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Description

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by challenges with social communication, interaction, and repetitive behaviors that can affect daily functioning (Polak-Passy et al., 2024) and increase vulnerability to bullying (Dollion et al., 2024). Animal-assisted interventions (AAI), particurly dogs, have recently gained attention as a potential support for children with ASD.

This literature review examines canine-assisted interventions and their outcomes. Google Scholar was used, with the initial search yielding 17,700 results with keywords Autism, dogs, and children. This initial search was narrowed down to 20 articles by using advanced search and keywords canine or dog, children, and Autism (ASD).

Identified outcomes include social communication, emotional regulation, functional/behavioral outcomes, motivation, family system and caregiver well-being, and overall quality of life. Canine-assisted interventions have promising potential for supporting children with ASD, showing the need for standardized protocols in future research.

Publication Date

4-30-2026

Keywords

dog-assisted interventions, children, autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

Canine-Assisted Interventions for Children with Autism

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