Dogs and Children with Autism

Scientific studies, including a 4-year study conducted by KNGF in collaboration with the Open University on the effectiveness of the PAWS workshops, have shown that dogs can have a positive effect on children with autism. Even more so if the dogs are specially trained.

Such a dog can help children with autism to be less stressed, to concentrate better and to facilitate contact with their environment.. The presence of the dog often reduces anxiety or tantrums, contributes to a better sleep, and helps with the introduction of daily routines, … A dog can distract the child from dangerous behavior and create an opportunity for the parent (s) to regain control of the situation, for example by showing a fun trick.

Next to the fact that some children need a fully trained assistance dog, many families with a child who has autism can be helped faster and benefit from a well-trained family dog.