Including Your Dog in Your Engagement Photos

Thinking about letting your furry friend join you for your engagement photos? This guide is for you.

You are in love. You have a ring on your finger. You are planning a wedding that reflects who you are as a couple. And now it is time for the engagement session, those joyful, relaxed photos that capture the in-between. And if your dog is part of your everyday life, it makes perfect sense to include them too.

Whether your dog is a calm couch snuggler or an energetic explorer, you can absolutely bring them along. But a little planning will go a long way in making sure things go smoothly and that your session is still enjoyable for everyone involved.

Here are all my best tips for including your pup in your engagement session without stress, chaos, or forgetting what the day is really about your connection.

1. Confirm if Your Chosen Location Allows Dogs

Not all photo locations allow dogs, so this is the first thing to check before making any big plans. For example, the Toledo Botanical Garden is beautiful, but unfortunately, dogs are not allowed there. Many nature preserves, gardens, and historical sites have restrictions in place. This is one of the downsides of including your dog in engagement photos, but keep in mind you can always book a package with your photographer that allows you to have multiple locations!

Make sure to ask your photographer or call ahead to confirm the pet policy at any location you are considering.

2. Think About Your Dog’s Schedule and Energy Levels

Just like people, dogs have energy rhythms. Some are early risers. Some get the zoomies in the evening. You know your dog best, so schedule the shoot for a time when they are at their best.

The ideal window is usually early in the morning or during golden hour in the evening. These times not only offer the best lighting for your photos, but they are also generally cooler and quieter, which helps reduce distractions for your dog.

Keep in mind that most dogs will only have the focus and patience for about 15 to 30 minutes of photo taking. After that, they will likely need a break. Plan for dog-friendly photos at the beginning of your session, so your pup can relax while we capture more intimate shots of just the two of you later on.

3. Bring a Trusted Friend or Family Member

This is one of the most important tips of all. Bring someone your dog knows and trusts who can take care of them after their part in the shoot is done. This person can help get their attention during photos, hold the leash when needed, and walk them around while the rest of your session continues.

Whether it is a friend, sibling, or grandparent, having an extra person there will help things run smoothly and give you peace of mind. You will not have to worry about what your dog is doing or where they are, and your photos will be better for it.

Make sure to let this person know their role ahead of time, and maybe bring a comfy blanket or dog bed so your pup can hang out and rest if needed.

4. Bring High Value Treats and Toys

Nothing keeps a dog’s attention like their favorite treat. Whatever it is that gets your dog’s full focus, whether it is a squeaky toy, a piece of chicken, or a crunchy biscuit, bring it with you. Actually, bring a few.

Treats are the key to getting your dog to look at the camera, hold still, or just stay in one place long enough to snap the photo. You can also use toys or even a special word to spark their attention.

A little preparation here goes a long way. You will be surprised how much smoother things go when your dog is motivated to participate.

5. Dress Them Up (Comfortably)

If you are taking the time to coordinate your outfits and create a certain vibe, do not forget your dog’s accessories. A small detail like a bow tie, cute bandana, or floral collar can tie everything together without making your pup uncomfortable. There are tons of cute options on Etsy!

Make sure anything they wear is breathable and fits well. You do not want them itching or trying to escape their new look halfway through the session.

Some ideas to consider:

• A bandana in your wedding colors
• A bow tie or collar tag with your wedding date
• A leash that matches your outfits

Keep it simple, keep it safe, and make it cute.

6. Give Them a Bit of Exercise Beforehand

One of the best tricks to keep a dog calm during a photo session is to take them on a walk or play with them a bit beforehand. Including your dog in engagement photos is fun…but not when you have to chase them all over the park. The goal is not to wear them out completely, but to let them release a little energy so they are not bouncing all over the place when the camera comes out.

Think of it like this: a little fetch before the session can save us from chasing them down later. Just be sure not to overdo it. You still want your pup to have enough energy to participate and look alert in the photos.

7. Be Flexible and Embrace the Chaos

Even with all the planning in the world, dogs are still dogs. They might get muddy. They might refuse to sit still. They might photobomb your kiss or bark at a bird mid-pose. That is all part of the charm.

Rather than trying to force perfect behavior, be ready to laugh it off and go with the flow. Some of the best and most memorable photos happen when you least expect them.

If your pup is doing their thing, we will capture it. These candid, authentic moments often end up being your favorites because they feel real. And that is exactly what we want.

8. Do a Trial Run

If you are unsure how your dog will do in front of the camera, try a mini photo session at home. Practice having them sit and stay while someone else takes pictures of you two together. See how they respond to commands and distractions. Including your dog in engagement photos is much easier if you know what to expect!

You can also try on any accessories ahead of time to make sure your dog is comfortable and not irritated by them.

The more familiar your pup is with the idea of being photographed, the smoother the actual session will go.

9. Communicate with Your Photographer

Every dog has a personality. Some are shy, some are excitable, and some are a little bit of both depending on the day. Let your photographer know what to expect so they can be prepared and plan accordingly. Trust me, I’ve done my fair share of these and can help you with including your dog in engagement photos.

For example, if your dog tends to bark at strangers, it might help to have a slow introduction. If they respond well to certain commands or have a cue word that works every time, share that too.

The more your photographer knows, the better we can tailor the experience to your specific dog. And we want this to feel fun and relaxed for everyone.

10. Let Your Dog Be Part of Your Story

Your engagement photos are about celebrating your relationship, your life together, and all the things that make your love story yours. And if your dog is part of that story, they deserve to be included in a way that feels joyful and genuine.

They do not have to be in every shot. They do not have to behave perfectly. They just have to be themselves, and so do you.

Let them run a little wild. Let them lick your cheek. Let them curl up beside you while you laugh and hold hands. Those moments will mean the most later.

Quick Checklist for Including Your Dog

• Confirm your location allows dogs
• Choose a second location if needed
• Bring a trusted helper
• Pack high value treats and favorite toys
• Dress your dog in a comfortable accessory
• Walk or play before the session
• Expect unpredictability
• Practice posing ahead of time
• Communicate your dog’s quirks
• Focus on having fun

Final Thoughts

Including your dog in engagement photos can be a beautiful, meaningful experience. With a little planning and the right expectations, it can be smooth, sweet, and full of love.

These are not just photos. They are memories. And if your dog has been there for quiet nights, long walks, road trips, and everything in between, this is your chance to honor that bond and bring it into the next chapter of your life.

If you are ready to start planning an engagement session that includes your pup, reach out and let’s create something that feels like you. Whether we are hiking at sunrise or strolling through your neighborhood park, we will make it special. You bring the love, the joy, and the snacks. I will bring the camera.