If you’re looking for a companion and support animal for an autistic child, a dog might be the answer. It is said that service dogs can offer emotional support, physical assistance, and help reduce anxiety, among other things. However, before buying a dog, there are several factors that you need to consider to ensure that it is the right fit for your child.
First, think about your child's activity level and lifestyle. Some dog breeds may require more exercise, training, and attention than others. Second, consider the dog's temperament and personality. You want to find a calm and patient dog that can deal with unexpected situations and has a good disposition. Third, keep in mind the financial and time commitments that come with owning a pet. Dogs need proper food, toys, medical care, and training, which can be costly.
Are you wondering what specific breeds are most suitable for autistic children? Or do you want to know how dogs can support social skills and communication in children with autism? Additionally, if you already have a dog, find out what qualities and training your dog needs to have to become a service dog. All of these questions and more will be answered in this article. So, keep reading to learn more about the benefits and considerations of dogs for autistic children.
9 Best Dogs For Autistic Children
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Ideal for keeping pets and kids contained within a specific area without the need for drilling or permanent installation.
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2
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Ideal for securing doorways, stairs, and kitchens to keep toddlers, pets, and puppies safe indoors.
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3
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Ideal for keeping babies and toddlers safe by blocking off stairs and other areas of the home.
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4
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This product is ideal for keeping children safe and secure in stairways and hallways.
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5
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It is ideal for ensuring child and pet safety in areas such as stairs, doorways, and kitchens with pressure mount installation.
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6
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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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7
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This product is ideal for pet training and communication with 30 second record and playback features. It also makes a fun gift.
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8
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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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9
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This product is ideal for securing sliding windows in homes with children, toddlers, and pets.
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1. Pet-Proof & Baby-Safe Extra-Wide Gate
The Adjustable Extra Wide Baby Gate with included extensions is the perfect solution to keep your baby or pet safe. The gate can be expanded from 53-57.5 inches wide openings and stands 30 inches tall. The walk-thru gate with a 19.6 inches swing door makes it easier for mothers to walk through while holding a baby. Please measure before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.
This safety gate uses double locking technology for better security. It is safe for babies ages from 6-36 months. The gate is perfect for kids or pets to limit their access and keep them safe. Adults can easily unlock and lift the handle up by one hand but it is difficult for children.
The Baby Gate is automatic and multi-functional. The gate will close automatically when the handle is released. No need to worry about forgetting to lock the gate. The double-sided design allows you to open it from both directions for convenience. It is suited for stairs, hallway, doorways, kitchen, living room, and any open space.
The pressure-mounted gate is quick to set up and uninstall in 5 minutes without additional hardware or tools. 4 spindle rods let you adjust the top and bottom independently. Please note that a gap between the gate latch and the frame is NOT a defect NOR bent. Please do not cut the elastic rope until the gate lines up with the latch successfully and becomes secure.
The sturdy and heavy-duty metal construction of this gate can defend up to 100 pounds impacts. The proper 2 inches distance between the vertical bars can prevent your babies and pets from squeezing out or getting their heads caught in.
- Adjustable to fit 53-57.5 inches wide openings
- Double locking technology for better security
- Automatic and multi-functional
- Quick and easy installation without additional hardware or tools
- Sturdy and heavy-duty metal construction can defend up to 100 pounds impacts
- – May require adjustments for a proper fit
- – Elastic rope may need to be adjusted for a secure fit
2. Extra Tall Swing Baby Gate For Safety
The extra wide tall baby pet gate is designed with a 180°two-way opening that allows easy entry and exit in both directions. It also closes automatically when the handle is released, making it convenient for parents to pass through with one hand. Made of thick double carbon steel pipe, the gate is durable and safe for both babies and pets. The spacing between the round tubes is only 2.08 inches, making it an effective pet gate as well. The gate can withstand 180 pounds of pull after manual testing.
This gate is versatile and adjustable, with multiple size extensions and adjustable bolts. The height of the gate is 37.4 inches, and the width can be adjusted from 29.13 to 76.37 inches. It can be used as a toddler safety gate for stairs, doorways, and hallways to prevent babies, children, or pets from climbing over.
The baby gate walk-through handle design is easy for parents to open, with a double-locking option in the handle to ensure optimal security. The gate is easy to install with 4 adjustable pressure bolts, with no tools required and no damage to your house wall. Installing the gate only requires one or two extensions, making it easy and stable.
