155 Messages, Quotes, & Gestures to Say “Thanks, Dad”

Dads do so much good, and sometimes go without any recognition. If you want to tell your dad how much you appreciate him, read on for 155 meaningful ways to say “Thank you, Dad.” Below you'll find heartfelt and funny messages as well as ones specifically from son or daughter. We'll also include tips on how to personalize your messages and notes for your dad.

Top “Thank You Dad” Quotes

Heartfelt: The older I get, the more I realize how important it is to have a dad like you.
Short: Dad, you give Superman a run for his money.
Funny: Dear Dad, Thank you for always saying yes when Mom said no.
From Son: Thanks for all the ball games, stories, and all the time you've spent with me.
From Daughter: Dad, you’ve been my first love and my forever hero.

Section 1 of 12:

Heartfelt Thank You Dad Messages

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Share your truest feelings about what your dad means to you. Even if you don’t tell him how you feel every day, it’s important to let him know what a great dad he is from time to time. Use this opportunity to show him how thankful you are to have him as a father. Mention how he’s your superhero, best friend, teacher, and wise sage all in one.
- To the world, you might just be one person, but to me, you are the world. Thank you, Dad.
- I can say without any hesitation that you have shaped my life’s most beautiful moments. Thank you, Dad.
- It’s the strength of your love that has made me strong. Thank you, Dad, for being my rock.
- Every day with you as my dad feels like a piece of a love letter that never ends. Thank you for the never-ending love, Dad.
- The older I get, the more I realize how important it is to have a dad like you.
- You’re our hero, Dad. Thanks for always taking care of us and making us smile.
- Thank you for everything you've taught me and for always being there when I need you.
- Your love fuels my dreams, Dad. Thank you for always believing in me.
- You're the reason why our family has the life we have today. Thank you for everything.
- I truly don't know where I would be without your guidance, Dad. You're the best.
- You always say that you love us more, but I know that I love you endlessly, Dad.
- Pops, you're the man who's made me who I am today. Thanks for always being there.
- When it comes to dads, I don't think I could be any luckier. Celebrating you today reminds me just how much you touch those around you.
- Dad—you've made my life so much better. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
- Thank you for giving fatherhood your all. You've made me the person I am today.
- God took the strength of a mountain, the patience of eternity, and combined them to create the thing we call Dad.
- To my dad, the man who moves fire and earth for his family. Thank you for all the ways you go above and beyond every day.
- Everyone always says they have the best dad in the world, but that can't be right... because that man is right here with me. Cheers to you, Dad.^{[1]
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- Your patience, understanding, and endless support mean everything to me. Thank you for being an amazing dad.
- Thank you for teaching me to face life's challenges with courage and determination.^{[2]
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Section 2 of 12:

Short Thank You Dad Messages

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Short and sweet messages say thank you in an instant. Whether you’re including a note with a gift for your dad or posting on his social media page, these words of gratitude hit the nail on the head when it comes to being thankful. Show your enthusiasm for how much fun he brings to your family. Let him know he is the only true superhero in your book.
- To the man whose love has been my life’s constant melody: Thank you, Dad.
- To the world, you are a dad. To our family, you are the world.
- In the orchestra of my life, you’ve been the most cherished note.
- Your love has been the sunshine that brightened every cloudy day.
- In you, Dad, I saw the perfect blend of strength, love, and compassion.
- You make this family fun. We love you, Dad!
- Dad, you give Superman a run for his money.
- There's no better role model than you, Dad.
- There's no one I'd rather look up to than you.
- I’m so proud to be your kid!
- You’re my one and only dad, and you'll always have a special place in my heart.
- Dad, you’ve made all my favorite memories.
- There's no other father like you in the world.
- I would not be who I am today without you. Thank you, Dad!
- Dad, your guiding hand on my shoulder will remain with me forever.^{[3]
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Section 3 of 12:

Funny Thank You Dad Wishes

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Use humor to celebrate what a funny guy your dad is. It’s no secret that dad jokes can be pretty corny, but now’s your chance to be corny and appreciate him right back. Poke fun at his love for the remote control, or how often he wore sandals with socks. Mention how many times he said yes when your mom said no, but always focus on how much he makes you smile.
- Your dad jokes may be cheesy, but they’re the secret ingredient to my happiest days!
- Thanks for always pretending to be the horse, the dragon, and sometimes even the tea party guest. Love you, Dad!
- Dad, thank you for being the first one to laugh at my jokes… and sometimes the only one.
- Dad, thanks for always letting me believe that the remote control was magic in my hands.
- Thanks, Dad, for showing me that life’s about balance… and how to rock socks with sandals.
- For every dad joke that made me roll my eyes, thank you for the countless laughs that followed.
- Dad, thanks for proving that my search for the world’s loudest snorer was right at home.
- Thanks for always being my ATM, even if you sometimes forgot my PIN… or purposely got it wrong.
- Dad, your dance moves might be stuck in the last century, but thank you for always being the life of my party.
- For all the times you attempted to fix things and made them… let’s say, more interesting. Thanks, Dad!^{[4]
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- Gouda. Mozzarella. Brie. Sorry, this card is so cheesy, but I really love you, Dad!
- Dad, you may not know everything, but you sure had me fooled for a while.
- Dear Dad, Thank you for always saying yes when Mom said no.
- Dear Dad, Thanks for not leaving me somewhere in a bucket.
- World’s greatest farter … I mean father.^{[5]
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Section 4 of 12:

Thank You Dad Wishes from a Son

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Show your dad how proud you are to be his son. He may not know how much of an impact he had on you as a boy, but now is the chance to tell him. Remind him about all the lessons he taught you and all the ways he guided you. Let him know you’re the man you are today because of him.
- To my mentor, my friend, and my constant guide—thank you, Dad, for being my North Star.
- In the legacy of love, values, and courage, you’ve handed me the best inheritance. Thank you, Dad, straight from my heart.
- From throwing a ball to navigating life’s challenges, you’ve been my coach. Thank you, Dad.
- Dad, your wisdom has been my map, and your love, my compass. Here’s one of many thank you messages for you that I have in my heart.
- Every challenge I faced was easier knowing I had you backing me. Thank you, Dad, for believing in me.
- To the man who taught me that real strength lies in kindness and humility, thank you, Dad.
- Dad, every challenge became an opportunity with you by my side. Thank you for shaping my perspective.
- The man I’ve become is a reflection of the father you’ve always been. Grateful to you, always.
- In life’s journey, you’ve been both my compass and anchor. Thank you, Dad.
- From boyhood to manhood, your guidance has been my most treasured map.^{[6]
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- Thanks for the dad jokes, for teaching me to change a tire, and for so much more.
- I apologize for complaining about mowing the lawn for all those years! Thank you for everything, always, Dad.
- We've made so many amazing memories together over the years. What a gift!
- Thanks for all the ball games, stories, and all the time you've spent with me.
- You must have done something right since I turned out so well.

Section 5 of 12:

Thank You Dad Wishes from a Daughter

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Say thank you to your dad for being your protector. It’s easy to be a daddy’s girl when you’ve got a great dad by your side. Whether you rode on his shoulders or held his hand, he made a huge difference in your life as a girl. Now, say “I love you, Dad,” whether it’s his birthday, Father’s Day, or any occasion.
- Thank you for always making me feel like your little princess, no matter how old I get. You are the most amazing father of all time. Sending you tons of love.
- From braiding my hair to guarding my dreams, you’ve been my pillar. Thank you, Dad.
- To the man who held my hand and showed me the world, my heart echoes with thanking father quotes every day.
- With each twirl on your toes and a bedtime story, you’ve etched memories of love. Thank you for the tales of love, Dad.
- Dad, you taught me to be a princess not by giving me a crown, but by treating me like one. Thank you.
- Your shoulders, Dad, have been my perch from where I saw my dreams take flight. Thank you for lifting me high.
- Dad, you’ve been my first love and my forever hero.
- Every dream I chased was because I had you cheering me on. Thank you, Dad.
- Your arms were my first shelter, and your heart, my first home. Grateful for your endless love.
- In you, I found my biggest supporter and my dearest friend. Thank you, Dad.^{[7]
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- No matter how old I am, you'll always be my daddy.
- Thanks for always being there when I have a question about my car.
- You've set the standard for all of the men in my life.
- You'll always be the first man I ever loved.
- Thanks for giving me confidence. Thanks for giving me dreams.

