This type of dog is also known under names like Autism Service Dogs and Autism Dogs. As the name suggests the Autism Service Dogs are used by persons who are placed in the Autism Spectrum. The Autism Service Dogs are typically assigned to children but there is an ongoing movement to make them more accessible to adults as well. It is important to understand that the person benefiting from the Autism Service Dogs should be able to care for them properly or have a parent help them care for the animal.
Training an Autism Service Dog for a child at home is possible but you should consult your preferred mental health specialist in advance. Depending on the case, introducing a dog to your child with Autism can have a significant positive impact on them. The Autism Service Dogs are trained to recognize repetitive behaviors and interrupt them, recognize anxiety, panic attacks, and ground their handler. Sensory overload, getting lost and lack of focus are frequently encountered problems with children with Autism. Having physical contact with the Autism Service Dog should help calm and focus your child as well as create a sense of security. Moreover, establishing a strong connection with the dog and transforming it into their best friend should open them to making new friends. Also, teaching and practicing tricks with the dog should help develop their verbal skills.
Training an Autism Service Dog with your child can build confidence, routine, self-esteem, good habits, and improve their social skills. Autism Service Dogs can help their users meet new people in the park, for example, initiate a conversation with other dog owners, and attain a sense of responsibility. People on the Autism spectrum can benefit from the loyal and loving support of their animal without any fear of judgment. Many parents have expressed that they feel calmer and more confident about their child interacting with a dog. Parents have reported that their children have a more balanced temper after introducing a dog in their life.
The training can take up to a year and you may want to choose breeds like Poodle, Golden Retriever, Saint Bernard, Labradoodle, Bernese Mountain Dog, Newfoundland, Samoyed, and Beagle. There are no restrictions set in stone, but you generally want a dog that is tolerant of rough play, has a calm and patient character, and is food-motivated.
We have an Autism Companion Training Course that should help reinforce your children’s bond to your pet and allow you to build upon it with further training. The course can be found here: https://www.servicedogtrainingschool.org/online-school/companion-dog-training-autism-children