If you’re looking for a companion animal that can provide comfort, love and support to adults with autism, a dog is a great choice. But before you rush out to adopt or purchase a furry friend, there are a few things to consider.
First, you should think about the specific needs and preferences of the autistic adult. Some dogs may have higher energy levels, while others may be more prone to anxiety. It’s also important to consider the size and breed of the dog, as well as the living space available.
Another important factor is the individual’s lifestyle and level of responsibility. Dogs require regular exercise, grooming and medical care, so it’s important to ensure that the individual is able to commit to these needs. Training is also important, as dogs can help with calming and socialization if they are properly trained.
Are you an autistic adult looking for a loyal and supportive companion? Or perhaps you’re a caregiver interested in learning more about the benefits of companion animals for adults with autism. Are you curious about the different breeds of dogs that are best suited for autism support? Whatever your questions or interests may be, keep reading to discover more about how dogs can positively impact the lives of autistic adults.
9 Best Dogs For Autistic Adults
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The product is ideal for providing a safe and secure play area for babies/toddlers both indoors and outdoors.
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This product is ideal for both adults and pets as a large, comfortable bean bag bed.
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This product is ideal for childproofing interior and exterior doors, while still allowing adults to open the door from both sides.
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This product is ideal for sensory play, game mat set, orthopedic game mat for kids and adults, and dog lovers.
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The product is ideal for protecting sofas and beds from moisture while providing a soft, comfortable surface.
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The product is ideal for protecting hands from bites and scratches during handling of animals like dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and snakes.
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This product is ideal for stress relief and fidgeting, with LED lights and spiky texture for added sensory stimulation.
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Ideal for individuals who benefit from sensory input or need oral motor stimulation, such as those with autism or ADHD.
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It is ideal for potty training pets and preventing accidents, as well as being waterproof, non-slip, and reusable.
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1. Baiyi Soft Mesh Play Yard With Gate
Create a fun and safe play area for your little one with this spacious playpen. With an external size of 50x50x27inch / 127x127x68cm, there is plenty of space for toys, friends, and pets to join in on the fun. The play area is large enough to accommodate both you and your child comfortably, whether you're indoors or outdoors.
Constructed with high-end quality and a sturdy structure, this playpen is made of resistant-duty encryption Oxford cloth material and strong fabric net sidings that are tougher, more durable, and BPA-free. The 4 TPR suction cup bases further strengthen the stability of the playpen and make it strong enough to bear heavy loads like adults.
With a 360° full vision design and visible, breathable mesh side walls, you can keep an eye on your child while they play and explore. The external gate zipper design allows you to interact with your baby at any time and free your hands to do other things.
This playpen is the perfect happy paradise for your child to explore, learn to move, and play safely. It keeps them away from hazardous areas and ensures that they do not get lost.
Assembly and cleaning are a breeze with this playpen. The rust-proof alloy pipes and ABS plastic connection make it easy to disassemble and assemble, while the waterproof fabric bottom is easy to clean. Please note that the bottom does not come with padding, so you may need to purchase an additional baby play mat.
- Spacious play area for toys, friends, and pets
- High-end quality and sturdy structure
- 360° full vision design for easy supervision
- External gate zipper design for easy interaction with your child
- Easy to assemble and clean
- – Bottom does not come with padding
2. Human-Sized Bean Bag Bed For Pets
Experience the ultimate comfort with this large bean bag bed that is designed to provide a cozy space for people. The bean bag bed measures 72"x48"x10" and can even fit more than one adult. The rim and bottom are filled with high-resilience sponge that is thick and fluffy, providing excellent support for the body.
The human-sized beanbag bed features a luxurious faux fur cover made of premium fibers that are thick and warm enough to give a great skin feeling. The ultra-soft surface is ideal for resisting the cold and pairs perfectly with a furry blanket for a good rest.
