9 Father's Day gifts for dog dads

Are you a proud dog dad? Or do you know of a special puppy parent who deserves to be treated this month? June 18th is a day to celebrate all fathers, even if their children are of the furry kind. We’ve done our own backyard digging to find the best Father’s Day gift for dog dads on the market. From personalized dog dad trinkets, to gifts for both father and fur baby, we’ve rounded up the 9 best gifts to give for this year’s Father’s Day.

1. Personalized pooch glasses, mugs and cups

They’ll never drink alone again! Whether your tipple is tea, coffee, or something stronger, have the face of your dog dad’s beloved fur child imprinted on their soon-to-be new favorite cup. Etsy appears to be the best money saving route for this thoughtful gift, have a look at the range of glass engravers and mug personalizers available.

2. Dog DNA test

For anyone who has spent time looking through doggy social media pages in the last three years, you most likely would have come across dog DNA tests. Similar to the human ancestry identification through cheek swabs, if you have ever been unsure, curious, or puzzled by the breed of your pooch, they hope to help unravel your dog’s DNA mystery history. 

Although there are numerous brands promoting the most accurate results, The New York Times recommends using either Embark or Wisdom Panel. Prices vary from $30 up to $130 depending on the type of test and pack you choose. Whilst a fun experiment for any pet parent, reading into your dog's genetic history could also provide helpful information for your vet too. A practical present is certainly the best kind!

3. Furry friendship bracelets and collars

These are not literally furry, although there almost certainly is a website out there ready to provide such a service. No, these are classy custom friendship bracelets for dog dads alongside a matching collar for their best furry friend. The Friendship Collar offers a wide range of unified dog and dad collar-bracelets. These can simply be color coordinated fashion items or fully engraved twined accessories.

4. Pet portraits

Like the dog DNA tests, pet portraits have been making their circuit around social media over the last several years. What could be more befitting for a Father’s Day dog dad gift than a five foot portrait of their precious pup? 

If you are or know a dog dad of traditional taste, Crown and Paw offer Renaissance style art from a photo or still life. Otherwise, for those who appreciate a more contemporary piece, West and Willow provide the option for more realistic paintings. Despite not being the cheapest item on our list (prices start at about $70), this is a timeless present. And surely, does a picture not speak a thousand words?

5. All-in-one dog and dad day out kit

Adventure dogs and dads must always be prepared. Whether they’re scaling steep hills, padding over peddled beaches, or diving through fields, every trip requires thinking ahead. Introducing the Pecute Dog Treat Pouch Bag! Don’t let the name of the product fool you, this is far more than just a treat dispenser. This compatible, durable and waterproof bag can hold treats, poo bags, foldaway silicone dog bowl, dog training clicker, as well as space for your personal belongings. Nothing says Father’s Day like a multipurpose gadget!

6. Dog backpack carrier

Ideal for dog dads of the small, elderly, or puppy variety, these pup packs are lightweight yet durable. If you know their senior snuffle or pooped puppy becomes easily tired on long walks, this is a great solution to prevent dog dad from cutting the journey short. Easy to fold away, when their paws can go no further, simply unravel said carrier bag, slot your doggo in and wear as you would do a backpack. K9 Sport Sack offers a range of styles and sizes starting at $50 with a lifetime guarantee.

7. Custom photo frame

This is a great gift that is both personable and on the cheaper end of the present scale. Options can include simply a nice looking frame to a fully engraved and personalized present for a specific photo. Once again, Etsy provides a variety of services, however we would also recommend Yappy as well as Chewy.

8. Nerf dog tennis ball blaster

For those who consider themselves to be the ‘cool’ dog dad, look no further than this awesome Father’s Day gift. Available on Amazon for less than $15, the Nerf Tennis Ball Blaster Dog Toy boasts a firing range of 50 feet, as well as the ability to teach your dog new tricks. This toy holds a nostalgic essence of old 1990s and 1980s kids TV adverts which may take your dog dad fondly back in time.

9. Doggo friendly literature

For those canine fathers who like to kick back with a book, perhaps a dog centric book is in order? Whilst there are numerous fiction books about dogs, or from the point of view of dogs, Father’s Day calls for a more nonfiction route. 

Anyone looking to up their game as a dog dad and improve their canine knowledge, Alexandra Horowitz’s ‘Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know’ offers a great insight into understanding the world as a dog. Otherwise, if you’re seeking a more jovial, tongue in cheek read, check out Matthew Gilbert’s book ‘Off the Leash: A Year at the Dog Park’. This is a lighthearted story that describes the ups and downs experienced by every dog owner through his own humorous observations and empathy.

Of course, we don’t want to exclude dog moms from all the fun - read up on our suggestions on the best dog mom gifts. For all other dog lovers, check out the latest dog sitting opportunities near you and become part of the largest pet people community around.