A Child’s Best Friend?: A Review of Canine Interventions for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Dogs have been working in partnership with humans for thousands of years, in roles ranging from hunter to herder to faithful companion. In the last century, a new role has emerged for man’s best friend — that of a therapist. The availability of canine therapy programmes for children and young people with autism spectrum disorder is increasing worldwide, and both the media and the general population are lauding these canine therapists for the marvellous work they are completing. As educational psychologists, it is essential that we understand the evidence base these claims are rising from so that we are better able to advise and discuss the pros and cons of such interventions with schools and families.