If you decide to take your dog for Santa photos, there is a lot you can do to prepare your dog for a successful shoot.
Prior to the day
- Practice sit/down stay = sitting or lying in a ‘pose’ for up to 30 seconds plus leaving your dog at a distance if you don’t want to be in the photo.
- Practice mat/place training = settle cue
- Practice posing with your dog
- Have someone dress up in a santa costume and practice at home. While this may sound ‘silly’, it can really help!
On the day
- Plan ahead. Make sure you toilet your dog before you arrive or leave some time at the venue.
- Be on time, don’t rush. Give your dog time to settle.
- Make sure your dog is hydrated.
- Be prepared for hot weather.
- Be prepared to abort – especially if your dog is showing signs of stress.
For tips on preparing your dog, reading their body language, and making photo day calmer and more enjoyable, read our full article: How to Make Santa Photos a Positive Experience for Your Dog here.