- 180°two-way opening design allows easy entry and exit in both directions
- Closes automatically for convenience
- Made of thick double carbon steel pipe for durability and safety
- Spacing between round tubes is only 2.08 inches, making it effective as a pet gate
- Versatile and adjustable with multiple size extensions and adjustable bolts
- Double-locking option in the handle ensures optimal security
- Easy to install with 4 adjustable pressure bolts
- – None that we could find
3. Regalo Extra Tall Walk Thru Baby Gate Kit.
The Extra Tall Safety Gate stands at 36 inches tall and can expand to fit openings between 29-36.5 inches wide, making it perfect for doorways, hallways, and the bottom of stairs. However, please note that this gate will not fit openings between 34-35 inches. Before purchase, it is important to measure the opening to ensure a proper fit.
The gate features a pressure mount design that is quick and easy to set up. It comes with a 4-inch wide extension kit and 4 pressure mount spindle rods, allowing for adjustable installation. The gate can also be quickly removed from the opening for easy storage.
Constructed with an all-steel design, this gate is both durable and convenient. It is certified to meet JPMA and ASTM standards, ensuring its safety and reliability. The gate also includes multiple safety-lock features, four wall cups for added security, and mounting hardware.
Not only is this gate perfect for children aged 6-36 months, it is also great for pets too. Its walk-through door makes it easy to use for adults, while keeping little ones and furry friends safely contained.
Please note that before installation, there will be a gap between the gate latch and the frame. This is NOT a defect or a bend in the gate, and will be eliminated once the gate is properly installed.
- Extra tall design provides added safety and security
- Adjustable installation with extension kit and spindle rods
- All-steel construction ensures durability
- Certified to meet JPMA and ASTM standards for safety
- Includes multiple safety-lock features and wall cups for added security
- Walk-through door for easy use by adults
- Suitable for both children and pets
- – Will not fit openings between 34-35 inches
4. Swing Through Baby Gate For Hallways & Stairs
Looking for a durable and convenient baby gate that can keep your little one safe and secure? Look no further than this Extra Tall and Wide gate, which is perfect for use in stairways and openings between 24-40.5 inches wide. Standing at 36 inches tall, this gate is designed to meet the needs of parents who want to ensure their children are safe and secure at all times.
This versatile gate can be used at the top or bottom of stairs, in doorways and hallways, making it a great choice for parents who need a gate that can adapt to their changing needs. The gate is adjustable, and can be quickly removed from the opening when not in use, making it easy to store away when you don't need it.
Built to last, this gate is made from high-quality steel that is both durable and convenient. The walk-through door makes it easy to get in and out of the gate, while the hardware mounted design ensures added security for your little one. The safety-lock feature means you can be confident that your child is safe and secure at all times, making this gate a great choice for children aged 6-24 months.
- Durable and convenient all steel design
- Walk-through door for easy access
- Hardware mounted for added security
- Adjustable and easy to remove for storage
- Includes safety-lock feature
- – May not fit larger openings over 40.5 inches wide
5. Easysecure Walk-Through Baby Gate
Parents who prioritize their child's safety will appreciate this baby gate's unique design and multiple installation methods. With both pressure-mounted and hardware-mounted options available, it's easy to install and move around without screws and brackets. For the safest installation, parents recommend the hardware-mounted method, which allows for a bolted installation and can be placed anywhere in the home, including the top of stairs. The 20.07in ultra-wide revolving door makes it easy to walk through, while the 2.16in ultra-narrow gate spacing effectively prevents accidental pinches and prevents pets from passing. Made from sleek steel, this 30-inch baby gate with door is larger in diameter and more durable, making it sturdy enough to bear the impact of 180 pounds.
This pressure-mounted baby gate also includes a double-sided auto-close feature, which automatically closes the gate when the handle is released and can be opened from both sides. The gate for stairs also includes a Hold Open feature, which keeps the gate open and allows for easy walk-through without always opening and closing. For added safety, the gate features a double-lock safety release that makes it difficult for toddlers to open but easy for adults to operate with one hand and pass through quickly. This gate is safe for curious crawlers as it blocks them at the top of stairs.
This baby gate is versatile and can fit small or wide openings, from 25.59 inches to 84.65 inches, and additional baby gate extensions are available to extend the width of the gate for other spaces in the home. Suitable for living room kitchen doorways and stairs, this baby gate is an excellent choice for parents who prioritize their child's safety.
