10 Best Pets for Kids with Autism — Gentle, Loving, and Just What They Need

Autistic children often benefit from the companionship of a pet. Pets can provide comfort, emotional support, and teach responsibility. Choosing the right pet for an autistic child can be a challenge, as every child is unique and has different needs.

There are many different types of pets that can be suitable for autistic children. Some pets require more attention and care than others, and some are more low-maintenance. It is important to consider the child’s interests, personality, and lifestyle when selecting a pet. Here are some of the top 10 pets that are best for autistic children.

Also read: Hand Flapping When Excited, But Not Autism? How to Tell, When to Worry.

1) Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, and for good reason. They are known for their friendly and gentle nature, making them an excellent choice for families with autistic children. Golden Retrievers are highly trainable and excel in various roles, including service dogs. These dogs are very affectionate and love to be around people, which can be comforting for children with autism who may struggle with social interactions. They are also very patient and tolerant, which is important when dealing with children who may have sensory or behavioral issues.

2) Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are a popular choice for service and therapy dogs due to their friendly and easy-going nature. They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and eagerness to please their handlers. These traits make them an excellent choice as a companion for children with autism. Labradors are also highly trainable, which makes them ideal for service roles. They can be trained to perform tasks such as retrieving dropped items, opening doors, and providing deep pressure therapy. Their friendly nature also makes them great playmates for children, which can help to improve social skills and overall well-being.

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3) Beagle

Beagles are a friendly breed that gets along well with children, making them a great option for families with autistic children. They are active and enjoy being outdoors, making them a great companion for children who love to play outside. However, they tend to bark excessively, which may not be the best choice for a child sensitive to noise. Beagles thrive on affection, and their happy-go-lucky personality makes them a lovable pet for any family.

Also read: How to Write an IEP for Autism: IEP Goal Ideas, Sample PDF

4) Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small, friendly dog breed that makes a great companion for autistic children. They are affectionate and patient, and their small size makes them perfect for apartment living. Cavaliers are highly attuned to their owner’s emotions and provide comfort and support to children with autism. They are also known for their adaptability and trainability, making them an ideal choice for families with children who have special needs.

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5) Poodle

Poodles are highly intelligent and trainable dogs that make excellent companions for children with autism. They come in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Poodles are known for their hypoallergenic coat, which makes them a great choice for families with allergies. They are friendly and affectionate dogs that love to be around people. Poodles are also very adaptable and can live in a variety of environments, including apartments. They are great family pets and are known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners. Poodles require regular grooming to maintain their coat, but they are generally easy to care for.

6) Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise is a small breed of dog that is known for its friendly and playful nature. They are hypoallergenic, which makes them a great pet option for children with autism who may have allergies. Bichon Frises are also highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of living situations, including apartments and houses with yards. This breed is known for being affectionate and loving towards their owners, making them a great companion for children with autism. Bichon Frises are also intelligent and easy to train, which can help children with autism develop a sense of responsibility and improve their social skills.

7) Havanese

Havanese dogs are a great choice for families with autistic children. They are small, friendly, and sociable, and they thrive on human companionship. They are often referred to as “velcro dogs” because of their desire to be close to their owners. This makes them great emotional support animals for children with autism. Havanese are adaptable and easy to train, which makes them a great choice for families with children who have special needs. They are also hypoallergenic, which means they don’t shed much and are less likely to cause allergies.

8) Siamese Cat

Siamese cats are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature, making them a great choice for children with autism. They are intelligent and playful, which can help stimulate a child’s mind and provide a source of entertainment. However, they can be quite demanding and require a lot of attention and interaction. For families looking for a low-maintenance pet, Siamese cats may not be the best choice.

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9) Ragdoll Cat

The Ragdoll cat is a popular choice for families with autistic children due to their friendly and laid-back personality. They are known for their love of cuddling and being patient and tolerant, which can be helpful for children with sensory issues. Ragdolls are also gentle and calm, making them a good fit for children who prefer a more relaxed environment.

When introducing a Ragdoll cat to an autistic child, it is important to supervise the interaction and teach the child how to handle the cat gently. With proper care and attention, a Ragdoll cat can be a great companion for an autistic child.

10) Guinea Pig

Guinea pigs are a popular pet choice for children with autism due to their friendly and gentle nature. According to a study published by Vetstreet, autistic children who interacted with guinea pigs engaged in 55% more social behaviors than when they interacted with toys. The calming effect of a guinea pig’s presence can lead to minimized stress and fewer meltdowns, making them an ideal companion for children with autism. Moreover, guinea pigs are relatively low-maintenance pets, making them a great option for busy families. Also read: 14 Pretend Play Ideas (+ Pretend Play and Autism)

Benefits of Pets for Autistic Children

Pets can offer numerous benefits to children with autism. Here are some of the benefits that owning a pet can provide:

Enhanced Communication

Pets can also enhance communication skills in children with autism. According to Our World And Autism, “Helping with language development and communication skills as the child speaks, plays and communicates with their pet.” Pets can help children learn how to express themselves, as they communicate with their pet and learn to understand their pet’s needs.

Also read: What are Autistic Shutdowns? (adults and kids)

Choosing the Right Pet

By taking a gradual approach, creating a safe space, and monitoring interactions, you can help ensure a positive experience when introducing a new pet to an autistic child. More information on autism: Autism Information and Resources