Exploring health behaviors and the role of pet dogs in households with autistic children: the DANE study

Introduction Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often presents a unique set of risk factors that impact healthy eating and physical activity. Animal-assisted interventions (AAI) are promising approach for autistic children. There is growing evidence the positive AAIs on self-regulation, which necessary initiating maintaining behavioral changes. Pet dogs offer several potential advantages as vehicle an AAI focused health behaviors. However, little known about experiences children their families with respect to dog ownership mechanisms through such might operate. Methods We conducted interviews ten parent-child dyads explore role pet in lives lifestyle habits child. Interview guides were designed relationship between child family life; attitudes practices related activity nutrition; thoughts intervention strategies. used directed qualitative content analysis analysis. Results Themes indicate strong bond dog, child's enjoyment caring successful integration within routines. In contrast, minor themes emerged around challenges owning posed terms nutrition activity, major theme among was exercise important both them dogs. suggest room improvement these Parents held favorable views toward would incorporate teach although they expressed some concerns feasibility. Discussion This exploratory work suggests improve could build have dogs, but should consider specific needs each family, including dog.