Designed with ergonomics in mind, the raised rim around the bed provides a sense of security and excellent support for the neck and head. The thicken waved bottom foam prevents people from lying too close to the ground and provides strong support for the spine. Tucking your hands and feet under the pillow border can also help reduce stress and anxiety.
Setting up the bean bag dog bed for humans is a breeze. Simply remove the vacuum packing bag and wait for it to expand. Pat and shake it to make it completely fluffy before use. The cushion bed has a non-slip PVC dot fabric bottom that keeps it easily fixed to any floors. The zippered fur cover is removable and machine-washable for easy care and maintenance.
This human-used bean bag pet bed has a versatile design that can be added to the decoration of any room. It can be used as a napping bed or sleeping mat, providing warmth and relaxation. The side carrying handle allows you to take it with you anywhere you need it, from the bedroom to the living room, or even in the office.
- Large size can fit more than one adult
- High-resilience sponge provides excellent support
- Luxurious faux fur cover is thick and warm
- Ergonomic design provides support for neck, head, and spine
- Non-slip bottom keeps the bed fixed to any floors
- Removable and machine-washable cover for easy care
- Versatile design can be used in any room
- Side carrying handle for easy transport
3. Glidelok Metal Top Lock For Child Safety.
The GlideLok Child Safety Door Top Lock is an essential childproofing system made of high-quality painted metal that is designed to prevent toddlers from opening doors leading to unsafe areas in your home. It works on most hinged doors up to 1-3/8" thick or up to 1-13/16" thick if the spacer bar is removed. It can be used on interior/exterior doors, French doors, and doors with levers, knobs, and large or uniquely shaped handles. However, it does not work on any type of sliding door on a track, such as bifold doors, pocket doors, or sliding glass doors. It also does not work on metal door frames, patio screen doors, storm doors, or double doors that swing both ways.
The GlideLok requires 1 screw (included) to be drilled into your door frame. If you are installing it on an exterior door that opens inward into your home, please note that the screw will be drilled on the exterior/outside part of your door frame. The GlideLok has holes for the possible attachment of a hook or rod (not included), which is helpful for especially tall doors/shorter adults. If you do not attach a rod, you must be able to reach the top of your door to slide the GlideLok back and forth.
Unlike door knob covers or other door lever locks, the GlideLok sits on top of your door like a saddle, so it's completely out of reach and your child can't dismantle it. It is also unobtrusive and blends in with your decor. Most people won't even realize it's there. Adults can conveniently lock and unlock the door from both sides, unlike other types of door lever handle locks. You will not get trapped in a room while your child wanders around the house alone. If you don't need it locked for a period of time, simply leave the GlideLok disengaged and you won't have to unlock it every time.
- Made of high-quality painted metal that is durable and long-lasting
- Convenient for adults to lock and unlock the door from both sides
- Unobtrusive design that blends in with your decor
- Prevents toddlers from opening doors leading to unsafe areas in your home
- – Does not work on sliding doors, metal door frames, patio screen doors, storm doors, or double doors that swing both ways
- – Requires drilling a screw into your door frame for installation
4. Lucky Paws Orthopedic Puzzle Play Mat Set.
ORTOTO dog mats are designed to be suitable for any size dog, from Akita to Poodle and beyond. The mats are made with high-quality PVC that is free from BPA and Phthalates, ensuring a safe and comfortable surface for your furry friend. The mats feature a gentle massage to support your dog's paws and have a non-slippery base for optimal stability during playtime. These mats are water-resistant and easy to clean, making maintenance a breeze. You can simply wipe away any moisture or spills or clean off spots and stains with water and mild detergent. It is important to note that these mats should not be dried under direct sunlight or on heating devices and should not be put in washing machines or dishwashers. Additionally, the mats are designed to be 100% waterproof, making them perfect for pets who love to play in water. Whether you're using them indoors or outdoors, these mats are perfect for all seasons and will provide a comfortable and safe space for your furry friend to play and relax.
