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In the enchanting world of pet photography, where every click of the shutter holds the promise of capturing a cherished memory, there exists a delightful truth: things don’t always go according to plan. Yes, you heard it right—despite our best efforts and meticulous preparations, the unexpected often makes its grand entrance, turning our perfectly orchestrated sessions into a symphony of surprises, bloopers and laughter.

Let’s face it—dogs, with their boundless energy, curious antics, and charming quirks, have a way of keeping us on our toes. From impromptu games of keep-away to sudden bursts of zoomies, there’s never a dull moment when our furry family are involved. And while we strive for that elusive “perfect shot,” it’s the bloopers, the outtakes and the candid moments in between that truly steal our hearts.

But here’s the thing: in the midst of the chaos and the laughter, there lies a profound beauty—a beauty that transcends perfection and embraces the raw, unfiltered essence of our furry companions. It’s in those unscripted moments, those spontaneous bursts of joy and silliness, that we find true magic.

So, let us raise our cameras high and celebrate the delightful moments that make each session unique. Let’s embrace the laughter, the surprises, and the occasional mishaps, knowing it’s these moments that mean so much.

And to our beloved clients, we invite you to join us in celebrating all the fun facets of your dog’s personality. Whether your furry friend decides to chase butterflies instead of posing for the camera or insists on giving the lens a playful lick, rest assured that every moment captured is a treasure—a testament to the unconditional love and boundless joy that our pets bring into our lives.

So here’s to the bloopers, the blunders, and the beautiful messiness of pet photography. May we continue to laugh, to cherish, and to capture the extraordinary magic of life with our beloved companions.

Woofs and wags 🐾

Donna

Check out my Session Guide to see how much fun your pup’s session can be.

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, which means it’s time to start thinking about how you want to spoil your special someone. And no, we’re not talking about your significant other — we’re talking about your furry, four-footed, best friend. See why spending Valentine’s Day with your dog might make it your best Valentine’s Day ever!

They’re Always Up For A Date Night

Who needs roses and chocolates when you can spend Valentine’s Day with your pup? Forget those stuffy candlelit dinners – dogs don’t care if you want to stay in and watch a movie, or go out and have some fun. They just want to be with you – no matter what you do!

So why not spend Valentine’s Day doing something special together? If it’s nice outside, take your pup for a hike in the woods or a run on the beach. If the weather isn’t cooperating, curl up on the couch and indulge in some quality cuddle time. Either way, you know your furry valentine will be thrilled with whatever activity (or lack thereof) you choose!

No Dressing up Required

Don’t bother debating over outfits – just spend the evening in your PJs snuggled up with your favorite four-legged friend. Bonus points if your PJ’s match! And even better, you get to choose your favorite shows to watch, no fighting over the remote.

Your Dog Will Always be by Your Side

No matter what else is going on in our lives, our dogs are loyal until the very end. And unlike our human partners, our pups will never tire of hearing about our day and will be there to listen whenever we need it. Who else can give so much love in exchange for a few belly rubs?

Gift Shopping is SO Easy

No need to struggle with finding the perfect gift. Your dog will be happy with whatever you choose. A new toy, some yummy treats, a new collar – whatever you choose will make this their BEST DAY EVER! Even better, is a field trip to pick up a few of their favorites. My dogs love visiting the Polkadog shops and The Natural Dog for great, all natural, locally sourced goodies.

And we all know how generous our dogs are, so don’t forget to pick up something awesome for YOU from THEM 🎁.

So this Valentine’s Day, show yourself some extra love by sharing it with (wo)man’s best friend! Who needs chocolates and roses when you have unconditional love and slobbery kisses? So this year, ditch the traditional date night and cuddle up with your bestest dog instead – you won’t regret it!

