Hah! My dad was the "not little dog" type, until he found Bubba. Oh gosh this dog is ugly, mutty, too long, part terrier, white and always looks like he's been rolling in mud for a week. Needless to say, Dad loves Bubba, but he's not the type of man that will let the dog sleep in the bed. I was shocked to find he had actually bought Bubba toys to play with. Dad's a redneck (would be the first to admit it) and previously thought all dogs should be outside all the time. Well, Dad even let Bubba on the couch! Dad's come a long way and I'm proud of him. He hasn't met Luca Dean yet though -- we'll see how that goes.
Your dad kinda looks like Steven King!