Dog dads are men who choose to have dogs instead of, or in addition to, having human children. They love and care for their canine companions as if they were their kids. Being a dog dad has become increasingly popular in recent years, as more men embrace the joys of dog parenthood.
Why Men Become Dog Dads
There are many reasons why men become dog dads, including:
- They want companionship and unconditional love that a dog provides
- They aren’t ready for the responsibility of raising human children
- They don’t have a spouse or partner to have kids with
- They want to experience parenthood but with less commitment
- Dogs fit better with their lifestyle than kids would
- They already have human kids and want a dog too
For many men today, being a dog dad allows them to experience the joys of fatherhood without the extensive time, money, and responsibility required of raising human children. It’s a more flexible type of parenting.
Signs You Have a Dog Dad
How can you recognize a dog dad when you see one? Here are some typical signs:
- He refers to his dog as his “kid” or “baby”
- He takes his dog everywhere he can – restaurants, stores, vacations
- He celebrates his dog’s birthday as he would a human child’s
- He spoils his dog with fancy toys, clothes, premium food, etc.
- Training and properly caring for the dog are priorities for him
- He considers his dog when making life decisions – moving, job changes, etc.
- He posts lots of photos of his dog on social media
- He experiences anxiety when separated from his dog
Of course, how a man cares for and interacts with his dog will vary. But in general, dog dads treat their pups like members of the family.
Benefits of Being a Dog Dad
Why do men find becoming dog dads so rewarding? There are many benefits, including:
- Companionship – Dogs provide constant, loyal companionship and affection.
- Stress relief – Playing with and cuddling a dog can lower stress and boost mood.
- Exercise motivation – Dogs need walking and exercise, motivating owners to stay active.
- Social catalyst – Dogs can spark conversations and help owners bond with other pet parents.
- Health benefits – Dog ownership is linked to lower blood pressure, reduced anxiety, and decreased loneliness.
- Unconditional love – Dogs don’t judge. Their desire to please owners and enjoy their company is unwavering.
- Routine and purpose – Caring for a dog adds meaning and structure that men can appreciate.
In many ways, dogs fulfill important emotional needs and teach responsibility like children, but in a simpler way more suited to some men’s lifestyles.
Being a Dog Dad vs. a Human Dad
While dog dads share some experiences with fathers of human children, there are some notable differences:
| Dog Dad | Human Dad | |
|---|---|---|
| Costs | Food, medical care, toys/supplies | Much higher costs for food, clothing, education, activities, etc. |
| Time commitment | Feeding, walking, playing daily | Fully responsible for child’s needs 24/7 |
| Work/life balance | More flexible – dog can stay home alone | Less flexible – need childcare, time off work |
| Travel | Can bring dog or use sitter/kennel | Harder with kids’ school, activities; limits options |
While both dog dads and human dads feel love and connection with those they care for, dog parenthood generally involves less responsibility and life adjustment. But dog dads’ relationships with their “fur babies” are still very real and important.
Lifestyle Changes When Becoming a Dog Dad
Deciding to become a dog dad leads to some changes and commitments men should be prepared for, including:
- Spending time each day walking and playing with the dog
- Training the dog and reinforcing good behavior
- Arranging care if away for long hours like work
- Adapting social life and travel to accommodate the dog
- Making financial commitments for food, medical care, supplies, etc.
- Providing exercise, mental stimulation, and affection for the dog’s needs
- Making the dog part of major life decisions and planning
- Keeping home relatively clean and safe for a dog
- Dealing with challenges like barking, chewing, illnesses
These require compromise and commitment. But most dog dads feel the rewards far outweigh the work.
Preparing to Become a Dog Dad
To prepare for life as a dog dad, men should consider:
- Researching breeds to find one suited to your lifestyle
- Dog-proofing your home and yard
- Shopping for supplies – food bowls, leash, toys, bed, etc.
- Finding a trusted veterinarian
- Budgeting for expenses like food, medical costs, etc.
- Deciding on a training approach and committing to it
- Planning how you’ll provide exercise and enrichment
- Reading about effective dog parenting skills and techniques
- Making sure your schedule allows plenty of time for hands-on dog care
Putting in time upfront to prepare will help set you and your dog up for success.
