What to Write in a Birthday Card for Your Dad

Dads are notoriously hard to write for. He doesn't want a fuss, he'll probably read it once and put it on the mantelpiece, and "Happy Birthday Dad, hope you have a good one" has been the default for about fifteen years running.

You can do a bit better than that without it turning into something he'd be embarrassed to read out loud.

Here's a mix of warm, funny and straightforward birthday messages for Dad — whatever kind of relationship you've got.

Heartfelt Birthday Messages for Dad

For when you want him to know he means more than you usually let on.

• Happy Birthday Dad. Thank you for everything you've taught me, even the stuff I didn't want to hear at the time.
• Happy Birthday to the man who's always been there, even when I didn't say thank you enough. Love you Dad.
• You've spent your whole life looking after us. Happy Birthday, Dad — I hope today's about you for once.
• Happy Birthday Dad. I'm proud to be your kid, and I don't say that anywhere near enough.
• Wishing you a brilliant birthday, Dad. Everything good in me, I got from you.

Warm and Simple

For a relationship that's loving without needing to say too much.

• Happy Birthday Dad — hope you have a great day. Love you.
• Wishing you a wonderful birthday, Dad. Thanks for everything.
• Happy Birthday to the best Dad. Hope it's a good one.
• Happy Birthday Dad! Hope you're spoiled rotten today.

Funny Birthday Messages for Dad

For the dad who'd rather laugh than get soppy.

• Happy Birthday Dad. Still the funniest person I know, even though your jokes haven't improved.
• Another year older and still trying to fix things that don't need fixing. Happy Birthday Dad, never change.
• Happy Birthday to the man who taught me everything I know, including several things I probably shouldn't repeat.
• Happy Birthday Dad! Hope your day involves zero DIY and maximum biscuits.
• Happy Birthday to the original Dad joke enthusiast. We wouldn't have you any other way.

From the Grandchildren

A few lines if the little ones are signing too.

• Happy Birthday Grandad! We love you so much!
• Happy Birthday Grandad — you're the best!
• Happy Birthday! Love from [names].

Short and Simple

• Happy Birthday Dad — love you loads.
• Wishing you a brilliant birthday, Dad.
• Happy Birthday to a brilliant Dad. All our love.

Tips for Dad's Birthday Card

Say the thing you don't usually say. A lot of dads don't hear "thank you" or "I'm proud of you" nearly often enough. A card is a good excuse.

Keep his humour in mind. If your dad is more banter than sentiment, a card that's too soppy can feel like it's not really for him.

Mention something specific. Even one line about something he did this year makes the card feel like it was actually written for him.

Find His Birthday Card

Our birthday cards for dad are printed on 300gsm smooth matt card and posted across the UK, ready to make his birthday feel properly celebrated.

Looking for something for the rest of the family too? Browse our Father's Day cards and birthday cards collections for more.