There’s something really special about a family photo that includes the dog. Not just because they’re adorable (though they absolutely are), but because they’re family — the one who greets you at the door every single day, the one the kids grew up with, the one who somehow always ends up in the middle of the couch. Including your dog in your family portraits means capturing your life as it actually is, and those are always the photos people love the most.
Here’s everything you need to know to make it happen beautifully.
Bring the Whole Family — Dogs Included
The biggest mistake people make when planning a family photoshoot is treating the dog as an afterthought. Your dog isn’t a prop — they’re a member of the family, and the session should be planned around them just as much as everyone else.
Think about what your dog loves. Do they go wild at the park? Are they happiest romping through a field or splashing near water? Choosing a location your dog already feels comfortable and excited about makes a huge difference. A happy, energized dog is so much easier to photograph than a nervous one, and the resulting images will feel natural and full of life.
If your dog is on the calmer side, a more relaxed setting — like a quiet trail or open meadow — can be perfect for those sweet, still moments together.
What to Wear for a Family Dog Photoshoot
Coordinating outfits for a family session is already a little bit of an art — add a dog into the mix and it can feel overwhelming. Here’s a simple approach that always works beautifully:
Choose a colour palette, not matching outfits. Pick two or three tones that complement each other — think warm neutrals, soft creams, earthy tones, or muted blues — and let each family member wear something within that palette. This looks intentional and cohesive without being too matchy-matchy. Click on the family photo ( or the stack of sweaters) below for Spring/Summer clothing idea. Click on either clothing image below that for ideas as to what to wear for a photoshoot in the Fall/Winter
Spring/ Summer Ideas
Winter/Fall Ideas
Avoid busy patterns and logos. Solid colours and simple textures photograph much better, especially when you’re also working with a dog who may be moving around.
Consider your dog’s colouring. If you have a dark dog, lighter clothing tends to create a beautiful contrast. For a light or white dog, deeper tones can help them stand out. It’s a small detail that makes a real difference.
Dress for the location. If you’re heading to a field or forest, flowy dresses, denim, and natural fabrics feel right at home. For a more urban setting, something a little more polished works well.
Consider Accessories. A cozy scarf, a favourite hat, or even a simple piece of jewellery can add warmth and personality to your photos while keeping the focus where it belongs — on you and your dog together. Think about layers and textures that photograph beautifully, like a chunky knit wrap, a plaid flannel shirt, or a leather jacket. Avoid busy patterns or large logos that can distract the eye, and instead reach for solid colours or subtle prints that complement your dog’s colouring. The best outfits are ones that feel like you — comfortable, authentic, and seasonally appropriate. If you’re planning a fall session in the Niagara Region, a warm rust, olive, or cream palette looks absolutely stunning against the changing leaves. When in doubt, bring a couple of outfit options and we can decide together on the day!
Consider Accessories for your dog too.
Scarves & Bandanas These are probably the most dog-friendly accessory because they’re comfortable and most dogs barely notice them. A chunky knit scarf, a plaid flannel bandana, or a silky seasonal print can add a beautiful pop of colour and texture to your photos — especially when matched to your outfit or the season.
Seasonal Themes Think pumpkin bandanas in fall, floral crowns in spring, cozy cable-knit wraps in winter. Leaning into the season makes your photos feel timely and intentional rather than generic.
Matching With Your Outfit Coordinate — don’t match exactly. If you’re wearing burgundy, a rust or cream bandana on your dog ties the photo together beautifully without looking too costume-y.
How to Pose Naturally with Your Dog
Forget stiff, posed portraits. The best family dog photos happen when everyone — humans and dogs alike — is just being together. Here are some ideas that always result in beautiful, genuine moments:
Let the kids be kids. Have them run toward the camera with the dog, roll in the grass together, or give the dog a big hug. These are the photos that get framed.
Walk together. A simple walk through a pretty location gives everyone something to do and results in some of the most natural, relaxed images.
Sit together on the ground. Get down to your dog’s level. Sit in the grass, let the dog climb on laps, let it get a little chaotic — that’s where the magic is.
Focus on connection, not the camera. Look at each other, laugh at your dog, whisper something to your kids. Images where families are genuinely interacting always feel more alive than ones where everyone is looking straight at the lens.
Getting Dogs and Kids to Cooperate
Let’s be honest — this is the part everyone worries about. Here’s what actually helps:
Tire your dog out a little beforehand. A good walk or play session an hour before the shoot takes the edge off and makes your dog much more manageable during the session. Not exhausted — just settled.
Bring high-value treats. Whatever your dog goes absolutely crazy for, bring plenty of it. Treats are your best friend for getting your dog to sit, look at the camera, or just stay put for a few seconds.
Bring a favourite toy. Squeaky toys and balls are great for getting your dog’s attention and creating fun action shots.
Let kids hold the leash. Kids who feel like they have a job tend to stay focused and calm — and dogs often respond really well to their people.
Keep the energy light. Dogs and kids both feed off the energy around them. The more relaxed and playful the adults are, the more cooperative everyone tends to be. And if things get a little chaotic? That’s okay — some of the best photos come from the unplanned moments.
A Few Extra Tips
- Book a morning session. Dogs (and kids) are almost always at their best in the morning before the day wears them out.
- Let your dog off leash if it’s safe to do so. Off-leash dogs move more naturally and freely, and it opens up so many more possibilities.
- Don’t stress about perfection. A dog looking the wrong way, a kid mid-laugh, a slightly blurry tail — these are the things that make a photo feel real and alive. Embrace the imperfection.
Your dog is part of your story. Including them in your family portraits means you’ll have images that truly reflect your life — joyful, a little unpredictable, and full of love.
Ready to book your family dog session? Get in touch and let’s start planning.
Two Saints Photography | On-location portrait sessions