- Suitable for any dog size from Akita to Poodle and beyond
- Made with high-quality PVC that is free from BPA and Phthalates
- Gentle massage feature supports your dog's paws
- Non-slippery base provides optimal stability during playtime
- Water-resistant and easy to clean
- 100% waterproof design
- Suitable for all seasons
5. Soft Waterproof Pet Bed Blanket (Cream/beige, 82×102")
Protect your furniture with this premium waterproof protector, guaranteed to prevent almost all types of moisture and liquids from leaking through. Ideal for pet owners who want to share happy times with their furry friends without worrying about accidental spills.
Suitable for all types of furniture, this super soft and luxurious blanket is perfect for sofas and beds. It is reversible, providing two colors to match your furniture and two soft velvet options to choose from: minky velvet and coral fleece.
Cleaning this protector is a breeze. Simply machine wash it in cold water and tumble dry it on low. Plus, if you experience any issues, you can take advantage of our 100% money-back guarantee. At Ameritex, your satisfaction is our first priority.
- Guaranteed protection against moisture and liquids
- Suitable for all types of furniture
- Reversible design provides two color options and two soft velvet choices
- Easy to clean with a simple machine wash and tumble dry
- Customer satisfaction is a top priority with a 100% money-back guarantee
6. Bite-Proof Animal Handling Gloves
The cowhide material used in this product is thick and sturdy, ensuring durability and enhanced protection. The soft cotton lining adds to the breathability of the product, making it comfortable for use. The gloves are designed to protect your fingers, hands, and arms from bites and scratches while feeding, training, grooming, or bathing animals. The gloves are versatile and can be used not only for handling animals like dogs, cats, reptiles, snakes, parrots, lizards, etc., but also for welding, planting, and gardening work.
The gloves are 60 cm/23.6 in in length and 13.5 cm/5.3 in in width, making them suitable for most men and women. The gloves are long enough to provide ample protection to your arms. If you are not satisfied with the product, please feel free to contact the seller for a replacement or a full refund.
- Thick and sturdy cowhide material
- Soft cotton lining for breathability
- Versatile for handling animals and other activities
- Provides ample protection to arms
- – None
7. Led Spike Chew Ball – The Ultimate Stress Ball!
The package includes 36 pieces of LED fidget spiky balls, available in 4 different colors. Each spiky ball measures approximately 6.5 cm/ 2.56 inches in diameter and comes with a cord, making it easy to play with. These flashing spiky balls are made of high-quality soft rubber material that is very elastic, reliable, and safe. In addition, they are odorless and the soft spiky surface is skin-friendly, which can be touched without any fear of hurting.
These multifunctional luminous balls have bright LED lights that make them perfect for various night games. They can also be used to massage palms with their soft nails, which is a great way to relieve stress. These LED bouncy stress balls are suitable for young people, old people, or anyone with weak hand and finger dexterity.
In addition to being a great stress reliever, these spiked balls can also be used to add a touch of light to your party supplies. They are perfect for Christmas parties, baby showers, birthday parties, carnivals, concerts, and more, and will bring you a lot of fun.
