum, read up on the differences between therapy, working, service, and emotional support dogs.
