Here are some tips to make sure your dog is prepared for their pet photo session. 

I have four recommendations:

One of the first things I recommend is having your dog groomed a week or so beforehand.  You will want your dog to have a clean but natural looking appearance so I recommend grooming far enough in advance that it doesn't look too unnatural.  Unless of course, your dog is always perfectly groomed, then just keep doing what you are doing!  Keep in mind grooming is definitely not required since many of our clients do not have their dogs professionally groomed before the session.  It's just something to consider.  However, if your dog has long fur I do recommend trimming fur around the eyes before the session.  Wouldn't want to hide their wonderful expressions!

The second recommendation is for those dogs who have a high energy level.  For those dogs I suggest taking your dog for a walk either the morning of the session or the evening before (if you have a sunrise session).  This allows them to get a small bit of energy out, and makes them a littler easier to work with at the session.  Though we do understand they are still likely to have a ton of energy when we start shooting.  After all, it is a new setting, with new people, and new toys and treats!

Third thing I recommend is to give your dog less food than usual the day of their pet portrait session.  This could involve giving them half a bowl of food for dinner or just less throughout the day.  If they are treat motivated this means your dogs are more likely to respond favorably at the session since they are hungry and want the treats.  If your dog is excessively treat motivated (absolutely obsessed) then you can likely feed them normally the day of the session since they will still want the treats we are offering anyway.

Finally,  I recommend  working a bit on your dog's training the week before the session.  This only applies if your dog is actually trained.  Just review sit and stay and practice it a bit.  If your dog is not well trained do not worry at all.  To be honest most dogs we work with are not perfectly trained, and some are not trained at all.  Our pet photographer will still get amazing images guaranteed!  

All of the above recommendations are completely optional, and if you have questions feel free to give me a call at (250) 252-1143 or email photos@kimyanick.com