Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear fur-covered t-shirts, carry treats in their pockets, and respond instinctively to the sound of paws padding across the floor. This Father’s Day, we’re tipping our hats (and wagging our tails) in honor of the unsung legends of pet parenthood: the dog dads.

Whether he came into the role with a puppy from day one or became “dad by adoption,” there’s a unique kind of love that forms between a man and his dog. It’s a bond built not just on shared snacks or walks in the park but on loyalty, consistency, and unconditional love.

In a world that often celebrates traditional parenting, it’s time we gave proper recognition to the men who proudly serve as pack leaders, paw protectors, and the best belly rubbers in the business.

The Many Faces of Dog Dads

Dog dads come in all forms. Some are rugged hikers exploring trails with their canine companions. Others are city dwellers with small dogs in big apartments, proving you don’t need a backyard to give a pup a full life. Some are single guys, living with their ride or die four legged best friend. Others are family men who treat the dog like a third (or fourth) child and sometimes, perhaps the favorite one.

There’s the first-time dog dad who nervously Googles “how often should my dog poop,” or the seasoned pro who instinctively knows when it’s time for a vet check, nail trim, or change in food. No matter their experience level, these guys show up for their dogs day in and day out.

A Day in the Life of a Dog Dad

Wake up. Groggy. Stumble to the kitchen. Before the coffee brews, the leash is in hand, and a happy tail is thumping against the door. Walks before dawn? Not glamorous. But to the dog dad, it’s just part of the job. Rain, snow, heatwave, or hangover nothing gets between a dog dad and his morning routine. At work, his camera is 90% dog photos. When he’s away, he FaceTimes the pup “Who’s a good boy? You are!”. 

He gets home and without fail there’s a tail-wagging welcome committee. Forget the gym. Tug-of-war in the living room and fetch in the backyard will do. Dinner isn’t complete without a pair of puppy eyes watching every bite. And bedtime? That’s not his side of the bed anymore it’s a shared space, where paws stretch and snores fill the room.

Dog dads don’t just care for dogs. They build routines, form rituals, and create lifelong memories.

Why We Love Dog Dads

Here are just a few reasons dog dads hold a special place in our hearts—and their pup’s:

• They’re dependable. When it’s time for the vet, training class, or 7 p.m. walk, they’re on it.

• They make everything fun. From squirrel chases to spontaneous trips to the pet store, dog dads know how to keep things exciting.

• They’re big softies. That “tough guy” exterior? It melts at the first tail wag or head nuzzle.

• They get their dogs. They notice the little things—like that tiny limp after playtime, or when a bark sounds just a bit off.

• They’re the ultimate protectors. Whether it’s keeping the house safe or shielding their pup from bigger dogs at the park, dog dads step up.

And let’s be honest they’re also the ones buying the extra toy, sneaking the pup an extra bite of chicken, and making sure their dog has the best spot on the couch. And yes, every gift counts as a treat for both dad and pup.