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Dogs can make extraordinary companions for children with autism. Read this article and find out what are the best dogs for Autistic Children:
Some dogs can even perform services that help improve the lives of these children. Some dog breeds have innate skills and are adapted to perform particular tasks. This is the case for dogs that accompany people with special needs, such as children with autism. It has been proven that the emotional bond between child and animal is so close and strong that one cannot be separated from the other and that this connection dramatically improves the mood and health of the child.
If a child in your family has autism and you are considering introducing them to a new friend, you must know the best breed of dogs for autistic children and then make the right decision. Read this article and find out what are the best dogs for Autistic Children:
How can dogs serve children with special needs?
There are three main ways for a dog to play a vital role in your children’s lives.
Assistance dogs:
Some of the tasks that support dogs frequently perform for children include:
- Looking for and finding autistic children who tend to pull away.
- Intervene in cases of self-harm.
- Being attached to autistic children keeping the child away from harm.
- Relieve child anxiety.
Emotional support dogs:
They are primarily responsible for providing love and comfort. In the case of autistic children, these dogs can be very beneficial in calming kids struggling with anxiety and frustration.
Pets:
Research has shown that children with autism spectrum disorder bond closely with their pets and improve their social skills. Many also became more independent after helping to care for their pets.
Important traits for dogs that will be associated with autistic children:
The dogs that will make great companions for autistic children have the following characteristics:
- A gentle dog that knows how to interact with a child without causing injury.
- Large breeds being strong enough, get better adjusted to resist child pulls and pushes without hurting or getting angry.
- Intelligent dogs are more accessible to train than their somewhat slower counterparts.
- Your autistic child will probably love a dog that prefers contact. People-oriented dogs are more likely to bond strongly with your child.
6 Best Dog Breeds for Autistic Children
1. Labrador Retriever:
Labradors are among the best pets for almost every child. Labradors are highly devoted to their owners and love to satisfy their owners. They are pretty gentle, and many are intelligent and relatively easy to train. Labradors vary a lot in size. If you plan to take the larger one, choosing a male rather than a female is usually better. Labrador retrievers are known to be companion, rescue, and assistance dogs. in the life of an autistic child: they create confidence, help reduce anxiety attacks, stimulate imagination and the desire to communicate, and encourage self-control.
2. Golden Retriever:
Golden retrievers are family dogs par excellence. It is also one of the most used breeds as a “service dog” because of its docile, safe, and adaptable personality. They are very affectionate with children and have a highly developed instinct when it comes to emotions. They are similar to Labradors in temperament and character and are also easy to educate.
3. Bernese Mountain Dog:
Bernese mountain dog is an intelligent breed. One of the advantages of this dog with an autistic child is its role as a protector and guardian. Their blend of large dimensions, gentle character, and intellect makes them especially beneficial for autistic children. They like to satisfy their masters, and they are also quite sensitive.
4. Staffordshire Bull Terrier:
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a robust and muscular dog. Still, contrary to its physical appearance, it is very docile and considered one of the best breeds to accompany autistic children. He is faithful, reliable, and has an excellent character. He is very affectionate and obedient. If you train him correctly and give him all your love, he will be the best therapy for the child.
5. Newfoundland:
Newfoundlanders are as prominent as their hearts. Because of his large size, his temperament is calm and, therefore, ideal for an autistic child because it will encourage him to be calm. He is an adorable giant with a relaxed and brilliant temperament.
6. Old English Sheepdog:
Bobtail dogs love their family and are another alternative for children with an autism spectrum disorder. They are usually relatively easygoing and always ready to play and have fun. Also are generally intelligent and easy to train. They are also protective dogs who are not afraid to place themselves between their loved ones and danger.
Conclusion: So, What’s the Best Dog Breed for Autism?
It depends on your family and your autistic child. While these autism service dog breeds are some of the most trusted and tested in helping children with special needs, that doesn’t mean other dog breeds and mixes don’t match.
Make sure you research to find a dog with a good temperament, training ability, and the right level of maintenance and energy for your family. Remember, before allowing a dog in your home and around your child; you must match your child’s personality to the dog you choose.
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