Answer Summary

Members shared reassuring stories in response to a parent worried their autistic child wasn't bonding with their new black lab puppy, with... Read more

Members shared reassuring stories in response to a parent worried their autistic child wasn't bonding with their new black lab puppy, with most emphasizing that forming a connection often takes months, not weeks. Several members described similar experiences where their children initially showed no interest or even fear, but eventually warmed up through gradual exposure, offering treats, gentle touch introduced as softness like a favorite blanket, and simply having the dog present during outings. A recurring theme was patience and the belief that once the puppy matures past the chaotic puppy stage, the child may feel safer and more comfortable, with one member noting their daughter now claims the family cat as her own after six months of barely acknowledging it.