Happy Valentine’s Day from Believe and I 💖

Let’s face it, perfection is overrated. And impossible to achieve. Our dogs are so lucky, they don’t lay awake at night brooding over the extra pound they’re carrying or that mom isn’t too happy that they rolled in that slightly smelly thing in the yard. They’ve embraced their perfectly imperfect status 💖

I’ve had the privilege of capturing all kinds of tail-wagging mayhem in my 15+ years as a professional pet photographer. From dogs who will try to convince you that they’ve NEVER heard the word “sit” before to those who’ve mastered the art of zoomies. And guess what? It’s precisely these quirks that make our four-legged friends such rockstars! And why I have the best job in the world!

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Real-life Moments, Real-life Love

In my sessions, perfection takes a back seat to authenticity. I’ve had the pleasure of capturing countless moments that encapsulate the quirky, wild, and wonderfully imperfect nature of our canine companions. It’s these unique qualities that make each dog a star in their own right.

From the dogs who treat “stay” like a distant relative and others who believe “fetch” is just a fancy game of keep-away. Forget the script – it’s the unscripted chaos that steals the show.

Championing the Unpredictable

A session without unpredictability is like a hotdog without mustard – bland and missing the kick. The goofy expressions, the sudden sprints, and the little bit of naughtiness make for images that aren’t just pictures; they’re a storybook of a canine’s character.

Let’s bark down those stereotypes that say a “perfect” dog fits a certain mold. In my world, every dog is a superstar, whether they’re a drama queen, a goofball, or the class clown.

So many potential clients feel they have to wait until their dog is “better behaved”, or can be off-leash or “calms down”. And none of those are true. Almost none of the dogs I have photographed in my career are obedience stars or even had much training at all. Most of them are “perfectly imperfect” – great dogs who occasionally raid the trash or chew a shoe or run off in the middle of a session after a rabbit 🐰.

They’re dogs! They’re expected to act like dogs – be a little (or a LOT) crazy, pull on leash, bark their fool heads off just “because”. I didn’t get into this career to photograph robots (I don’t trust robots, even robot dogs, tell me that “dog” will cuddle with you on the couch… ). Your session will be one of laughter, action and slobbery kisses. So don’t wait to schedule a session for your pet – let’s capture all the chaos that makes you love them so much.

Your Dog is Perfect for the Camera – Just as They Are

To all the awesome pet parents out there, your dog is a star in the making – no auditions required. No need to wait for the stars to align or for your furry friend to become a canine Einstein. So, here’s to celebrating the perfectly imperfect, embracing the mayhem, and capturing the essence of your furry partner in crime. Ready? Let’s turn your furry rockstar into a frame-worthy legend.

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Here’s to the tail-wagging, tongue-lolling, laughter-inducing journey of photographing your unapologetically awesome canine buddies. 📸🐶

Donna

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Have a reactive or really shy dog? Click here to read a blog on how I design special sessions just for them. Focusing on their comfort and safety at all times.

Hi there, I’m Donna Kelliher, the face behind the camera at (you guessed it) Donna Kelliher Photography. Firstly you should know that I’m a little bit crazy about dogs. Ok, maybe more than a little.  My dogs are my family (possibly my favorite members of the family, but shhh, that’ll be our little secret).  I love every minute I spend with my dogs and I think being a dog photographer is the best job in the world💖. Right now I have one border collie, named Believe, who is my constant companion. We love to play agility, hike, swim and she is a world-class snuggler.

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So what qualifications do I bring to this dog photography vocation of mine? Other than being enthralled with every dog I meet walking down the street 😊. Well, I started off with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Photography from NYU (my parents were SO happy 😏 when I switched from Pre-Med to art school…). Added in 20+ years as a certified professional dog trainer – positive methods only. And since I was blessed with an infinite supply of love and patience for our canine companions (and their shenanigans) – voila, I found my calling in life as a dog photographer.

Not that it has always been a smooth journey. I was actually TERRIFIED of dogs for a decade or more after I was bitten as a child. But a friend’s Irish Wolfhound, sweet, goofy Benjamin, helped me learn to trust dogs again and the rest as they say is history. Sometimes I marvel at the fact that I now help rehabilitate “aggressive” dogs as a trainer when the sight of a Chihuahua 50 yards away would make me quake in fear, but life can be funny that way I guess.

