Can a dog help a child with ADHD? The answer is yes! Dogs offer amazing emotional and social benefits for children with ADHD. They provide companionship, reduce stress, and help kids stay active. These furry friends can also teach responsibility and improve a child’s confidence.
Moreover, dogs create structure through daily routines like feeding and walking. This consistency can improve focus and reduce impulsive behaviors. Many experts recommend dogs as a natural way to support ADHD management.
This article will answer all there is to know: “Can a dog help a child with ADHD?” From building emotional connections to encouraging mindfulness, the benefits are endless. Read on to discover why a dog might be the perfect companion for your child with ADHD.
Can a Dog Help a Child with ADHD? – Read the Answers to the Questions on This by a UCI Health Child Development Specialist
Sabrina E.B. Schuck, a child development expert at UCI Health, has long been exploring alternatives to medications for children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and the answer to the question: ‘Can a dog help a child with ADHD?’
Concerned by the limited treatment options, she focused on therapies to help calm these children and improve their focus.
In an innovative randomized trial, Schuck and her team discovered that therapy dogs can effectively reduce some ADHD symptoms in children. ADHD affects at least 5% of children in the U.S.
Schuck, who holds advanced degrees in education and clinical psychology, is an assistant pediatrics professor and the UCI Health Child Development Center executive director.
Her research spans beyond ADHD to include the human-animal connection and school-based interventions. The American Psychological Association’s Society of Counseling Psychology published this particular study in the Human-Animal Interaction Bulletin.
Read the answers to her questions and other comments on this below:
What Sparked the Idea of Using Therapy Dogs for ADHD?
There’s substantial anecdotal evidence about the positive effects of therapy dogs. A school program director introduced a therapy dog named Teddy, which sparked interest.
While many have studied child development and human-animal bonds, large-scale randomized trials have been lacking until now. Drawing on UCI’s decades of ADHD research, Schuck and her team designed a clinical trial to test whether animals like Teddy could make a difference.
Study Participants and Design
The study observed 88 children aged 7 to 9 over five years, divided into seven groups of 12. None of the children were on medication. All participants received dog-themed training to build social and behavioral skills, including lessons on dog care and safety—however, only half of the children directly interacted with therapy dogs.
Interaction with the Dogs
Twice a week, children engaged in structured activities with the dogs, such as throwing balls or Frisbees, grooming, and agility tasks.
These sessions incorporated lessons to develop social skills, and children earned rewards—like cuddling with the dogs—for active participation. On weekends, they also wrote letters and practiced dog-training techniques.
Were the Dogs a Distraction?
Surprisingly, no. Hyperactive children, who often struggle with less preferred activities, were motivated to engage when working with the dogs. The animals appeared to inspire the kids to participate in tasks they would typically avoid.
Study Duration
Each group participated in a 12-week program, with follow-ups six weeks later. During the first nine weeks, children learned to train the dogs. In the final three weeks, they created lesson plans to teach commands like “sit” and “stay,” later attempting to train puppies—a task requiring significant patience and self-control.
Findings
The children who interacted with therapy dogs showed noticeable improvements in attention, social skills, and self-esteem compared to those who didn’t work with dogs. However, hyperactivity and impulsivity were unaffected.
Importantly, the positive results persisted six weeks after the program ended. Since hyperactivity often decreases with age, but attention problems remain a lifelong challenge, these findings are particularly valuable.
Does This Replace Medication?
Schuck emphasizes that medication remains a highly effective treatment for many ADHD children, but animal-assisted interventions could complement or provide alternatives in certain cases. Understanding which children benefit most from these strategies is crucial.
Future Goals
The next step is to identify which children respond best to animal-assisted interventions and to explore how these strategies can be implemented in schools. The ultimate aim is to integrate this program safely and effectively to motivate children and enhance their participation in learning.
