Supporting Families to ‘Make the Most’ of the Relationship Between Their Companion Dogs and Their Children with Autism Spectrum Condition: A Qualitative Exploration of the ‘Family Dog Service’

Evidence suggests that assistance and therapy dogs can positively impact the mental and physical health of children with autism spectrum condition (ASC) and their families. However, these services are often costly and inaccessible. As an alternative, companion dogs (e.g., non-specialist-trained pet dogs) may offer similar benefits. To support families in selecting and training a dog to benefit the whole family, a charity named Dogs for Good has designed the Family Dog Service. This qualitative study aimed to explore the perceived impact of human-dog interactions and relationships for children with ASC and their families, and their perceptions of the Family Dog Service. Interviews were conducted with 16 parents of children with ASC who had engaged with the service within the last five years. Thematic analysis identified four main themes. These related to the positive impact of the companion dog on the child with ASC (e.g., enhanced focus and attention, reduction in loneliness, and reduced anxiety-based behaviours) and the parents (e.g., increased respite and wellbeing). However, parents also reported challenges of dog ownership (e.g., adjustment to routines and barriers associated with the development of the human-dog relationship). These challenges appeared to be mitigated by tailored guidance and support from the Family Dog Service. The findings indicate that companion dog ownership provided benefits to children with ASC and their families, similar to those reported for autism assistance dogs. While the findings do not suggest that companion dogs can replace the important role played by specialist trained assistance dogs, it is possible that reported benefits may occur due to the development of the human-dog relationship, facilitated by the support offered by the Family Dog Service. The service may provide a practical, valuable alternative in light of restrictions and challenges often associated with securing assistance dog placements.