My experience as a trainer has turned into such a huge benefit as a dog photographer. Because of the knowledge I have, I can read a dog’s body language, gauge what they’re thinking and feeling and now how to make them comfortable and happy during our sessions. I can anticipate the special moments and capture the expressions that showcase who they really are. Nothing makes me happier than when clients tell me that I captured their dog the way they see them. Especially for dogs who may be shy or fearful and need a little more help relaxing and enjoying their session.

One of my favorite client testimonials reads:

“Donna did a portrait session with my old girl shortly before I had to let her go. The pictures are beautiful and I’m so glad I got them before it was too late. Ariel was never a super social dog, and by the time we did the session it was hard for her to get around. Donna was so good with her. My cranky old lady was relaxed and enjoyed herself. Having someone who knows dogs as well as photography made all the difference. The result was lovely afternoon and pictures that I will always treasure.” – Chris M.

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Now maybe your dog isn’t into sitting around and posing. Maybe they’re super active and never stop moving. And you would love images of them flying across a field or plunging through the surf. I’ve got you covered there too! I spent the first 10+ years of my photography journey almost exclusively photographing dog sports – agility, herding, lure coursing, dock diving, etc. If dogs played the game, I photographed it.

So I have tons of experience photographing dogs enjoying life at top speed. Not to brag (as I brag :-), but my dog sports work has been on the covers of multiple international magazines (I can’t tell you how cool it is to walk into a shop and see your work on a magazine cover😎). I’ve also photographed several books as well, so if you’re dog does it, I can photograph it!

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What about life outside of photography and dogs? Is there life outside of dogs??? Ok, I’ll try and come up with a few things that don’t revolve around them…

Here are 15 (non-dog) Fun Facts about Me

1. I LOVE the water! My parents always said I was part fish. You get me near a body of water and I’m in it. And you’ll have a hard time getting me back out. I even did my first Polar Plunge this January 1st! It was SO MUCH FUN!
2. I’m a night owl. I can stay up editing until 1 am, no problem. It’s getting up for those sunrise sessions that are painful 🌅
3. My favorite color is purple, in all it’s shades. (You may even see it in my hair if you book a session)
4. I meditate and practice yoga every day. I’ve grown so much in mindset and self-confidence in the past few years because of these practices.
5. I love to read. Fiction, non-fiction, poetry, short stories, I love it all. I never wanted to go to an e-reader, I was a “real” books girl, but now I don’t go anywhere without my Kindle.
6. I’ve been a vegetarian for over 30 years. I was a vegan for probably 15 of those, but discovered that I missed pizza and ice cream too much 🍕🍦😋
7. I’m the youngest of six kids. My mother was a saint and I love my bi-weekly cut-throat game nights with my sisters.
8. My favorite season is spring. I love the warmer days, the SUN returning after the dreary winter, the flowers everywhere and all the possibilities of the year stretching out ahead of me.
9. I stop for ice cream after almost every session 🍨. I try to find a small local shop wherever I am for a special treat before heading home.
10. My favorite band has always been and will always be U2. I’ve seen them live on two continents and their shows are always incredible!
11. I LOVE dark chocolate. Gimme chocolate chip cookies, the super fudgy cake at Caffe Nero, chocolate martinis, YUM! And it has antioxidants, so it’s a health food, right???
12. I love being out in Nature. Hiking, camping, kayaking, biking, the beach. In the warm months here in New England, I spend as little time indoors as possible 🥾🌄🌞🛶
13. My favorite t.v. show, that’s a tough one since I don’t actually own a t.v anymore. But it would have to be between the X-Files(mmm, David Duchovny) and Schitt’s Creek(mmm, Daniel Levy – and yes, I KNOW. But he would be SO fun to hang out with and his relationship with Patrick is so sweet 💖).
14. I was agoraphobic in my 20’s. For almost 10 years I could hardly leave my house. I’m so blessed to have recovered and be leading this amazing life now.
15. My dream vacation would be a beach house with a bunch of my friends where we could swim in the ocean, go on adventures, go dancing or hang out with cocktails talking late into the night. Hear that ladies, let’s make this happen!