Unexpected Outcomes
One delightful surprise was the children’s enthusiasm. Those in the dog-interaction groups eagerly arrived at school on time, excited to start therapy sessions, demonstrating the program’s motivational power.
Therapy Dogs: A Patient’s Loyal Companion – What a Top Medical Center Says on This
When dealing with illness, pain, or undergoing medical treatments, it’s normal to feel scared, discouraged, or even depressed. These moments of stress can be alleviated by the comforting presence of a friendly dog.
At UC Irvine Medical Center, the Pet Therapy Program has witnessed firsthand how interacting with affectionate dogs can aid in patient recovery.
For almost two decades, these furry companions have been bringing joy and lifting spirits across various departments, including orthopedic care, rehabilitation, cancer treatment, senior care, and physical therapy.
Barbara Arbour, who manages patient relations and volunteer services for UCI Health, shares an example of their impact: A patient in the cancer center had dangerously high blood pressure due to anxiety over his treatment. A therapy dog climbed into his lap, calming him enough to begin chemotherapy.
Similarly, the parents of an unconscious child requested daily visits from a therapy dog. Over time, they noticed their daughter’s fingers starting to move as they rested her hand on the dog’s fur. Even medical students benefit, often requesting therapy dogs during the stressful finals season.
The Science Behind Therapy Dogs’ Impact
Michael Steinhardt, currently training his third therapy dog, Buster, highlights the research-backed benefits of these interactions. Therapy dogs help reduce blood pressure, alleviate anxiety, lessen pain perception, and trigger endorphin release, promoting feelings of well-being.
Their presence is especially vital for those battling loneliness or depression. Steinhardt remarks on the visible joy therapy dogs bring to patients, staff, and visitors alike.
Although the Pet Therapy Program predates Arbour’s arrival, she continues expanding it. However, finding suitable pet therapy teams is challenging.
Qualities of an Effective Pet Therapy Team
For a dog to qualify as a therapy companion, it should be:
- Well-socialized and comfortable with people.
- Obedient and immune to distractions, loud sounds, and unfamiliar scents.
- Genuinely eager to interact with people of all types.
Handlers must have a strong bond with their dogs and be able to read their pet’s cues to prevent overexertion. They also need experience managing their dogs in various situations to ensure the safety of all involved.
Steps to Join the Program
If you and your dog are interested in volunteering, keep in mind the following requirements:
- Certification as a therapy dog through reputable organizations like Pet Partners or Therapy Dogs International.
- Completion of a UCI Health workshop and evaluation for program compatibility.
- Up-to-date vaccinations for the dog, including rabies.
- Medical clearance, background checks, and orientation for the handler.
- A commitment of 100 visiting hours, with each session lasting no more than two hours and involving 10–20 patients.
- Grooming the dog within 24 hours before visits.
Therapy Dogs: Celebrities of Care
Therapy dogs at UCI Medical Center are treated like VIPs, often drawing attention and admiration. Handlers receive trading cards with their dog’s photo and details to share with patients, along with scarves, badges, and free parking privileges.
Steinhardt, a volunteer who began therapy work in 2011 with his beloved Chinese shar-pei, Bosley, recalls the joy Bosley brought to countless people. During his three years of service, Bosley made an impact on nearly 6,000 lives and became a Facebook sensation with around 900 friends.
“When you witness the difference a therapy dog can make for patients,” Steinhardt says, “it’s a win for everyone involved.”
So, At a glance
Having a pet can be beneficial for children with ADHD, offering companionship and valuable life lessons like responsibility and empathy. However, bringing a pet into the home solely to address ADHD symptoms isn’t recommended.
If you’re considering getting a pet for your child with ADHD, you may wonder if it’s a good idea. Generally, the answer is yes. Pets provide unconditional love and friendship while teaching important skills.
They help kids learn responsibility and empathy, which can be especially significant for children with ADHD (or ADD), who may struggle in these areas.
Do Animals Help Kids With ADHD?
