Can Dogs Be Included in Newborn Photography? Everything Parents Need to Know

For many families, the arrival of a new baby is a life-changing moment for the parents, and for the family dog. What was a family of three becomes a family of four overnight, with everyone adjusting to the new sights, sounds, smells and routines. Dogs are generally pretty quick to adapt and welcome the new baby with a curious and gentle attitude.

One of the questions I get asked often by expectant parents is: "Can our dog be included in the newborn photos?". The answer is usually a resounding yes!

As a newborn and family photographer, I regularly photograph sessions that include beloved family pets. In fact, some of the most meaningful photographs are those that capture the very beginning of the relationship between a newborn baby and the dog who will be alongside them during the sleepless nights, when they start crawling, their first steps and everything else that follows.

Dogs are a great addition to any photo shoot and newborn sessions are no different.

Why Include Your Dog in Newborn Photographs?

Dogs are such an important part of the family. Many couples have had dogs long before they decided to plan for a baby. The dog was the first ‘baby’ and the centre of attention. Including them in your newborn photographs acknowledges their place in the family and helps tell a more complete story of this exciting new chapter.

Years from now, these photographs often become even more meaningful. Children love looking back at pictures of themselves with pets they grew up with, and many parents tell me these are among their favourite images from the session.

Is It Safe to Include Dogs in Newborn Photography?

Safety is always the number one priority. A professional newborn photography session should never place your baby or your dog in a situation that feels unsafe or uncomfortable. Throughout the session, babies and dogs are carefully supervised and interactions are guided in a calm, controlled way. Every dog has a different personality, and the photographs are planned accordingly.

The goal is not to force interactions but to capture genuine moments of the family enjoying their newborn baby.

What Types of Dogs Can Be Included?

Almost any dog can be included in a newborn session. I have photographed everything from tiny cavapoos, to cockapoos, spaniels, labradors and rescue dogs with wonderfully unique personalities. Some dogs are naturally calm and happy to lie beside their owners throughout the session. Others are playful, curious or easily excited. Both approaches can create beautiful photographs. The most important thing is that your dog feels comfortable and relaxed, and I work gently and thoughtfully to put your dog and your family at easy. I understand that this is a new situation for everyone and would therefore treat everyone respectfully and kindly.

What If My Dog Is Very Energetic?

This is probably the biggest concern for many parents. The good news is that energetic dogs are incredibly common.

Before the session, it can help to take your dog for a longer walk than usual or spend some time playing with them in the garden. This often helps them settle more easily once photography begins. Alternatively, I can meet you outside so that we can spend the beginning of the session in the park, woodland or your favourite walk, to walk off (of run off) some of that energy. There is absolutely no expectation that your dog will or should behave perfectly throughout the session.

Some of the most memorable photographs come from spontaneous moments, like a curious glance towards the baby, a wagging tail, or a playful interaction with the family. Natural photographs often feel far more meaningful than perfectly posed ones.

How to Prepare Your Dog for the Session

A little preparation can help everyone feel more relaxed.

Consider having the following available:

• Favourite treats

• A favourite toy

• A lead if needed

• Water bowl

• Dog bed or blanket

It can also be helpful to avoid introducing too many changes immediately before the session. Familiar routines help dogs feel calm and confident.

What Happens During a Pet-Friendly Newborn Photoshoot?

Every session is slightly different because every family is different.

Typically, we begin with family photographs before incorporating your dog naturally as opportunities arise.

Some dogs enjoy being involved throughout the session, while others prefer to appear in just a handful of images.

There is no right or wrong approach.

My aim is always to create relaxed, authentic photographs that reflect your family as you truly are.

Creating Memories That Include Every Family Member

Newborn photography is about much more than documenting what your baby looked like during those early days.

It is about preserving the relationships, connections and memories that make your family unique.

For many families, that story simply would not be complete without the dog who welcomed their newest family member home.

Including your pet in your newborn photography session creates images filled with warmth, personality and meaning—photographs that will become even more valuable as the years pass.

Related Resources

• Newborn Photography with Your Dog in Putney

• Can Dogs Be Included in Newborn Photography?

• What to Wear for a Newborn Family Photoshoot at Home

• At Home vs Studio Newborn Photography

• How to Prepare Your Dog for a Newborn Photoshoot