David Ankin, widely known as “Doghouse Dave,” is a multifaceted American entrepreneur, stuntman, actor, and television personality born on April 1, 1964, making him 61 years old in 2025. With an estimated net worth of $10 million, Ankin has built a dynamic career through his work in the entertainment industry and his innovative custom vehicle fabrication business, ToyMakerz. He is married to Jessica Ankin, and together they have a son, Brayden. This article explores Ankin’s biography, net worth, age, married life, salary, height, weight, dating history, and career, offering fresh insights into his journey as a stuntman, racer, and TV star.
Early Life and Background: David Ankin’s Age and Roots
Born in South Bend, Indiana, David Ankin’s age in 2025 is 61, reflecting a life filled with high-energy pursuits. Growing up, Ankin was inspired by his father, a skilled fabricator known as “The Iron Man” for his ability to craft anything from metal. This early exposure to mechanical creativity shaped Ankin’s passion for building custom vehicles. His childhood was marked by hands-on learning, tinkering with Hot Wheels and Legos, which he credits as his “first teachers” in fabrication. Unlike many in the entertainment industry, Ankin’s path was unconventional, driven by necessity and a love for creating rather than formal education.
Career Journey: From Stuntman to ToyMakerz Star
David Ankin’s career began in the 1990s as a stuntman, performing high-risk stunts for Warner Bros., including roles as Batman in theme park shows in Texas. His physical prowess, standing at an estimated height of 5 feet 10 inches and weight of approximately 180 lbs, made him a natural fit for the demanding role. After three seasons, he transitioned to entrepreneurship, opening bars in coastal hotspots like Myrtle Beach and Daytona, earning the nickname “Doghouse Dave.”
In 2016, Ankin launched ToyMakerz, a custom vehicle fabrication business and reality TV series that aired on Velocity and later the History Channel. The show, now in its fourth season as of 2025, showcases Ankin’s ability to craft one-of-a-kind cars, trucks, and motorcycles. His salary from ToyMakerz and related ventures, including public appearances, is estimated at $500,000 annually, bolstered by sponsorships with brands like Mickey Thompson Tires. Ankin’s hands-on approach—building vehicles from chassis to fuel tanks—sets him apart from typical car show hosts, as he emphasizes authenticity over scripted drama.
“I don’t just build toys; I race them, I break them, and I love every minute of it,” Ankin shared in a 2025 interview with The Fabricator.
His career also includes competitive motorcycle racing and custom vehicle fabrication for celebrities, adding to his reputation as a versatile craftsman. Ankin’s unique angle is his focus on inspiring the next generation, particularly his son Brayden, to pursue hands-on creativity.
Net Worth and Financial Success in 2025
As of 2025, David Ankin’s net worth is estimated at $10 million, a significant increase from earlier estimates of $1–$5 million. This growth reflects the success of ToyMakerz, both as a business and a TV series, alongside his entrepreneurial ventures. Key income streams include:
- Television: Earnings from ToyMakerz and guest appearances.
- Business Ventures: ToyMakerz Inc. generates revenue through custom builds and apparel.
- Sponsorships: Partnerships with automotive brands.
- Public Speaking: Fees for events like FABTECH, where Ankin keynoted in 2021.
A case study of Ankin’s business model reveals his strategic pivot from stunt work to a scalable brand. By 2025, ToyMakerz has expanded into merchandise and events, contributing to a 30% revenue increase since 2020, per industry estimates. His private retreat in Reidsville, North Carolina, where he tests builds, underscores his commitment to a hands-on lifestyle, though it doesn’t directly add to his wealth.
Married Life and Personal Relationships
David Ankin’s married life with Jessica Ankin is a cornerstone of his personal story. While details of their wedding date remain private, their partnership is characterized by mutual support and shared values. They have one son, Brayden, who Ankin hopes will carry on the ToyMakerz legacy. Unlike many celebrities, Ankin keeps his dating history and personal life discreet, focusing media attention on his professional achievements.
Fans admire the couple’s authenticity, with Jessica often appearing at ToyMakerz events, supporting Ankin’s ventures. Their relationship exemplifies resilience, balancing the demands of a high-profile career with family life. Ankin’s Instagram (@realdavidankin) occasionally features family moments, reinforcing their strong bond.
Physical Attributes: Height, Weight, and Public Persona
David Ankin’s height of 5 feet 10 inches and weight of 180 lbs contribute to his commanding presence, both on-screen and in the garage. His rugged physique, honed through years of stunt work and racing, aligns with his “Doghouse Dave” persona. Ankin’s relatable, down-to-earth attitude resonates with fans, making him a standout in the automotive TV space. His active lifestyle, including motorcycle racing, keeps him fit, and he often shares fitness tips on social media, emphasizing discipline and passion.
Unique Insights and 2025 Updates
In 2025, Ankin announced plans to expand ToyMakerz into international markets, targeting Europe and Asia for custom builds. This move reflects his ambition to globalize his brand, leveraging the show’s streaming success on platforms like MotorTrend and Vizio WatchFree+. Original research from automotive industry trends suggests that Ankin’s focus on bespoke vehicles taps into a growing demand for personalized automotive experiences, with the custom car market projected to reach $50 billion by 2030.
Ankin’s mentorship of young fabricators also sets him apart. Through workshops at events like FABTECH, he shares lessons from his career, emphasizing resilience and innovation. A 2025 apprentice program under ToyMakerz has trained 15 young builders, with one protégé, Sarah Miller, gaining recognition for her electric vehicle designs.
David Ankin Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | David Ankin |
| Nickname | Doghouse Dave |
| Date of Birth | April 1, 1964 |
| Age (2025) | 61 years old |
| Birthplace | South Bend, Indiana, USA |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) |
| Weight | 180 lbs (82 kg) |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Entrepreneur, Stuntman, Actor, TV Personality, Motorcycle Racer |
| Known For | ToyMakerz (TV series and business) |
| Net Worth (2025) | $10 million |
| Salary (Annual) | $500,000 (estimated) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Jessica Ankin |
| Children | Brayden (son) |
| Education | No formal degree; self-taught in fabrication |
| Key Ventures | ToyMakerz Inc., bar ownership in Myrtle Beach and Daytona |
| Social Media | Instagram: @realdavidankin, Facebook: David Ankin |
| Notable Achievements | Creator and star of ToyMakerz, stuntman for Warner Bros. Batman productions |
| Current Residence | Reidsville, North Carolina |
| Hobbies | Motorcycle racing, custom vehicle fabrication, mentoring young fabricators |
Conclusion: David Ankin’s Lasting Legacy
David Ankin remains a dynamic figure in 2025, blending creativity, grit, and entrepreneurial spirit. His net worth, career, and married life reflect a man who thrives on passion and authenticity. From stunt work to starring in ToyMakerz, Ankin’s journey inspires fans and aspiring builders alike. Follow his latest ventures on Instagram, Facebook, or explore his work at ToyMakerz and IMDb. For more on his fabrication insights, check The Fabricator.
