What is a Dog Dad?

But you want to know what it actually means to be a dog dad.

I hear you.

It's a head-scratcher, isn't it? It's not worth losing sleep over though.

In this article (my very first by the way) I'll share my thoughts on this common mind boggler. I'll break down my favourite dog dad meaning quote (found on Etsy) line by line, so you can see why it just makes so much sense.

Oh, and just so you know, I'm officially a dog dad to Luna my English Bulldog. Over on my about page, I've shared my story, check it out when you get the chance.

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Exploring the business, strategies and tools that help us be awesome dog dads.

FurrimalsLee Parker

What is a dog dad?

A dog dad is someone who identifies as male, is a proud owner of a dog and works exceptionally hard so his dog can live their best life. Professional nose booper, ear scratcher, belly tickler. The best walking companion and professional scooper. Someone who provides the best snacks and total unconditional love. Like a regular dad, but much cooler.

Works exceptionally hard so that his dog can live their best life
Being a dog dad is hard work, there's no sugar-coating it – sorry! I have had many times where I've wanted to give up, but many more times where I've said to myself - absolutely no way. I find it hard to imagine my life without Luna now, that's how impactful dogs can be in our lives.

I work hard to pay the bills, buy new toys regularly, to feed Luna a healthy diet. Dogs have much shorter life spans than we do, I know I need to make it awesome.  

Professional nose booper, ear scratcher, belly tickler
Now, this may vary from breed to breed, but as Luna is a brachycephalic breed - meaning short-nosed - there's very little to 'boop', yet she loves it when I tap that cold, wet thing. As a dog dad, you should too.

I lose track of the number of times I scratch her ears, some might say it's an odd thing to do, but there's no better satisfaction than knowing you've got the spot as they look at you with eyes that say "keep going, don't stop!".

Then there's the belly tickler, who doesn't love their belly being tickled.

The best walking companion and professional scooper
Walking is one of the most enjoyable experiences you can share with your dog. It's often referred to as a time where you get to bond together, plus, nothing shows a fatherly bond more than picking up some solid, sometimes runny poo 💩

Someone who provides the best snacks and total unconditional love
Snacks and unconditional love go hand in hand – literally. I probably overfeed Luna, she loves to eat, I mean who doesn't. To her though, she doesn't find her own food, she gets it from me. There's so much trust and love built in this action.

Related: Signs you're ready to be a dog dad

Dog Dad Principles

So there you have it, the breakdown of my favourite dog dad meaning. Here are some passing words as you go on your dog dad journey.

• Be proud - being a dog dad is a privilege, don't be afraid to call yourself one, and ignore anyone who says otherwise
• Acceptance - being a dog dad is tough work, accept who you are, you'll be the best dog dad you can be
• Love your dog - it's not shameful to love your dog unconditionally, you don't need to prove a point to friends or family, your dog will know you love them

5 Simple Ways to Be a Better Dog Dad

This might be one of the most useful articles you’ll read today.

FurrimalsLee Parker

Frequently Asked Questions

What is another name for a dog dad?

• Dog Daddy
• Dog Father
• Fur Daddy
• Puppy Daddy
• Dog Daddies
• Wolf Dad
• Doggo Dad
• Fluff Dad
• Pack Parent
• Dog Parent
• Crazy Dog Guy
• Dawg Dad