Searching for the perfect Father’s Day gift idea for your dad? Look no further! There’s no other gift that’s better than a friendly, cuddly, and loyal dog. We’ve put our heads together and cherry picked the best dog breeds for dads!
From showing off their goofy sides to being protective over their families, dogs and dads are more alike than you think. And for over 10,000 years, dogs have earned their well-deserved reputation of being “man’s best friend.”
Personality doesn’t matter when it comes to picking out the perfect dog for your dad. Various unique dog breeds are ready to be your dad’s next furry friend!
This Father’s Day, don’t settle for the same old. Surprise your old man with any of these amazing dog breeds.
1. Golden Retriever
Out of all the best dogs for dads out there in the world, the Golden Retriever takes first place—no questions asked! Goldies are beloved by countless dog owners around the globe, especially by dads.
This breed is loyal to its owner and never backs down from an opportunity to have fun. Your dad’s Golden Retriever is their new workout buddy, hiking partner, partner-in-crime…you name it!
Golden Retrievers are sporting dogs so they’re always up for any slice of adventure that’s offered to them. These dogs are playful, social, and lively, making them one of the best dogs to have around families.
Goldies are deeply fond of children, rarely showing aggression with the youngest members of their family. This breed enjoys long walks, runs, hikes, swimming, and other activities that challenge its endurance.
Golden Retrievers don’t tire out easily so your dad will be kept on their toes whenever they’re home. Gentle, patient, and loving, Goldies is a Father’s Day gift your dad will never forget!
2. German Shepherd
German Shepherds aren’t your typical dog breed. They possess a quiet, wise personality with no room for nonsense. Sound familiar?
This powerful breed is famous for its strong, athletic build and determined nature. Like many dads across the nation, all German Shepherds work hard to achieve their tasks. They rarely back down from a challenge to get what they want.
With a strong gait and hardy body structure, German Shepherds are the perfect buddies for running or hiking. Their love for adventure will keep your dad regularly active. This breed is also confident and assertive, making them the most “dad-like” of the dogs on this list.
Although they have a natural no-nonsense, protective nature, German Shepherds also know how to have a good time. These dogs are fiercely loyal to their owners and are easy to train.
3. Australian Shepherd
A dog breed with handsome good looks, Australian Shepherds are loyal, high-spirited with one special ability: stamina. There’s no dog that can outmatch the Aussie Shepherd’s endless bouts of energy.
From the start of each day to the end, this breed is constantly working on an activity. Sometimes, it’s running while other times, it’s playing. Aussie Shepherds never seem to run out of stamina.
Their energetic nature is a leftover trait they inherited from their past as sheep herders. It’s why this breed is always on the go! An Aussie Shepherd’s favorite pastime is getting to enjoy moments of fun with their loved ones.
Of course, don’t be too fooled by this breed’s good looks and tireless energy. Your dad will always have a friend in an Australian Shepherd. A bonded Aussie Shepherd is loyal to its owner forever. Their lively personality also helps brighten any hikes or adventures your dad embarks with them.
Aussie Shepherds are the most free-spirited dog your dad will ever meet. If your dad is the active type, Australian Shepherds may just be their ideal companion!
4. Boxer
Boxers are one of the most playful breeds in the world. Just like any dad, Boxers long to be with their families as much as possible. They’re the type of dog breed to nudge your dad for a cuddle or drop a ball on their lap for playtime.
Their level of energy may not match the Australian Shepherd’s but they’re still an upbeat dog that likes to keep busy. Boxers thrive with constant activity, especially through exercise.
Keeping healthy and fit is something that works well with this breed. Boxers thrive with regular exercise and playtime. Think of the Boxer as a dad that constantly works on a project or activity, even on days off!
Boxers are also active as guard dogs, often watching for intruders and other dangers. It’s true that these dogs are outgoing, but they don’t mess around with their family’s safety.
Boxers are very protective and will go out of their way to prevent their loved ones from falling into danger. Quite dad-like, don’t you think?
