Can Dogs Be Included in Family Photos? Absolutely.
One of the questions I get asked fairly often is, “Can our dog be in our family photos?”
My answer is almost always yes.
In fact, I think it’s almost a non-question. Of course your dog should be included in your family photos!
For many families, dogs aren’t just animals. They’re family members. Often, when couples have children, they’ve already had their dog for years. Those dogs were the original babies long before human babies came along ;)
Because of that, I believe beloved pets deserve a place in family photographs.
Pets Are Part of Your Story
Family photo sessions with me aren’t about creating some perfectly curated version of life. It’s about documenting the people and relationships that matter most to you.
And that includes the four-legged family members.
If I’m photographing a family at home, pets naturally become part of the story. They’re laying on the couch, following the kids around, or curling up beside Mom and Dad.
When clients ask me whether they can bring their dog to their family photo session, the answer is almost always yes, although location sometimes matters. Certain beaches and parks around Vancouver don’t allow dogs, so we’ll always consider the location when planning the session.
But whenever possible, I encourage families to include them.
Some of My Favorite Newborn Moments Involve Dogs
One of the sweetest things I’ve witnessed during in-home newborn sessions is watching dogs interact with their new little human siblings.
They’re often incredibly curious.
I’ll see them peeking over the edge of the bed, trying to understand who this tiny new person is. Sometimes they circle around the family, and it almost feels like they’re standing guard over the newest addition.
Those moments are incredibly heartwarming.
They’re also completely genuine.
As a photographer, I love documenting those interactions because they’re part of the story of welcoming a baby into the family.
The Photos Become Even More Meaningful With Time
I’ve photographed families whose dogs were there when their babies were born, only for those beloved pets to pass away a few years later.
Those photographs suddenly become priceless.
Nobody knows how much time we have with the people and animals we love. That’s one reason I believe so strongly in including pets whenever possible.
Years later, families aren’t looking back and saying, “I wish we hadn’t brought the dog to our family photos.”
If anything, I think people are much more likely to regret leaving their pets out.
You Don’t Need a Perfectly Behaved Dog For Great Family Photos
One thing I hear all the time is:
“Our dog is crazy.”
Honestly, I hear the exact same thing about kids 🤫
Parents often apologize before the session even begins because they think their dog is too energetic or their family is too chaotic.
Some of the best photographs come from the chaos.
I know that sounds cheesy, but it’s true.
Real life is messy. Kids fall down in the grass. Knees get stained. Hands get muddy. Dogs get excited. Someone isn’t looking at the camera.
That’s life.
Worrying About Ruining the Session Is What Ruins the Session
Sometimes families worry that bringing their dog will ruin the session. I actually think worrying about ruining the session is what ruins the session.
If you’re okay with a little bit of mess and unpredictability, then we’re probably a great fit. Because family photography isn’t about perfection.
It’s about connection.
Tips for Including Your Dog in Family Photos
After photographing many families and their pets, here are a few things that can help:
- Bring dog treats and rewards
- Keep your dog on a leash outdoors for safety.
- Let your photographer hold some treats to help build trust and get your dog’s attention.
- Consider bringing another adult or family member who can help if we want a few photographs without the dog.
- Embrace the unexpected.
Keeping your dog safe during our outdoor adventures is my priority. I’ve temporarily secured leashes to posts or benches when needed so everyone stays safe while we create different combinations of images.
And while I’ll absolutely try to get that classic image with everyone looking at the camera (including the dog) I don’t obsess over perfection.
Lifestyle Moments Matter More Than Perfect Poses
Energetic dogs can be fun! In fact, they often add to the lifestyle feel of the session.
A dog running through the grass, cuddling beside the kids, or curiously watching the baby can create moments that feel authentic and full of personality.
Those are the images that tell a story.
And ultimately, storytelling is what family photography is all about.
So, Should You Include Your Dog in Your Family Photos?
My answer is simple.
Yes. Bring the dog, the muddy paws and the imperfect moments.
Because years from now, I believe families are far more likely to regret leaving their pets out than they are to regret dealing with a little bit of chaos.
And if your dog is a big part of your everyday life, they deserve to be part of the memories you preserve, too.