- 36 pieces of LED fidget spiky balls in 4 different colors
- High-quality soft rubber material that is very elastic, reliable, and safe
- Odorless and skin-friendly soft spiky surface
- Bright LED lights make them perfect for night games
- Can be used to massage palms and relieve stress
- Perfect for various occasions to add a touch of light to your party supplies
8. Munchables Military Dog Tags Sensory Chew Necklace (Black)
Munchables sensory chews have been recommended by the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists as a potential option for clients who chew. These chew necklaces can have regulating effects on the sensory system, reducing fidgeting and promoting attention and focus. With a 90-day chew guarantee, Munchables is a Canadian-owned and operated company that prioritizes safety, durability, and style in their chewable jewelry. Each necklace features a breakaway clasp and is made of 100% safe food-grade silicone that has undergone extensive safety testing, so you can trust that it's safe for your child to use. Munchables can help regulate behavior by providing a safe alternative to chewing on shirts, finger nails, pencils, or other items, as well as by aiding with anxiety and stress relief. It can also function as a sensory toy for individuals with autism or ADHD and help stop oral fixation habits such as thumb sucking, nail biting, or finger sucking. Munchables chewelry is stylish and durable, made of tear-resistant silicone that is suitable for mild and moderate chewing. For more aggressive chewers, Munchables also offers chewing necklaces designed specifically for them, such as the SUPER CHEW Tear Drop, SUPER CHEW Krystal, Donut, Scribbles, Yummy Gummy, or Tire Chew Necklaces. However, please note that no chewy necklace is indestructible, and it's important to inspect all Munchables chewable necklaces, bracelets, zipper pulls, or pencil toppers for signs of wear. These products are suitable for children aged 3 years and older.
- Munchables sensory chews are recommended by the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists for clients who chew
- Made with 100% safe food-grade silicone that is extensively safety tested
- Every Munchable sensory chew necklace features a breakaway clasp
- Can regulate behavior by providing a safe alternative to chewing on other items and aid with anxiety and stress relief
- Stylish and durable chewelry made of tear-resistant silicone
- Munchables offers different chewing necklaces designed specifically for more aggressive chewers
- Suitable for children aged 3 years and older
- Comes with a 90-day chew guarantee
- – None
9. Petpads: Durable & Waterproof Training Mats
The JdPet Extra Large Pee Pads for Dogs are made of four layers of high-quality materials to ensure ultimate comfort and maximum absorbency. The top layer is made of 100% polyester knitting surface, which is soft and comfortable for your pets to rest on. The middle layer is super absorbent, while the breathable waterproof PUL inner layer prevents any leakage. The bottom layer is made of 100% polyester knitting fabric with anti-slip silica gel to prevent the pad from sliding around.
The anti-slip silica gel on the bottom side of the fabric ensures that the pad stays in place and prevents any slips or falls. This leak-proof, slip-resistant backing keeps your floors dry and your pets safe.
These pads are highly absorbent and have excellent odor control, making them perfect for extended indoor stays. They prevent tracking and protect your floors and rugs from any accidents.
These extra large pee pads have a range of uses, including house-breaking and potty training puppies, protecting crates and car seats during transport, whelping, incontinence, and for sick/older/diabetic dogs. They also protect furniture, wood floors, rugs, and carpets. They are also perfect for lining kennels and playpens, placing under food bowls, and litter boxes. If you have an elderly cat who sometimes misses the litter box, this pad can be a great solution to catch the urine.
JdPet takes pride in producing top-quality products that are tested by pets and their owners before production. The silica gel on the backing, triple stitch binding, and multi-layered approach to protection ensures clean floors and a stain-free home. The company offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can trust that you and your fur baby are in good hands.
- Made of high-quality materials for maximum comfort and absorbency
- Anti-slip silica gel on the bottom prevents slipping and sliding
- Excellent odor control and absorbency for extended indoor stays
- Protects floors, rugs, furniture, and carpets from accidents
- Has a range of uses, from house-breaking to elderly pet care
- Triple stitch binding and multi-layered approach to protection ensures clean floors
Best Dogs For Autistic Adults FAQs
Are there any potential drawbacks or challenges to having a dog as a support animal for an autistic adult?
Yes, there can be potential drawbacks or challenges to having a dog as a support animal for an autistic adult. Firstly, the cost of owning and caring for a dog can be quite high, including expenses such as food, grooming, veterinary care, and training. Additionally, dogs require daily exercise and attention, which can be difficult for some autistic adults who may struggle with socialization and communication.
Furthermore, some autistic adults may have sensory sensitivities to certain textures, sounds, or smells, which can make it difficult to live with a dog. For example, some dogs shed heavily, which can trigger allergic reactions or sensory overload. Additionally, some dogs may bark frequently or have other behavioral issues that can be challenging for autistic adults to manage.