So that’s me. Outdoorsy, chocolate loving, dog photographer to some of the best-loved dogs of Greater Boston and beyond. Tell me a little about your dogs in the comments or connect with me on IG and share a photo of your pup to brighten my timeline 🐶💗

It’s WINTER! Ok, not technically yet, but with it getting dark at 4:30 in the afternoon and the frost I’m scraping off my windshield in the morning, I’m declaring winter officially here. And you know what’s great about this time of year? It’s perfect for a portrait session for your dog. No, I’m not crazy and I know what you’re thinking, “but it’s cold and dreary, I just want to stay inside with my cup of cocoa ( or glass of wine) and good book (or Netflix)”. But hear me out and let me give you a few awesome reasons to get layered up and out to create amazing winter pet portraits with your best pup!

Now, drumroll please, my top three amazing winter portrait options for your consideration.

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Beach Sessions: A Different Kind of Winter Magic

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Urban Winter Pet Portrait Sessions: For the Sophisticated City Pup

Even in winter we can find so much beauty in more urban locales. City parks, streets adorned with holiday lights, and iconic urban landmarks can provide a captivating backdrop for pet photography. Think the Boston Skyline, the Seaport and the cobbled streets of Back Bay to incorporate the vibrant energy of the city into your session.

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Snow Sessions: Frolicking in the Winter Wonderland

Imagine your pet surrounded by a pristine white landscape, with snow-covered trees and glistening fields as the backdrop. The serene beauty of the snow makes for magical portraits. Picture your dog with snowflakes gently resting on their nose or their paw prints leading through the snowy terrain. These one-of-a-kind images tell a story of winter wonder.

Snow sessions also brings out the playful puppy in almost every dog. Capturing their joy catching snowflakes and bounding through the white powder will create images that are priceless.

Since snow can be very elusive, I have a waiting list of clients who want snow sessions. Click here to be added to my list.

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The best part of winter sessions is that popular outdoor locations are much quieter and less crowded during the winter months. This means a more relaxed session, especially if you have a pup who needs a bit more space or less noise and activity to feel comfortable.

So, let’s embrace the season, bundle up and create some winter magic. Let’s capture the joy, playfulness, and coziness of winter, creating memories that will warm your heart for years to come.

Have questions, check out my FAQ page or contact me. And let’s plan a fun winter session for you and your pup.

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Winter blues got you down? Fear not! Dive into the heartwarming world of funny, sweet, touching dog social media accounts to add a dose of joy and laughter to your day. These adorable pups are sure to turn even the dreariest winter day into a warm and fuzzy experience.

My Top 5 Dog-loving Instagram Accounts

1. @_layla_the_boxer: This is a must watch for me. Every one of their reels are hilarious and the quality of these mini-movies is amazing. Layla (boxer) and Luna (her Aussie sidekick/partner-in-crime) are always up to something behind Mom’s back. Whether it’s shopping on Amazon with Mom’s credit card, doing battle with the Elf on the Shelf or competing to see who mom loves best, you will love all of these. And now with the addition of a human “sister”, the girls have an accomplice -in-training
2. @good.boy.ollie Ollie, is the epitome of a “good boy”. Whether it’s sweetly visiting his “Nanny Biscuits” (you can probably figure out how she got her name) to trying to civilize his “baby raptor” of a brother, you can’t help falling in love with this gentle soul 💖. Check out their month of December Advent Calendar reels for a month of fun and adventure with these two boys
3. @ladyandtheblues This account follows the sweetest Golden Retriever EVER! When I first started following her, it was just her and mom and dad. But the addition of her human “sister” has taken the cuteness to a whole ‘nother level. As a dog trainer I usually cringe at dog/baby interactions on social media, but this is the most wholesome, beautiful relationship. Check out the matching outfits for a dose of high-fashion for us dog folks 🎀
4. @grizzly.bane Pair a wise GSD with a goofy Bernese Mountain and hilarity ensues. Picture the wise parent talking to their crazy child (in cute dog form) and you get all the laughs without any of the parenting angst 😁
5. @whiskeybearthelab All December we watched Dad mix cocktails (alcohol free for Whiskey the Lab of course) with Whiskey “helping” and slyly lecturing Dad about his alcohol intake. Now we’re onto cooking matching meals. These two are just so sweet together. And who knows you may find a great recipe or cocktail idea for yourself too 🍸

