Life can be more challenging for families with children diagnosed with autism. According to US Service Animals, it affects at least 1% of the total population. Thanks to some dogs, which can provide a special kind of support and companionship.

There are certain dog breeds for autism. These dogs are there to provide love, emotional support, and a sense of security for people on the spectrum. Let us walk you through different dog breeds which are ideal for people with autism. It is essential to consider the dog's temperament, energy, tolerance, patience, and level of empathy.

What are the benefits of dogs for autism?

Below are some of the advantages one could have just by having dogs in our life. Dog owners would understand the great impact these furry friends have in their lives. With or without autism, one can’t deny the benefits we can get from owning dogs.

Provides Emotional Support

Dogs are best at sensing emotions. Notice how dogs would approach you when you are feeling down, stressed, or emotionally unstable. With their presence, individuals with autism can feel more relaxed. These dogs also help reduce, if not prevent, meltdowns. When special kids are feeling anxious or stressed out, their emotional support can help them calm down.

Improves Social Interaction

Some individuals with autism find it difficult to socialize with other people. The interaction causes them great stress. Having a dog around, their social skills could improve. They are more likely to open up and engage. In addition, they become more eager to connect with others. Thanks to the bond that they develop with these dogs.

Companionship with routines

Autistic individuals often function based on certain routines. Having a dog around, they are perfect companions in these routines. They are also encouraged to move more often than they usually do. Individuals can learn to walk the dog in nearby parks and feed or groom them.

Enhances the sensory

Just petting the dog already helps improve a person’s senses. When dogs snuggle around these individuals, they provide a soothing and relaxing feeling to people with autism.

Best Dogs for Autism

Now that you are already aware of the benefits these dogs provide autistic individuals, learn which breeds are the best ones to get. At Stokeshire, these breeds provide emotional support. These are not service dogs. The latter requires a special kind of training. On the other hand, emotional support dogs are those whose presence is enough to make an individual feel better.

Goldendoodle

Temperament:

Friendly, sociable, and patient nature
highly-intelligent and can be trained easily making them ideal for therapy work as well.
has a calm demeanor and can be around children. This breed is also ideal for families with autistic children.

Characteristics:

medium to large-sized dogs
have high tolerance
eager to please its owner

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Australian Mountain Doodle

Temperament:

Highly intelligent, loyal, and attentive dogs
Have a high level of empathy
Develops a strong bond with owners

Characteristics:

medium-sized dogs with coats in different colors.
higher energy dogs requiring regular exercise

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Poodle

Temperament:

intelligent, trainable, and have a natural inclination toward empathy
calm and sensitive nature
Obedient dogs can be trained easily

Characteristics:

hypoallergenic coats, which can be beneficial for individuals with allergies.
poodles require regular grooming to maintain their distinctive coat.
Breeds come in different sizes, including standard, miniature, and toy, providing options to suit individual preferences and living situations.

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Bernese Mountain Dog

Temperament:

Calm, gentle, and patient nature
Has a strong desire to please their owners.
loyal and protective, providing a sense of security and comfort.

Characteristics:

Known for their thick, tri-colored coat
Needs regular exercise and grooming due to their long coat.

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Sheepadoodle

Temperament

Intelligent breeds that can be trained easily
Great to be around children and families
Can be goofy and have a sense of humor

Characteristics
- From a family of herding breeds of dogs; may herd children
- Requires grooming maintenance

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Deciding on the right breed for individuals with autism requires planning because it is such an important decision. One should carefully research the temperament and characteristics of these dogs. Check which of them is the perfect fit depending on the individual's condition, and needs.

Remember that each autistic individual has their own unique needs. Similarly, each dog breed has its special characteristics and temperament. To nurture a relationship between animals and humans, they should complement each other. In addition, it would also be best to seek the recommendation of professionals for better guidance. There are plenty of organizations and responsible dog breeders willing to assist. At the end of the day, we all want to improve the quality of life for people with autism.