How to Prepare Your Dog for a Photo Session

Preparing your dog for a professional photo session takes a bit of planning, but the results are worth it. The key is ensuring your dog feels calm, comfortable, and ready to show their personality.

This guide covers everything you need to know, from timing your walk to choosing the right treats.

Exercise Before the Session

A well-exercised dog is a cooperative dog. Take your pup for a good walk or play session 1-2 hours before arriving at the studio.

The goal isn’t exhaustion—you want them calm but still alert and engaged. An overtired dog can look droopy in photos, while an under-exercised one might be too bouncy to capture well.

What works best

• A 30-45 minute walk at their usual pace
• Some fetch or tug-of-war to burn mental energy
• Avoid introducing new activities that might overstimulate them

Grooming and Presentation

Your dog doesn’t need to look show-ring perfect, but a bit of grooming goes a long way.

Bathing: If needed, bathe your dog 1-2 days before the session. Same-day baths can leave coats looking flat or fluffy in unpredictable ways.

Brushing: A thorough brush on the day removes loose fur and gives the coat a healthy appearance.

Eyes and nose: Gently clean any eye boogers or crusty bits. These are surprisingly visible in professional photos.

The Right Treats

Treats are essential tools in pet photography. They help direct attention, reward patience, and keep your dog engaged.

Treat Type	Pros	Cons
Soft training treats	Quick to eat, easy to handle	Can be messy
Cheese cubes	High value, most dogs love them	Can upset some stomachs
Dried liver	Very motivating	Strong smell
Their regular kibble	Familiar, no stomach issues	May not be exciting enough

Bring a variety and let your photographer know which ones your dog finds most motivating.

What to Bring

Pack a small bag with essentials:

• Their favourite treats (several types)
• A familiar toy or two
• Water bowl and fresh water
• Any props you’d like included (bandanas, bow ties)
• A towel for any drool or accidents

On the Day

Arrive a few minutes early so your dog can sniff around and acclimate to the new environment. Let them explore the space before we start shooting.

Stay relaxed yourself—dogs pick up on our energy. If you’re stressed about getting the perfect shot, they’ll sense it.

Key Takeaways

• Exercise your dog 1-2 hours before, not immediately before
• Groom 1-2 days ahead for best coat appearance
• Bring high-value treats they genuinely love
• Stay calm and let your dog set the pace
• Trust the process—personality shots often come from unplanned moments

Ready to book your session? Get in touch and let’s capture your dog’s unique spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long before a photo session should I walk my dog?

Aim for a good walk 1-2 hours before the session. This gives them time to burn off energy while allowing them to settle and not be too tired.

Should I bathe my dog before a photo session?

Yes, but do it 1-2 days before, not the same day. This allows their coat to regain its natural shine and texture.

What treats work best for dog photography?

Small, soft treats that can be eaten quickly work best. Avoid crunchy treats that create crumbs or take time to chew.