5. Beagle
As natural-born hound dogs, Beagles have an amazing sense of smell. In fact, according to a study from Lecom, this breed’s sense of smell is so powerful that it can detect cancer in humans with nearly perfect precision.
In the past, the Beagles’ talents were used to hunt for prey. While many farmers and police personnel still employ Beagles to track scents, most of these dogs use their smelling abilities to wait patiently for table scraps to fall on the floor.
And trust us, a Beagle always gets going once they’ve zeroed in on a scent. Beagles also adore food. They’ll do anything to get a few dinner leftovers from their owners, such as raid trash bags or beg at the table.
Beagles are even-tempered dogs. They aren’t timid or aggressive, and they enjoy making others laugh with their antics. Your dad will enjoy spending their free time with their new Beagle.
This breed is also affectionate, playful, and lively. It’s easy to make friends with a Beagle, so it won’t take long for your dad to build a bond with one!
6. Pug
Ah, Pugs. They’re such spunky dogs! Pugs are a beloved dog breed among owners, and there are plenty of reasons why. Despite their tiny size, Pugs are sturdy on the outside and inside.
They aren’t timid or intimidated by larger dogs, and like to assert themselves among the pack. Pugs are also a bit stubborn, but it’s a trait that they can be trained out of with consistent obedience training.
These little dogs have a dry sense of humor your dad will learn to appreciate. Of course, their scrunched-up faces make them look grouchy, but that’s far from how Pugs really are with their loved ones.
Pugs are affectionate and laidback. They get along well with other pets and even unfamiliar guests. This breed isn’t known to bark or chew excessively, and they’re tough enough to spend time around children.
True to their nature, Pugs are lapdogs at heart so it’s important to provide these dogs with lots of affection. They’re also voracious eaters and will try to eat at any opportunity.
As long as your dad doesn’t go overboard with feeding time, he’ll have a blast with his new Pug!
7. French Bulldog
There’s no other dog more laidback than a French Bulldog! Also known as Frenchies, French Bulldogs are a sturdy, low-maintenance breed with less of a bite (and more of a bark!).
Frenchies love to snooze on the couch to catch some z’s. They’re also happiest when they’re observing the action than taking part in it. While your dad is hard at work, he’ll have a small but mighty cheerleader on the sidelines for some support!
And yes, Frenchies are noisy. They aren’t aggressive, but they’re the type of dogs to make all kinds of noises, like whining, barking, and even farting.
Frenchies are even-tempered and calm. Despite their vocal personalities, this breed doesn’t lash out in a tantrum. They enjoy playing with their loved ones but only need a few minutes of exercise to stay fit!
8. Miniature Schnauzer
As the smallest of the three Schnauzer breeds, Miniature Schnauzers are highly intelligent, extroverted dogs that love their families more than they love themselves.
This breed is sweet-natured, preferring to play, snooze, and cuddle with their favorite member of the family. If your dad bonds with a Mini Schnauzer, he’s bound to have a little bearded dog stay by his side no matter what!
Mini Schnauzers are one of the most vocal dog breeds, especially around strangers and unfamiliar pets. But don’t worry, their bark is worse than their bite. When properly socialized, these little dogs are complete sweethearts with anyone they meet.
This breed is known for its extroverted personality, but they’re not clingy dogs. They can be left alone for hours without causing a mess in your home.
In fact, they’re so well-behaved that they’ll wait patiently for their favorite dad to greet him with kisses.
If there’s one thing Mini Schnauzers love the most, it’s their favorite human. A Mini Schnauzer that has bonded with its owner is their friend for life!
Dogs make amazing pets for dads. All canines share a deep affection for their loved ones, which causes them to be protective—just like any good dad!
Even smaller breeds like Chihuahuas and Yorkies can be great pets for your dad. What matters is that you take time to research your dad’s favorite dogs and ask if your dad is ready for one.
Fun Father’s Day gifts don’t need to be complicated. A puppy is a lifelong commitment but it’s one the father in your life will never regret having! We hope this list has helped you find the perfect Father’s Day gift for your husband or dad!