Photos of dads who claimed they didn’t want a pet

Dads often have a reputation for being stubborn, especially when it comes to admitting mistakes. Many start off insisting they don't want a pet—only to become completely smitten once one joins the family.

Whether they’d promised to steer clear of animals or just doubted that a pet would fit their lifestyle, these dads experienced heartfelt transformations. Here are some memorable moments when dads went from "no pets" to proudly declaring, “this is my best friend.”

Enjoying The Flame After A Year Of Denying The Cat

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Photo Credit: kerrycooper / Reddit
Photo Credit: kerrycooper / Reddit

This dad held out for over a year before agreeing to get a cat for his kids. But once he finally said yes, he turned into the family's biggest feline fan. Now, you’ll find him cozied up by the fire in autumn, sharing quiet moments with his cat—proving that even the toughest dads can soften when a furry friend comes into the picture.

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Please Don't Take Him!

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Photo Credit: DragonpaladinAlaine / Reddit
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After his child moved out, this dad's feelings about the cat did a complete 180. What started as wanting the cat gone turned into deep affection — just look at how gently he cradles his furry companion, almost like his own child. That kind of change is truly touching and shows how powerful the bond between humans and pets can be.

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Desperately Wanting To Catsit

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Photo Credit: aggressivepassion / Reddit
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That kind of sudden shift must feel pretty wild—going from firm "no pets" to full-on pet dad mode! This guy probably underestimated just how much joy a furry friend could bring. Now, instead of resisting, he's actually looking forward to some solo bonding time when the kids are away. Clearly, he’s not just warmed up to the idea—he’s totally all in. It’s amazing how a little furball can flip perspectives and steal hearts so fast!

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Can't Even Pet Cats But Now Watches Cat Videos With His

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That's such a sweet turnaround—from unsure and hesitant to full-on cat buddy! It’s funny how the simple act of watching cat videos together can become a bridge, showing how even the most doubtful dads can find a soft spot for their feline friends. Sometimes, it’s those quiet, unexpected moments that reveal the strongest bonds forming. Definitely proof that love for pets grows in the most surprising ways!

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Grumpy Dad Smiles While Holding Up Cat

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Photo Credit: EricSaysHey / Reddit
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Whenever this grumpy dad holds this cat up to the window to see outside, it's like his anger melts away for a moment. If cats don’t make him angrier, it’s clear he likes them for sure—there’s something about their calm presence that brings out his softer side.

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From Not Feeding A Feral Cat To Watching It Sleep

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Photo Credit: Missburr / Reddit
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This dad was firmly against feeding the feral cat at first, but before long, he had set up a heated cat house complete with a camera so the family could watch over it. Looks like someone had a change of heart!

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Dad: "No Animals Allowed In This House!" Also Dad:

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Photo Credit: meoconus / Reddit
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This animal definitely seems to have claimed its spot inside—right on someone's bed. This cat looks comfier than I’ve ever felt in my entire life.

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Didn't Let His Wife Get A Cat, Now Sleeps With It

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After resisting the idea of getting a cat for so long, he completely changed his tune. Now, he spoils the cat with a dab of cream cheese every morning and regularly takes naps cuddled up with him.

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"He's Only Going To Be In The Way, I’ll Step On Him"

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Photo Credit: llaisney / Reddit
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It seems like he's figured out how to avoid stepping on the little puppy, and honestly, it looks like these two are on their way to forming a solid bond. If the dog keeps sitting in that spot while dad's in the kitchen, we’re sure this adorable duo will have a strong relationship ahead.

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Pulling The Kitty Express

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Photo Credit: emmawiiwiiwii / Reddit
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This dad resisted letting his child have a pet, no matter how many times he begged. But once he finally got to play with a cat, he couldn't resist naming the box the "Kitty Express" and making train noises as he pulled it. Because, naturally, that's exactly what he would do!

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"We Can't Keep It"

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Photo Credit: pinche_whey / Reddit
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"We can't keep it," is what this dad said just 10 months before this picture was taken. It's clear, though, that in that short time, he and this pet have formed an incredible bond!

