Published on 12, July, 2020
I searched for this subject and couldnt find anything recent on the subject.
I am looking for views and opinions about any advantages or disadvantages in getting a dog for a 12 year old with a diagnosed ASD. I have read many articles saying they can be good but i'd like to hear from people with real life experiences before exploring further. I'm not talking about a formal, trained "assistance dog", just a dog that can be home trained to be company for my son.
Thank you
DuckBread said:Try and find a dog that matches your child's energy levels; if they're very active, try and get a dog that'll keep pace and love to play with them. If your child prefers a slower pace of life, there are lots of lazy dogs out there who'd be happy to snuggle up on a couch for most of the day
That is the most important thing - matching the energy.
I grew up with dogs and absolutely loved them (not therapy dogs - just family pets). It's very therapeutic to have a friend who always listens and doesn't judge you. They're great at reading your mood and taking care of you when you're feeling down or stressed too. If you have the time and care to give a dog, I'd say it's a great idea.
Try and find a dog that matches your child's energy levels; if they're very active, try and get a dog that'll keep pace and love to play with them. If your child prefers a slower pace of life, there are lots of lazy dogs out there who'd be happy to snuggle up on a couch for most of the day (although all dogs need walking - just for different time periods depending on their needs).
i have grown up with dogs and they have taught me loyalty, bravery, leadership, using other senses eg sound and smell, hunting. They also break social barriers for you. Someone will talk to just because they love dogs. anyways ....
I agree with Adie, I have dogs and they have given me purpose when I can't see any reson to go on. Dogs never judge they are loyal and unconditionally loving. I didnt get my dogs as assistance dogs but they are.
Greyhounds and whippets are a lovely breed and there are plenty looking for loving homes.
A good book to read about an assistance greyhound is;
Comet how a greyhound I rescued saved my life, its by Steven Wolff.
I'd say getting a compaion for your 12 year old is something that could potentially change their life for the better.
they are absolutely good for ASD children I have a friend and her dog prefers the ASD child ( non verbal ) than anyone else in the house. In short they bonded really well together. Dogs are very successfully used as companions to treat soldiers with depression and PTSD and it is very successful.get you I personally find they can get you out of the house up on ur feet more and u can talk to them. If ur child gets intp teaching dog tricks it can be very beneficial activity in deed.
veteranswithdogs.org.uk
http://www.asdcompanionlabradoodles.com
but dogs cost money and time so beware