While no definitive evidence shows that interacting with animals directly improves ADHD symptoms, some research suggests potential benefits.
For instance, a small study revealed that therapy sessions involving a therapy dog helped children with ADHD feel calmer, reduced their stress, and better prepared them for therapy. Therapy dogs are trained specifically for such interactions.
Even having a regular pet at home can positively impact kids with ADHD. Here’s why:
- Time Management Skills: Caring for a pet, like feeding or grooming, requires planning and organization.
- Physical Activity: Walking or playing with a dog provides a productive outlet for extra energy.
- Stress Relief: Petting or cuddling animals can help reduce anxiety and stress.
- Social Benefits: Pets attract attention and can spark conversations, aiding social interactions.
- Empathy Development: Caring for animals encourages compassion, an area where some children with ADHD—particularly boys—may struggle.
It’s essential to note that pets are not a treatment for ADHD and shouldn’t be acquired solely for this purpose.
Choosing the Right Pet for a Child With ADHD
There’s no universally ideal pet for children with ADHD. The best choice depends on your child’s preferences and your family’s circumstances.
Start by discussing what kind of animal your child finds appealing.
Ask them to envision daily interactions, like caring for a bird or playing with a dog, to ensure their expectations match reality.
For instance, a parakeet might seem fun, but it isn’t cuddly and requires cage cleaning.
Consider whether your child has the self-control to avoid unintentionally harming a delicate animal, like a bird.
Also, evaluate how a pet will fit into the family dynamic. For example, while a playful puppy can suit an energetic child, caring for one requires time, effort, and resources.
Best Dog Breeds for Kids With ADHD
When selecting a dog, prioritize temperament over breed. Look for dogs that are gentle, tolerant, and trainable. Breeds like Labradors and Golden Retrievers are popular choices for families.
Smaller dogs, however, may not be ideal. Children with ADHD might unintentionally grab or startle a fragile dog, which could lead to issues.
If considering a rescue dog, spend ample time assessing its behavior before adoption. Rescue animals often require extra patience and training due to unknown past experiences.
Preparing for a New Pet
In your quest to know to the answer to: ‘Can a dog help a child with ADHD?,’ surprising your child with a pet may sound exciting, but it’s usually not the best approach—especially for kids with ADHD, who can struggle with transitions.
Involve your child in the entire process. Research potential pets together, list necessary supplies, and plan where the pet will live. If adopting a dog, consider attending training classes as a family. Create a chore schedule for tasks like feeding and walking the pet.
Some parents use written agreements to hold children accountable for pet care. However, teaming up can be more effective, as children with ADHD may need reminders or support.
Ensure everyone in the household agrees to have a pet, as adding a new member to an already stressed environment can create tension.
When Pets May Not Be Suitable
In some cases, kids with severe impulse control issues or aggressive tendencies may need to wait before having a pet. While these behaviors don’t rule out pet ownership forever, children may need to mature or develop better self-regulation skills first.
If you’re uncertain whether your child is ready, consider helping them practice responsibility with other tasks or focusing on strategies to improve emotional regulation.
Key Points to Remember
- There’s no single “best” pet or dog breed for children with ADHD.
- Avoid surprising your child with a pet; involve them in the preparation process.
- The pet should match your child’s energy level and your family’s schedule and resources.
So, Can a Dog Help a Child with ADHD? Oh, Yes! Dogs can be a powerful tool for helping children with ADHD. Their love and companionship boost emotional well-being and build confidence. Dogs also encourage physical activity, which improves focus and reduces hyperactivity.
Through daily routines, children learn responsibility and gain a sense of accomplishment. These skills transfer to other areas of their lives, like school and friendships. Having a dog can create structure and improve overall mental health.
If you’re considering getting a dog, think about your child’s needs and family lifestyle. A furry friend could be the life-changing support your child needs. Share this article with others to spread awareness of how dogs can help children with ADHD thrive!