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He Hated Them At One Point

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Photo Credit: EuqirnehBR97 / Reddit
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Absolutely! Capturing those "I told you so" snapshots is pure gold—nothing beats the look on a dad's face when he finally caves to the charm of a pet he once swore off. Those heart-melting moments are the sweetest revenge for kids, showing that no amount of stubbornness can stand up to furry cuteness. Pets really do have a way of winning everyone over, no matter how tough the resistance!

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He Was Never A Dog Person, Now He Takes Yuki Everywhere

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You can tell by the snarl on his face that this man doesn't like all dogs. This one probably had to grow on him before he started taking it everywhere with him.

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He Never Wanted A Dog, But This One Helped Him Recover From A Stroke

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Photo Credit: DreamersEyesOpen / Reddit
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This dad never wanted a dog in his life. Four days after having a stroke, this little one helped him recover from it. It's safe to say he has a soft spot for dogs now.

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Caught Hugging The Dog He Didn't Want

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Photo Credit: mischkazelenyy / Reddit
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I get it, not everyone has the courage to admit they were wrong. This man had to get caught in the act of loving the very thing he once banished.

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How Else Do You Sit With Dogs?

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How else do you end up sitting with dogs after insisting you didn't want one? With the pup in your lap and your face hidden—trying to keep everyone from seeing just how happy you actually are.

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"Doc Brown Wants To Stay With Me When You Move Out"

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Before he was Doc Brown, he was only That Brown Dog. It's funny to see the progression of dads letting their guards down for the dogs of the world. Look at how big the smile is on that pooch!

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He Needs His Own Night Table!

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Photo Credit: Shamancito / Reddit
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Only a dad would think that a dog he never wanted needs a bed and a night table. He'll go make it himself then present it to the dog like he's a human.

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If He Doesn't Bond With Your Cat, Is He Even Your Dad?

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Photo Credit: lily_r_g / Reddit
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If at first he didn't want the cat, but he ends up bonding with it the most, then he's definitely your dad. If that isn't the case, then he isn't a real father.

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It Took Three Years To Convince Him

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Photo Credit: ebrambles / Reddit
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It took three years to convince this man to get a dog, but only as long as it wouldn't get on the bed or furniture. This is the image his girlfriend took.

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He Was A Firm Opponent Of The Hairless Cat

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Photo Credit: literallyironic11 / Reddit
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It turns out hairless is how this dad likes it. He can put the cat in his shirt and the hair won't shed because it doesn't have any! They say skin-to-skin is the best way to connect.

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Dressed The Dog In His Daughter's Childhood Dress

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Photo Credit: pleasecreatemyacc / Reddit
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It's funny how fast people will change their tune when it comes to animals. He didn't want the dog, but soon, he dressed him up in his daughter's childhood dress. He had saved it for his first granddaughter!

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"We Are Never Getting A Cat" —My Husband

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Photo Credit: kariiann / Reddit
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This cat is the king of all cats with this structure she has going for herself. One thing a husband can do is make something he likes fun, so building this was a treat for him.

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Plays Guitar For Them After Not Wanting To Adopt

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An animal will have you doing things you thought you'd never succumb to, like playing live music for them every night. These little guys get a free show before going to sleep.

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"We're Not Getting A Dog. Period."

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Photo Credit: princejoopie / Reddit
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He got a dog and became a world-class artist because of it. No one predicted he would start drawing portraits of the dog's head after only seven months of owning the pooch.

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Was Never A Cat Guy

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Photo Credit: OllyPolly / Reddit
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Her husband was never a cat guy. Now, he informs her of the correct way to pet them, and they don't fight when sitting around him. It's like they trained each other.

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From "I Don't Want That Dang Cat" To Carrying Her Each Night

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Here is the face of a man who stands corrected. When you can carry a cute creature like that cat every night, there's no way you're going to turn that down.

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Are You Comfy? Do You Want Some Pets?

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Photo Credit: grapefruitmaven / Reddit
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How can you meet a cat and the first thing that comes to your mind is getting rid of it? That's how this dad was until things changed for the better.

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Cried At The Shelter

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People never expect to go from not liking dogs to crying at the shelter when one sits on your lap. The puppydog eyes are probably what made him switch so fast.