- Two installation methods available for convenience
- 20.07in ultra-wide revolving door for easy walk-through
- 2.16in ultra-narrow gate spacing to prevent accidental pinches and pet access
- Double-sided auto-close feature for easy use
- Double-lock safety release for added security
- Suitable for small or wide openings
- Additional extensions available
6. 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
7. Talkie Paws – 8 Color Voice Buttons For Pets
Experience a whole new level of fun and interaction with this 30 Second Clear Recording Button! This amazing device allows you to record up to 30 seconds of clear sound, which you can use to create sound effects or record other sounds. Its small size makes it very portable, making it perfect for family outings and picnics! With its practicality and fun features, it's definitely a must-have for every family!
The Record button is a great way to add interactivity to your life. You can record simple words and sentences such as "want to play", "want to eat", "want to drink", "daddy", "mum", or anything else you want to say. You can even use it to lead your pet to interact with you or play snatch-and-grab games with your friends. It's a great way to add more fun and entertainment to your life!
Using the 30 Second Clear Recording Button is very easy. Simply press the 'REC' button to start recording when you hear a beeping sound, and release it when you're done. You'll hear 2 beeps to signify the end of recording. Then, press the button to hear your recorded sound. It's that simple!
This button is also a great gift idea for anyone who loves to have fun and interact with others. It offers a lot of unexpected entertainment and interaction, such as communication training with pets, pranks between friends, and much more. It's a great way to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones! Plus, the package includes 8 different colors of buttons, including rose, purple, orange, pink, blue, red, yellow, and light green.
- Records up to 30 seconds of clear sound
- Small and portable, perfect for family outings and picnics
- Adds interactivity and fun to your life
- Very easy to use
- Comes in 8 different colors
- Great gift idea for anyone who loves to have fun and interact with others
- Offers unexpected entertainment and interaction, such as communication training with pets and pranks between friends
- Helps create unforgettable memories with your loved ones
- – Batteries are not included in the package
8. 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
9. Waowao Childproof Window Guard – Peace Of Mind
The child proof window guard is easy to install without drilling or damaging walls and windows. The guard uses the reaction force between the guard and the contact surface for sturdy support. The length of the four bolts can be adjusted to control the tightness of the guard. Adjusting the tension of the bolts makes disassembly easy and simple.
The adjusting bolt's silicone has a thread design that increases the friction between the guard and the contact surface. The small hole at the bottom of the guard's inside winding window has a diameter of 0.197 inches, which can prevent babies from inserting their fingers while playing. The surface of the extra-wide safety guard has been painted, making it smooth without burrs to prevent scratches on babies.
The child safety window guard has a gap of 2.68 inches between the guards, making it impossible for children to fall through. It has been tested to withstand 220 pounds of pressure and 110 pounds of impact. The guard cannot be removed unless a brutal pull with force is used.
The window safety guards for children are suitable for windows ranging from 31.50 inches to 86.62 inches. It is suitable for flat windows, fixed windows, bay windows, sliding windows, removable sliding windows, etc.
As a quality seller, they are responsible for every product. If the customer is not 100% satisfied with the product, they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee and lifetime replacement for defective items. Before installation, a Phillips screwdriver needs to be prepared in advance to use when splicing the window guards. If there are any problems with the item, the customer can contact the seller without hesitation.
- Easy to install without drilling or damaging walls and windows
- Sturdy support using the reaction force between the guard and the contact surface
- Adjustable length of the four bolts to control the tightness of the guard
- Easy and simple disassembly by adjusting the tension of the bolts
- Small hole at the bottom of the guard's inside winding window to prevent babies from inserting their fingers
- Smooth surface of the extra-wide safety guard to prevent scratches on babies
- Tested to withstand 220 pounds of pressure and 110 pounds of impact
- Suitable for various types of windows
- 30-day money-back guarantee and lifetime replacement for defective items
- – Requires a Phillips screwdriver for installation
Best Dogs For Autistic Children FAQs
Are there any potential risks or concerns with having a dog and an autistic child in the same household?
Yes, there can be potential risks or concerns with having a dog and an autistic child in the same household. While dogs can be wonderful companions and provide emotional support, they can also be unpredictable and may not always understand how to interact with people with autism. Autistic children may have difficulty communicating with the dog or understanding how to behave around them, which could result in misunderstandings or even aggression.