As the dark days settle in, let these furry comedians be a source of warmth and cheer. Follow their adventures on Instagram, and let the laughter thaw away the winter blues. Who knew that a simple scroll through a dog’s Instagram feed could bring so much joy?

Does your dog have a social media account? Let me know in the comments, I’d love to follow along on their adventures!

As we bid farewell to another amazing year, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible moments we’ve shared together. From the wagging tails to the slobbery kisses, each session has been so full of joy and laughter and love. I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to capture these special moments with your beloved family members.

📸 A Glimpse Into Our Year

Thank You for Making 2023 Unforgettable!

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for choosing me to photograph your pups this year. Your trust and enthusiasm have made this journey so rewarding. I feel privileged to have been a part of your pet’s story.

🐾 Highlights of 2023:

1: I traveled to NC this spring to attend a pet photographers’ mastermind group. This small group coaching opportunity was thrilling. We talked business and mindset, photographed dogs in Charlotte, NC, ate great food and laughed SO MUCH. And the best part, I became good friends with all of the women there who continue to help me grow this passion-project business that I LOVE.

2: I participated in an intensive 6-month photography course, which challenged me to push outside my comfort zone and explore ways of seeing and shooting which I can wait to add to my repertoire.

3: I’ve been so blessed to collaborate with some amazing partners this year (hello, Alta Clara at the Fells and The Natural Dog). One of my goals this year is to continue to expand my partnerships with other pet-crazy small businesses to help us all shine 🌟✨. If you’re a small business that would like to work together, let’s chat!

Looking Ahead to 2024:

As we step into the new year, I’m excited to create many more memories together! Whether it’s capturing the playful antics of your new puppy, the nobility of your senior, or the unique personality of your furry best friend, I can’t wait to continue capturing your journey.

And stay tuned because I have a couple of REALLY exciting new offerings for 2024. From an exciting new session type for the adventurous people and their pets to a massive fundraising effort I’m going to be launching shortly to benefit a local charity (stay tuned for more info…).

🎉 Thank You Again!

Once again, thank you for making 2023 a paw-some year for Donna Kelliher Photography. Your support means the world to me. I’m thrilled to be part of such an incredible community of pet lovers.

Wishing you and your furry friends an amazing New Year!

Warm regards,

Donna

Donna Kelliher Photography ~ Because YOUR dog isn’t “just” a dog.

While every season has its charm, New England in Fall is truly magical. As the leaves begin to turn and the crisp autumn air fills our lungs, there’s no better time to celebrate the extraordinary bond between you and your furry friends. The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the leaves mirror the warmth and love that exists between you and your beloved dog. We’ll capture your dog’s joy romping in the falling leaves and the two of you cuddling amidst the autumn beauty.

If these are the heartwarming memories you want to preserve, you’re in the right place. Our pets are our family and the source of endless joy in our lives. My fall pet photography sessions are designed to create stunning artwork that will adorn your home and celebrate the love you share with your dog.

Why You Should Book a Fall Pet Photography Session with Me 🍁

Unwavering Dedication

Just like the love you have for your dogs, my dedication to capturing their essence is unwavering. Your story is unique, and so is your relationship with your dog. I take the time to understand your bond and create a session that reflects your personalities, ensuring your images are not just photos but pieces of art that speak to your hearts.

Timeless Beauty

The fall season provides a backdrop of breathtaking beauty that perfectly complements your style and decor. With the vibrant foliage and soft, golden light, we’ll capture moments that stand the test of time, allowing you to relive them for years to come.