Section 6 of 12:

Messages That Acknowledge Dad’s Sacrifices

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Recognize the many sacrifices your dad made for you. He may have worked super hard so you could go to college, or he gave up his free time to teach you how to drive. Speak about the ways your dad sacrificed things he cared about for the greater good of his family. Knowing that you noticed will mean the world to him, and let him know you love him.
- Dad, your silent sacrifices have always spoken volumes to my heart. Thank you.
- For every dream you set aside to make mine come true, I am eternally grateful.
- Thank you for teaching me that love isn’t always said aloud; sometimes, it’s a gentle touch or a sacrificing act.
- Your sacrifices, often silent and deep, have been the bedrock upon which my dreams stand tall. Thank you, Dad.
- The sacrifices you made often went unnoticed, but their impact didn’t. I deeply appreciate your selflessness.
- Every act of love, every lesson taught, every sacrifice made—I appreciate them all. Thank you, Dad.
- Your sacrifices and endless love have not gone unnoticed. I appreciate you more than you’ll ever know.
- Dad, for the dreams you let go to build mine, for the nights you stayed awake so I could sleep soundly, I deeply appreciate you.^{[8]
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- Every sacrifice you made, every late night you worked—I notice it all now. Thank you for giving us the best life possible.
- Dad, your sacrifices have been the foundation of my success. I owe you everything.
- Dad, your sacrifices and efforts will never go unnoticed. Thank you for being my everything.
- I know you worked long hours and missed out on things so we could have a better life. Thank you for everything you've done.
- The comfort I enjoy today is the fruit of your years of labor. Thank you, Dad.
- Every opportunity I have is because you put me first. Thank you for your sacrifices.
- Dad, I see now what it cost you to give us everything. Thank you.^{[9]
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Section 7 of 12:

Messages Thanking Dad for His Wisdom

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Honor how much wisdom and knowledge your dad passed on to you. Talk about the many times you asked for his advice, and got it. Share how many important life lessons your dad taught you when you weren’t even paying attention. Once he realizes what an impact he made on you, he’ll be that much prouder of who you are.
- It’s not the number of lessons, but the love in them that has made me who I am. Thanks, Dad.
- From life’s little lessons to life’s big adventures, I am grateful for every moment with you, Dad.
- Dad, your love has been my unfailing compass, always pointing me in the right direction.
- You’ve been the roots that kept me grounded, even when I aimed for the sky. Thank you, Dad.
- For every lesson taught and every mistake forgiven, thank you. Your patience has sculpted my soul.
- Dad, your wisdom has been my guiding light, and your courage, my inspiration. I appreciate you more with each passing day.
- For the countless lessons, both spoken and lived, I appreciate you, Dad.
- The lessons you’ve imparted and the love you’ve given have been my life’s true treasures. My heart is full of appreciation.^{[10]
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- Thank you for always being there with your love, guidance, and patience.
- Your strength, wisdom, and love have been my foundation. Thank you for everything, Dad.
- Dad, your wisdom has been my guiding light. Grateful for your presence in my life.
- Thank you for every hug, every word of wisdom, and every time you were there, Dad.
- Dad, your wisdom has been my anchor. I’m thankful for you every single day.
- I'm so lucky to have a dad who shares his wisdom and love so freely. Thank you for everything.
- The older I get, the wiser your advice becomes. Thanks for your patience, Dad.^{[11]
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Section 8 of 12:

Thank You Dad Wishes for Father’s Day

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Combine gratitude with Father’s Day wishes for a thoughtful message. Father’s Day is the ideal time to think about how much you appreciate all your dad has done for you and your family. When you wish him a Happy Father’s Day, don’t forget to mention why he’s the best dad in the world and how lucky you are to have him in your life to guide you.
- With a dad like you, every day feels like Father's Day. Love you always!
- Happy Father's Day to my role model and best friend. Thank you for being an incredible father and inspiration to us all.
- To the man who taught me to ride a bike, tie my shoes, and dream big—Happy Father's Day!
- Happy Father's Day to my biggest inspiration. I couldn't have done life without you by my side.
- I know every kid says this, but you're the best dad in the world. I mean it. Happy Father's Day.
- Happy Father's Day: Thank you for being my mentor and my biggest fan. Did I mention my style icon?
- Happy Father's Day: There's no one in the world like you. Hugs and kisses!
- Happy Father's Day to one sweet pop. I'm so lucky to have you in my life.
- Today's your day, Dad. Enjoy it, and know how loved you are.^{[12]
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- Wishing you a joyful Father’s Day filled with love and happiness! Thank you for guiding me through life.
- Whether I’m nearby or far away, Dad, I’m always so grateful for the wonderful father you are. Happy Father’s Day!
- Happy Father’s Day to my guiding light and closest friend. Thank you for being such an incredible dad and an inspiration to us all.
- Happy Father’s Day to the man who taught me life’s essential skills and encouraged me to pursue my dreams.
- Happy Father’s Day to the person who inspires me most. I couldn’t have navigated life without your support.
- Everyone says it about their dad, but I truly believe you’re the best in the world. Happy Father’s Day.

Section 9 of 12:

Thank You Dad Birthday Wishes

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Say happy birthday by thanking your dad for being amazing. Celebrate his special day by adding birthday card messages of gratitude for all the things he’s done for you. From childhood to now, he’s been your greatest champion, so make sure he knows what a superhero he is to you, especially on his birthday.
- You’ve always been my guiding light and biggest supporter. I’m so blessed to call you my father. Happy birthday, Dad!
- Thank you for your unconditional love, endless patience, and unwavering strength. Happy birthday, Dad, I love you!
- Happy birthday to the man who taught me the meaning of love, kindness, and perseverance. I love you, Dad.
- Dad, you’ve given me a lifetime of beautiful memories. I hope today brings you as much joy as you’ve given me. Happy birthday!
- Wishing a wonderful birthday to the dad who has been my hero in every way. I love you more than words can ever say.
- Happy birthday to the man who gave me the confidence to chase my dreams. Thank you for believing in me, Dad!
- You’ve always been my rock, my role model, and my best friend. Happy birthday, Dad!
- On your special day, I just want to say how grateful I am for you every single day. Happy birthday, Dad!
- I hope today you feel how deeply you’re appreciated, not just on your birthday, but always. Happy birthday, Dad!
- Happy birthday to the most loving and caring dad. You’re my greatest blessing.
- I hope your birthday is filled with the same love and happiness you bring to everyone around you. You’re truly one of a kind, Dad. Have a great day!
- Happy birthday, Dad! You’re my anchor in life’s storms and my cheerleader in all my successes.
- You’ve given me the gift of a lifetime—your love. Happy birthday to the best dad in the world.
- Happy birthday, Dad. You’re the foundation of our family, and I’m so grateful for all you do!
- I’m so proud to call you my dad. You’ve made every day of my life better just by being you. Happy birthday!^{[13]
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Section 10 of 12:

Famous Quotes About Dads

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Get inspired by famous quotes about the power of fatherhood. In addition to your own thoughts of gratitude, call on these well-known thank you Dad sayings that express so much about what being a dad means. They can get you started or stand in when you’re not sure what to say. These thank you Dad quotes are the perfect way to say “thanks, Dad” in a way he’ll never forget.
- "My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person: He believed in me." — Jim Valvano
- "My father didn’t tell me how to live. He lived and let me watch him do it." — Clarence Budington Kelland
- "Any man can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad." — Unknown
- "Dads are the most ordinary men who are turned by love into the biggest heroes, adventurers, storytellers, and singers of songs." — Pam Brown
- "A father is neither an anchor to hold us back nor a sail to take us there, but a guiding light whose love shows us the way." — Unknown
- "The older I get, the smarter my father seems to get." — Tim Russert
- "A father carries pictures where his money used to be." — Steve Martin^{[14]
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- "Lookin' back all I can say about all the things he did for me is I hope I'm at least half the dad that he didn't have to be." — Brad Paisley
- "Lately, all my friends are worried they're turning into their fathers. I'm worried I'm not." — Dan Zevin
- "My dad has always taught me these words: care and share." — Tiger Woods
- "Any fool can have a child. That doesn’t make a father. It’s the courage to raise a child that makes you a father." — Barack Obama
- "Life doesn’t come with an instruction book—that’s why we have fathers." — H. Jackson Browne
- “He was a father. That’s what a father does. Eases the burdens of those he loves.” — George Saunders
- "Everyone talks about the joy of having kids—blah, blah, blah. But I never knew how much I could love something until I looked in the faces of my children.” — Brad Pitt
- “I know a man whose arms carried me high on days that I felt low. A man whose arms I’ll never outgrow.” — Fathima Arshard^{[15]
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Section 11 of 12:

