How To Prepare Your High-Energy Dog for a Photoshoot

I’m going to let you in on a little secret: I love energetic dogs! Why? Their energy brings so much variety to a photoshoot. Since they’re always on the go, there are plenty of opportunities to capture a myriad of poses totally being themselves. Over the years, I’ve worked with countless energetic pups and developed several tricks to ensure their photo session is a success.

Preparing your dog appropriately ahead of time and knowing what to expect during your session will make the experience even better for both of you. Read on for some of my expert tips on how to best prepare your dog, and what to expect during our time together!

Pre-Shoot Exercise Tips

One of the most obvious ways to get a little extra focus from your dog is with exercise earlier on the day of the session. That said, some dogs actually “spin up” with a lot of exercise and become even more energized afterward! You know your dog best, so if exercise helps them settle (or at least not get more excited), a brisk outing earlier in the day can be a good idea.

Arriving at the session location a little early and going for a short walk can also be super helpful. For a lot of Colorado dogs, the sight of a trailhead means it’s time to hike! A short pre-session walk on location can help them adjust to the setting, release a bit of energy, and settle in, all while keeping them alert and engaged.

Pack a Variety of High- (and Low-) Value Treats

Treats are key for keeping your dog focused, and high-value treats can be an especially effective tool for rewarding calm behavior. However, if your dog tends to get overly excited about these treats, consider also bringing some lower-value ones. This way, we can reward their good behavior without kicking off a little too much enthusiasm!

Small, easy-to-chew treats work best, as they won’t leave crumbs or take long to eat. Keeping treat breaks quick and seamless helps maintain the flow of our session and keeps your dog’s energy balanced.

Teach Your Dog This One Essential Trick

Let me guess, did you think I was going to say “sit” or “stay”? Not quite! Instead, I highly recommend teaching your dog to hop up onto objects like rocks, logs, or benches. Many energetic dogs find this to be a fun game, and once they’re up on the object, it helps them stay still for just long enough to create a great photo.

This little trick works wonders and adds a playful dynamic to the session. It’s also a safe way to channel their energy, helping me create photos that capture their fun personality.

Planning Breaks During the Shoot

During our session, I make sure to allow for plenty of breaks, especially with more energetic dogs. These breaks provide mental resets, water, and a chance to refocus, helping to balance your dog’s energy and keeping them comfortable. We’ll keep things light and fun, ensuring your dog feels happy and relaxed, which helps create authentic, personality-filled photos.

What to Expect in the Photoshoot Environment

Every session location is tailored to the individual needs of your dog. If your dog needs a quiet, distraction-free location please let me know ahead of time. This setup allows your dog to be themselves without being overstimulated by other distractions. Safety and comfort are my top priorities, and having an atmosphere suited to your dog’s personality helps them stay focused, making the experience more enjoyable for both of you.

It also helps if everyone, both humans and pets, brings a relaxed, positive energy. Your dog picks up on your emotions, so a calm approach helps create an ideal atmosphere, giving them the confidence to relax in front of the camera.

Embrace Your Dog’s Personality

Finally, the best advice I can give: embrace your dog’s personality! Their unique quirks, bursts of energy, and playful behavior are exactly what make them so lovable. These traits are what we want to capture, as they reflect the joy of your life together. So, let them be themselves. That’s where the magic happens!

By following these tips, you’ll help set the stage for a successful, stress-free session where your dog can truly shine. Their energy and personality are what make the photos unique, turning your session into a collection of memories that will make you smile for years to come.