Simple Process

Your life is super busy and I understand that. I work to make the entire process simple and seamless, from booking to the session to delivery of your final artwork. You can expect an easy and enjoyable experience from start to finish.

Professional Artistry

With over 15 years working exclusively as a dog photographer, I not only capture beautiful images but also transform them into works of art. I believe your pet deserves a place of honor on your wall, just like any other cherished family member.

The Finest Products Available

I offer a wide variety of artwork and albums created by the finest, professional-only labs in the world. I will help you create the perfect display to showcase your pet’s beauty and the love you share in your home.

This fall, I invite you to invest in an extraordinary experience that celebrates your dogs and the life you’ve built together. It’s a chance to immortalize the companionship, loyalty, and love that fills your home. Limited spots are available, so don’t delay. Secure your session now and let’s capture the beauty of fall together.

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As pet lovers, we are blessed to share our lives with furry companions who bring boundless joy, love, and loyalty. While every stage of our dog’s life is precious, there’s a unique magic that radiates from a senior dog—the gentle grays around their muzzle, the wisdom in their eyes and the deep bond that time has forged. Beautiful Daisy here was 18 years old during her session. Her mom was 21, which means she had literally shared almost her entire life with Daisy. What a gift 💖.

Moments Fleeting, Love Eternal

Our senior dogs are truly priceless. With age comes a special kind of beauty and charm. Their personalities are fully developed and their quirks and habits are endearing reminders of the years spent together. And everything from leisurely strolls to heartwarming cuddles on the couch is a precious treasure.

As much as we wish our beloved companions could stay by our side forever, the reality is that their time with us is so heartbreakingly limited. Having just lost my beloved Border Collie, Twister, I know all too well the heartache when our constant companions leave us. Twister’s “fancy” agility champion name was ADCH Bronze, LAA Bronze Talisman’s Force of Nature. But above any ribbons and titles he was my best friend, my constant companion, my shadow. He was literally never more than an arms-length away from me.

He has been gone for 3 months now and I miss him every day. I miss his sweet presence, beautiful smile and his joy in everything he did. The house is painfully empty without him. But thankfully I have the countless photographs I took to capture our days together. These images make me smile and remind me of the wonderful bond we shared. And the artwork I have in my home of my sweet Twister has become a source of comfort and a celebration of a life well-lived.

Remember to Capture the Everyday Moments

That’s why I want all of you to take LOTS of photographs of your dogs🐶. Cherish and capture all their wonderful quirks and the love that shines in their eyes when they look at you! And then don’t just leave them to languish on your phone or in the depths of your computer. Print them out, make a photo book, create something tangible that you can see and enjoy every day. Because in the end, these photographs become more than just images—they become timeless testaments to a love that transcends time itself 💕.

Now maybe you’re struggling to capture the types of images you want. Or you want images of you and your dog together to celebrate your bond. Even as a professional pet photographer, my dogs have always been my toughest subjects😊. That’s why I want to offer the services of professional pet photographers to help you preserve these moments.

Through the lens of a professional dog photographer, the unique personality of your senior dog is captured in every glance, every wag of the tail and every soulful expression. These images will tell the story of a life filled with love, companionship, and shared experiences. These photographs become more than just images—they become timeless testaments to a love that will never end.

I Would Be Honored to Create Portraits of Your Senior Dog

I always feel incredibly honored when someone contacts me to photograph their senior pet. It’s a privilege to photograph dogs at this stage of their life. That’s why these sessions are very special to me. Senior dogs are given priority scheduling and I make any accomodations needed to assure the dog’s comfort and respect any physical limitations they may have.

The best piece of advice I can offer, if you’re considering a professional portrait session, is to schedule NOW. None of us can know what tomorrow or next week or next month may bring. . My Twister was only 10.5 when he passed and while I knew it was coming, it was still much too soon. And it breaks my heart when I meet people and they tell me about the dogs they’ve loved in the past and how much they wish they had more or better photographs to remember them by.