How to Personalize Thank You Dad Messages

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1
Express your love and admiration. The most important part of showing gratitude to your dad is saying it directly. Use words like “thank you,” “gratitude,” “appreciation,” and “acknowledge.” Be genuine when you tell him how important he is to you and how everything he’s giving you as a father has made you who you are. Some examples of appreciation messages are ahead:
- Thank you for everything you've taught me and for always being there when I need you.
- Thank you for always believing in me.
- Thank you for being an amazing dad.
2
Share specific examples of what a great dad he is. If you have a beloved childhood memory about your dad, include it in your thank-you message. Tell a story or an anecdote that connects how wonderful a dad he was in the past to who you are in the present. A short, but memorable story can touch his heart on Father’s Day, or any day. More examples follow:
- When you taught me to swim the summer I turned 5, I learned to believe in myself.
- I’ll always remember how lucky I was to have you walk me down the aisle at my wedding.
- When you took the time to teach me how to drive, you gave me all the confidence I needed in life.
3
Include inside jokes or family sayings. Make your dad happy with a message that includes a unique phrase or term that only your dad used, or one cherished by your family. If you had a particular name for your family car, include that, or mention a pet name he used to call you as a child. If he was famous for certain dad jokes he told over and over again, use them to let him know you love everything about who he is. Other examples are here:
- What did the ocean say to the beach?" "Nothing, it just waved.
- Remember how you used to call me Smarty? I really love that name.
4
Acknowledge his sacrifices. Dads make sacrifices every day to make life better for their children. Tell him that you recognize everything he gave up to be a great dad to you. Say thank you for every sacrifice he made by reminding him how thankful you are for him. Other ways to acknowledge his sacrifices are ahead:
- You worked long hours every week so I could graduate from college. I’ll never forget what you did for me.
- You gave up your passions to help me find mine, and I love you for it every day.
5
Pair your words with a photo. If you’re sending your dad a message of gratitude in a thank you card, or one for his birthday or Father’s Day, include a photo of the two of you. Seeing your face and reliving a happy memory will bring your message home completely. If you’re posting a thank you Dad message on his social media page, it’s even easier to attach a treasured family photo to warm his heart.^{[16]
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Section 12 of 12:

Other Ways to Express Gratitude to Your Dad

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Give him a thoughtful gift. It doesn’t need to be his birthday or Father’s Day to send your dad a meaningful gift to let him know how much you appreciate him. Think outside the box for a dad gift that relates to his favorite hobbies or passions. For instance, look for golf gifts for the dad who loves to hit the green, or a book on classic cars if that’s his favorite topic. For a memorable present, choose a personalized photo gift that he can keep nearby whenever he wants to see you again.
2
Spend quality time together. Whether you live near your dad or far away, it’s important to make time to be around him. Take him out to lunch or have him over for a Sunday family dinner. Take him to a museum or for a walk in nature. Or, just visit him and listen to his stories about life, wisdom, and being a dad. Cherish who he is by showing him you enjoy spending time with him one-on-one.
- If you can’t spend time with your dad in person, make time to call him on the phone or arrange a video call where you can see each other and talk about what’s going on in your lives.
3
Make a memory video. Putting together a video of memories for your dad helps celebrate who he is and say, “Thank you for all you do.” Gather old photos, mementos, stories, and any pre-existing video footage you can find. Ask other members of the family for anecdotes, messages, and video clips they want to share with him. Decide whether the video is nostalgic, humorous, or tailored to a theme.^{[17]
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- You can always hire a videographer to put the video project together if you’re not tech-savvy.