I met up with Dog Meat the other night. I am level 6. Found him in the scrapyard north of the Bethesda Ruins. I went there to investigate a note I found that was to Billy from his brother concerning something he hid there. Not sure where I found the note...I think I have had it a while. It wasn't even a real quest. Anyhow, I went to the scrapyard and 2 guys were guarding the south gate. I took them out and went inside. After wandering a bit, I came across Dog Meat and we teamed up. Haven't seen him in action yet, but it is nice to have the company.
Also, I haven't been following the Dad storyline yet. I was planning to do it when I happened to be in the neighborhood I guess...no real plans for a special trip to the radio station.