Last Updated on June 13, 2026 by Lexi Kisses
Spankings, humiliation, and mental manipulation don’t encompass the entire idea of what a Dom can be. There are many types of sexual Doms out there, and not all of them fall into the sadistic category; which might come as a surprise considering mainstream content.
Disclaimer: All these dynamics require that all parties involved are consenting adults. Some of these Dom types might seem harsh or extreme, but it’s important to remember the sub involved (in a healthy BDSM relationship) is completely consenting and wants these things!
What is a Dominant (Dom)?
A Dominant is the one in charge in a Dom & sub relationship. They call the shots and have the final say. There’s not much more to it than that.
They can be harsh, strict, caring, and/or anything in between. The term Domme sometimes describes a female dom, but I find that in general, Dom is a gender-neutral term to describe the one who’s calling the shots.
The Types of Doms
Caregivers
A Caregiver is a type of Dom who takes on the nurturing role of a caretaker. A caregiver’s responsibilities will vary vastly based on what kind of submissive they are caring for or desire. Care can range anywhere from changing diapers, making meals or enforcing rules.
Caretakers are commonly referred to as Mommy or Daddy* by their sub/s. Though, those titles are not required. Caregivers are extremely common in the caregiver little (CGL) community, but you can find them in other dynamics as well.
Brat Tamers
Brat Tamers are doms who like disobedience. These Doms usually get pleasure out of finding new ways to discipline their submissives. Their ultimate goal is to conquer their sub’s rebellious side; over and over again.
Brat Tamers are commonly seen within the CGL kink community, but their presence isn’t limited to there. If there’s a naughty sub out there, there will be a Brat Tamer to spank them!
Masters/Mistresses (Owners)
A Master/Mistress (genderless, use what you want) is a dom who desires complete servitude and obedience from their sub. A Master’s responsibility is to protect, take care of, and have their sub’s best interests at heart.
These relationships are usually 24/7, with negotiated exceptions. This dynamic often involves the sub having daily rituals to do for the Master. The Master may also require these rituals be done in a certain way. For example, kneeling before them before you hand over their coffee.
It’s also common to see a Master require a sub to ask permission to do things like use the bathroom or go to bed. In most cases, the Master regards their sub as property. Whether it’s valued or devalued property is up to the kink.
Findoms
Have you ever wanted to be a human ATM? Well, then a Findom might be right for you!
A Findom is a Dom who wants money, gifts and/or financial control. These Doms seek out submissives known as paypigs or money slaves. These subs get off on spoiling their Doms with money and admiration.
A Findom thrives off of being adored and will reward their sub with any type of attention they want (usually full-blown degradation).
Handlers (Pet Trainers/Masters/Owners)
A Handler is a type of dom who desires to care for a human (who pet plays) the way someone would a pet. This type of care ranges considerably because it depends on the type of pet (sub) the handler is taking care of.
For example, if a handler is caring for a pet cat (human sub), they might leave a bowl of milk out, play laser with them or scold them for being on the furniture. There are different types of pets out there, from horses to dogs; so the type of care depends on those factors.
Handlers are also referred to as pet trainers, owners, and/or Masters.
Final Thoughts
When it comes down to it, there is no cookie-cutter term to describe all dominants because all of them are unique and different. These terms just provide you with a general idea of what a title instills, not a full-encompassing image.
A dominant can be a mix of all these titles, or they can be none of them (they may even be a few of them). There are infinite types of doms out there and the only thing that matters is that everyone in the power exchange is happy with their roles.
*Both of these titles are genderless to me. Use what makes you comfortable and/or turns you on. I’ve seen Daddies who identify as female.
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