Picking the Right Dog Breed
An important first step is picking a dog breed that matches your lifestyle and experience level as a dog owner. Considerations include:
- Energy level – Low, moderate or high? Important for exercise needs.
- Size – Space required, ability to physically handle dog.
- Grooming needs – Shedding, bathing, haircuts.
- Trainability – How easy to train and obedience level.
- barking tendencies – Frequency, triggers, ability to control.
- Health issues – Genetic conditions common to breed.
- Temperament – Compatible with singles, kids, other pets, strangers?
Consulting breed guides, reputable breeders and other dog owners can help you make the perfect choice.
Choosing Between Puppy or Adult Dog
Another key decision – should you adopt a puppy or adult dog? Consider:
| Puppy | Adult Dog | |
|---|---|---|
| Training | Can be molded but requires more work | May already have training but can still learn |
| Activity level | Very high energy initially | Energy needs likely established |
| Health | Risk of some inherited conditions later on | Health history may be known |
| Personality | Will emerge and develop over time | Set personality evident immediately |
Think about your experience, activity level and preferences to decide what’s best.
Preparing Home, Schedule & Budget
Before adopting, make sure:
- Your home is dog-proofed – secure fences, safe toxic items removal, etc.
- Your yard is ready – cleanup, secure gates, shelter option installed.
- You can commit to a daily dog walking/exercise schedule.
- You can properly supervise a puppy or dog initially when home.
- You can adapt your social life and travel to meet the dog’s needs.
- You have budgeted for food, medical, supplies, training costs, etc.
Taking care of these preparations helps set you and your new dog up for success.
Tips for Being a Great Dog Dad
To be the best dog dad you can be:
- Commit to regular veterinary checkups and preventative care
- Invest time and patience into positive training methods
- Provide a nutritious, high quality dog food diet
- Make sure your dog gets sufficient daily exercise and playtime
- Give your dog affection, praise and attention each day
- Stimulate your dog mentally with interactive toys, training, etc.
- Be consistent in reinforcing house and leash manners
- Adapt your lifestyle to help meet your dog’s needs
- Learn techniques to handle challenging dog behaviors
- Be patient and committed to your dog for his/her lifetime
Dogs give so much to their owners. Being a dedicated dog dad allows you to return the favor.
Enjoying Life as a Dog Dad
The joys of being a dog dad include:
- Greeting excited “puppy kisses” and cuddles every day
- Going on fun walks, hikes and adventures together
- Having a constant companion by your side or on your lap
- Watching your dog learn, grow and experience life
- Feeling loved unconditionally by your furry “child”
- Teaching tricks and bonding through training sessions
- Getting regular exercise by playing fetch, etc. with your dog
- Experiencing the outdoors through your dog’s fresh perspective
- Having a buddy to ruffle and snuggle at the end of a long day
Dog dads experience a unique relationship with their canine kids full of fun, activity and unconditional love.
Challenges of Dog Dads
Dog parenthood also comes with its share of challenges, such as:
- Sleep disturbances from a puppy crying at night or having to go out
- Dealing with accidents – urine, torn up items, etc. during training
- Sacrificing free time previously spent on hobbies or social life
- Handling stressful behaviors like biting, hostility to guests, separation anxiety
- Making difficult decisions about medical care and end of life
- Coping with grief after losing a beloved dog companion
- Managing frustrations from chewing, barking or other unwanted behaviors
- Scheduling and paying for regular grooming, veterinary visits, etc.
But just as with human children, the joys outweigh the challenges for most dog dads.
Finding Community & Support as a Dog Dad
One great way for men to connect with fellow dog dads is through:
- Dog parks – Chat with other owners while dogs play off-leash.
- Doggy daycares – Bond over shared experiences while dogs are cared for.
- Dog walking groups – Walk together and share advice.
- Dog training classes – Commiserate and celebrate training milestones.
- Dog conventions/meetups – Meet and learn from fellow dog lovers.
- Online forums – Exchange stories and seek advice 24/7.
Connecting with other dads can make the experience even more rewarding.
Conclusion
Being a dog dad allows men to experience unconditional love and the joys of parenthood, while fitting a canine companion into their lifestyle. With proper commitment and preparation, becoming a dog dad can be incredibly fulfilling. The growing community of dog dads finds great meaning in caring for their furry best friends and kids.