Additionally, some dogs may have a high prey drive and may see the child as a potential target. This is especially true if the child is prone to sudden movements or loud noises, which can trigger the dog's instincts. There is also a risk of the child being bitten or scratched if they accidentally provoke the dog or get too close to them while they are eating or playing.
To minimize these risks, it is important to choose a dog that is well-trained, socialized, and comfortable around children. It is also important to supervise interactions between the dog and child, and to teach the child how to behave appropriately around the dog. With proper training and supervision, however, many families have successfully integrated dogs into their households with autistic children and have found them to be a valuable source of companionship and support.
How can dogs help autistic children?
Dogs have been known to have a therapeutic effect on autistic children. Autistic children often struggle with social interaction and communication, and dogs can help with that. Dogs provide a non-judgmental presence and can help create a sense of calm for autistic children. They can also provide a sense of comfort and companionship that can be beneficial for children who may struggle with forming relationships with humans.
Dogs can also help autistic children with sensory processing issues. Many autistic children may be hypersensitive to certain sounds, smells, or textures, and dogs can provide a calming presence that can help mitigate these sensitivities. In addition, dogs can help teach children responsibility and improve their self-esteem.
There are specific types of dogs that are trained to work with autistic children, such as service dogs and therapy dogs. Service dogs are trained to assist with specific tasks, such as interrupting self-harming behaviors or guiding the child away from danger. Therapy dogs, on the other hand, are trained to provide emotional support and comfort.
Overall, dogs can be a valuable tool for helping autistic children navigate the challenges of their condition. However, it is important to note that not all autistic children may benefit from having a dog and that each child's needs should be individually assessed before deciding to introduce a dog into their life.
How do you train a dog to work with an autistic child?
Training a dog to work with an autistic child requires patience, consistency, and a lot of positive reinforcement. Firstly, it is important to choose the right dog breed that is suitable for the child's needs and temperament. Once the dog is chosen, the training process should begin by teaching basic obedience commands such as "sit", "stay", "come" and "heel". These commands help in establishing a bond between the dog and the child and also help to keep the child safe.
It is also important to train the dog to recognize and respond to the child's sensory needs. For instance, some dogs can be trained to interrupt repetitive behaviors, provide comfort during meltdowns or alert parents to potentially dangerous situations. These tasks should be taught gradually, using positive reinforcement techniques such as clicker training, treats and praise.
It is important to note that training a dog to work with an autistic child is a long-term process that requires continuous reinforcement and practice. It is also important to involve the child in the training process as much as possible, giving them a sense of responsibility and ownership over their service animal. Ultimately, with the right training and patience, a dog can become an invaluable companion and support for an autistic child.
What are the benefits of having a dog for an autistic child?
Having a dog can be incredibly beneficial for an autistic child in a number of ways. Firstly, dogs have been proven to reduce stress and anxiety levels, which can be particularly helpful for children who struggle with social interaction and sensory sensitivities. Dogs can provide a sense of comfort and security, and can also help to regulate emotions and behaviour.
In addition to this, having a dog can help autistic children to develop their social skills. Dogs can provide a non-judgmental friend who is always there for them, and can help to build confidence and self-esteem. This can translate into improved social skills and communication abilities, as children learn to interact with their furry friend.
Another benefit of having a dog for an autistic child is the opportunity for physical activity and outdoor play. Walking and playing with a dog can provide a valuable outlet for excess energy, while also promoting physical health and wellbeing.
Overall, the benefits of having a dog for an autistic child are numerous and varied. From reducing stress and anxiety, to improving social skills and physical health, a furry friend can be an incredibly valuable addition to any family.
What breeds of dogs are best suited for autistic children?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as every autistic child has unique needs and preferences. However, certain breeds of dogs are known for their calm and patient temperament, making them great companions for children with autism. These breeds include Golden Retrievers, Labradors, Poodles, and German Shepherds, among others. These breeds are also commonly used as therapy dogs for people with various disabilities, including autism.
When choosing a dog for an autistic child, it's important to consider the child's specific needs and preferences, as well as the dog's temperament, energy level, and training. It's also important to ensure that the child is comfortable around dogs and able to interact with them safely and appropriately.
Overall, a well-trained and well-socialized dog of any breed can be a wonderful companion for an autistic child, providing comfort, companionship, and even therapeutic benefits. However, it's important to do your research and choose a dog that is a good fit for your child's individual needs and lifestyle.