Lastly, some autistic adults may have difficulty navigating public spaces with a dog, as not all establishments or public transportation systems are accommodating to service animals. This can limit the ability of autistic adults to travel and participate in activities outside of the home.
Overall, while a dog can provide many benefits as a support animal for an autistic adult, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks and challenges before making a decision.
How can a dog be trained to support an autistic adult's unique needs?
Dogs can be trained to support autistic adults in a variety of ways. One of the most common ways is through service dog training. These dogs are trained to perform specific tasks that can help autistic adults to navigate everyday life. For example, service dogs can be trained to interrupt repetitive behaviors, provide deep pressure therapy, and alert their owners to potential dangers.
In addition to service dog training, dogs can also be trained to provide emotional support to autistic adults. This type of training focuses on developing a strong bond between the dog and their owner. Dogs can be trained to recognize and respond to changes in their owner's behavior, provide comfort during times of stress, and help their owner to regulate their emotions.
It's important to note that not all dogs are suitable for this type of training. Dogs that are easily distracted or have a high prey drive may not be well-suited for service dog training. It's also important to work with a qualified trainer who has experience working with autistic individuals and their unique needs. With the right training and support, however, dogs can be a valuable companion and support system for autistic adults.
How can dogs benefit autistic adults and their daily lives?
Dogs can benefit autistic adults in numerous ways, and their presence can significantly improve their daily lives. First and foremost, dogs can provide emotional support and help reduce anxiety levels in autistic adults. Since autistic adults often have difficulty communicating and expressing themselves, they may find it easier to open up to a dog who will not judge them. Additionally, dogs can serve as a source of comfort and companionship, which can be especially important for autistic adults who may struggle with social interactions.
Moreover, dogs can also improve the physical health of autistic adults. Taking care of a dog requires daily exercise, which can encourage autistic adults to be more active and improve their overall fitness levels. Additionally, walking a dog can provide a sense of routine and structure, which can be beneficial for autistic adults who may struggle with organization and time management.
Overall, the presence of a dog can have a positive impact on the daily lives of autistic adults, providing emotional support, companionship, and improving physical health. It is important to note that the benefits of dogs may vary from person to person, and it is essential to consider individual needs and preferences when deciding to introduce a dog into someone's life.
What breeds of dogs are best suited for autistic adults?
There is no specific breed of dog that is considered the best for autistic adults as it depends on the individual's needs and preferences. However, certain breeds are known for being particularly helpful in providing emotional support and companionship. These include Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Poodles, and German Shepherds. These breeds are often trained as service dogs for people with autism to help in a variety of ways, such as providing comfort during stressful situations, assisting with daily tasks, and promoting social interaction. It is important to note that not all dogs are suitable for service work, and it is essential to work with a qualified trainer to ensure that the dog is well trained and capable of providing the necessary support. Ultimately, the most important factor when choosing a dog for an autistic adult is finding a dog that is compatible with the individual's personality and lifestyle.
What specific tasks can a dog perform for an autistic adult?
Dogs can be trained to perform a variety of tasks to assist autistic adults. One of the most important tasks is to provide emotional support and companionship. Many autistic adults struggle with social interactions and may feel isolated or anxious. A dog can provide comfort and a sense of security, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
In addition to emotional support, dogs can also be trained to perform practical tasks. For example, they can help to keep the autistic adult safe by alerting them to potential dangers or by guiding them away from hazards. They can also provide assistance with everyday tasks such as fetching items, opening doors, and turning on lights.
Another important task is to help the autistic adult to manage their emotions. Dogs can be trained to detect signs of anxiety or distress and to provide calming support. They can also be trained to interrupt repetitive or self-injurious behaviors.
Overall, dogs can provide a great deal of support and assistance to autistic adults. With the right training and support, they can help to improve quality of life and promote greater independence.