HOW TO PREPARE
FOR YOUR DOG'S PHOTO SESSION

Showing up to a new experience with your dog can be stressful for some. To ease your mind, here are some of my tips to help you prepare for your photoshoot. First, if you haven't already, make sure you fill out your pre photoshoot questionnaire form. This info helps me get to know your dog a bit better and make a good first impression.

1. HAIRCUTS - If you have a fluffy dog (ex. poodle mixes) you're likely wanting to plan their next haircut around your session. When they first get their hair cut they can look a little goofy (I know my dog does) so I recommend booking 1-2 weeks before your session. This allows the hair to go back to its natural state but is still clean/groomed. If you love that fluffy post haircut look and want it to be fresh - I recommend booking your grooming appointment a couple days before your session. I would avoid booking the groom on the same day as your photoshoot as the groomer can be stressful and tiring for some dogs. Lastly, if you want a SUPER fluffy dog, no haircut- I recommend trimming up around their eyes for more visibility.

2. DON'T OVER EXERCISE YOUR DOG. Many clients feel that they need to burn their dogs energy before a session but actually we LOVE the energy (that's how we get all the action shots)! The photoshoot itself can be a mentally and physically tiring experience. We recommend satisfying your dogs needs but not overexerting them. If a dog is too tired during their session, they aren't as interested in participating.

3. TREATS. Lets be honest... we bribe the dogs for their love! We give a lot of treats throughout the session to help condition the dogs to the equipment, to make ourselves more exciting and to positively reinforce the things we are asking them to do. For smaller dogs or dogs with smaller appetites, we recommend reducing their meal prior to their session or not feeding them all together (depending on the dog). This will keep them motivated and interested, plus it avoids any potential upset tummies. This is not necessary for all dogs, you know your pup best!

4. CAN I HAVE A PHOTO WITH MY DOG? Heck yes! If you'd like to jump in for a couple photos with your dog you are more than welcome to - we encourage it!

5. PROPS. We have a few props that we keep on hand, such as: flower crown, glasses, bubbles and sugar free peanut butter (not exactly a prop but makes for cute photos). You are welcome to bring whatever you'd like to your session. If you have anything you'd like photographed such as, a favorite toy, dog bed, dog clothes, memorabilia, etc- bring it, we have seen it all! Now that being said, props aren't for everyone. Don't feel obligated to use any of ours or to bring anything with you. If I'm being honest, a naked dog is the best option.

6. ALLERGIES. Some dogs have a long list of foods they are allergic too. We have many many different treats on hand but, just incase, I recommend bringing their own high value treats. This will assure they have something that we will be able to give them. Modelling is not as fun without payment!

7. Lastly, I recommend leaving a bit earlier than you typically would for an appointment. Some of our sessions are held in cities and it can take time to find parking. Plus we want to give your dog a few minutes to sniff around outside and have a quick potty break before coming inside. Personally when I am feeling even the slightest bit rushed, I'm anxious. Our dogs can be really intuitive to our emotions. However, know we are humans too, if you're running a couple minutes late, we get it (Trraffic can sometimes be so unpredictable) just try to stay as calm as possible to set your dog up for success in their photoshoot!.

I am ALWAYS here if you have any questions whatsoever - please ask! It will ease your mind and make this an even more enjoyable experience than it already will be!

Cannot wait to meet you and your pup!

Best,
Bill and the Fuzzy Pupper Studio team
Call or text 352-584-9250
[email protected]