As the years pass with our special senior dogs, their companionship becomes more and more meaningful. As they age, their presence becomes priceless. Capturing these moments is essential. The images of these days hold memories, experiences, and the love that defines their lives. In a photo, their story is saved, reminding us that their time is short but their influence is lasting – a tribute to the bond we’ll always share.

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Would you like to read about keeping your Senior Dog happy and healthy, click here for a blog on that very subject.

I’d love to hear about your special senior dogs. Please share their stories and photographs on my Facebook or Instagram page 💖

Welcome to the wild, wiggly, and wonderfully chaotic world of puppy parenthood. You’ve decided to dive headfirst into the land of wagging tails, floppy ears, and slobbery kisses. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. In addition to being a pet photographer, I have 20+ years training puppies to be beloved family members. Here are my top five no-nonsense tips to help you survive and thrive during those first few puppy-filled months.

Yes, that adorable puppy ⬇⬇ is mine. This is just a portion of what a young puppy left out of a crate can accomplish in a short period of time…. In my defense, I did put him in his crate, I just apparently forgot to latch the door 😭. Thankfully he didn’t get into anything dangerous, there was just a LOT of cleanup. Which brings me to tip #1 below.

1. Crate Training: Your Pup’s Cozy Den

Let’s talk about crate training—a game-changer for both you and your pup. Picture it as your pup’s personal den—a safe space where they can retreat, rest, and recharge. While some might think it’s like sending them to puppy jail, it’s actually a tool for structure and comfort.

Why It Matters

It’s their safe haven. Dogs are den animals, so a crate becomes their natural den. It’s a spot where they can escape from the hustle and bustle when life gets busy.

It makes potty training 1000x easier. Puppies avoid soiling their living area, so a properly sized crate can help puppies learn to “hold it”. This helps minimize accidents. And when you take them out to do their business after leaving the crate, and they’ll quickly catch on.

It gives you peace of mind when they’re home alone (remember what that kid got into in the movie….) When you’re away, a crate ensures your pup’s safety. No unexpected surprises for you when you return, and no accidental destruction or potential injuries for them.

Crate-trained pups make traveling and any vet stays less stressful. They have a familiar space on the road and won’t have their first crate experience be when they’re sick or injured at the vet.

Remember, crate training isn’t about locking your pup away—it’s about providing a secure space for them to call their own. Done right, it’s a valuable tool for their safety, your sanity, and their overall happiness. And it will make all the following challenges easier 😊

2. Embrace the Chewmageddon: Channel It, Don’t Fight It

Let’s cut to the chase: puppies chew. A lot. Your furniture, your shoes, that important paper you thought was out of reach—it’s all fair game. No object is safe from their tiny, razor-sharp teeth. Instead of pulling out your hair (or what’s left of it), the key here is management. Keeping your puppy safely confined when you can’t watch them (see Crate Training 101 above) and invest in LOTS of puppy-safe chew toys. These little lifesavers will keep your pup’s dental health in check while saving your valuables from becoming their next midnight snack.

3. Potty Training: Where Accidents Happen… Everywhere

Ah, the magical world of potty training. Just as babies take time (YEARS in their case) to potty train, so do puppies (not years, thankfully). Yes, accidents will happen, LOTS of them. No, your pup isn’t trying to make your life miserable. Puppies physically can’t “hold it” for very long. Their bladders are small and their muscles aren’t fully developed yet.

Be vigilant, schedule regular potty breaks, and celebrate when they finally do their business outside. When you catch them mid-accident, don’t freak out. Just scoop them up, take them outside and reward them handsomely for going in the right place. Then make sure you clean up any accidents with an enzyme cleaner from the pet store so your puppy doesn’t get confused and go back to that spot as an alternative potty 🧻.

4. Socialization: Your Pup’s Passport to the World

What is socialization? Simply put, it’s introducing them to the world around them. The people, places and experiences in this big world of ours that they may not have experienced before. Sounds, like sirens or vacuum cleaners. Objects, like umbrellas or strollers. Encounters, like bicycles or people wearing hats. Show them it’s all part of life.

Early positive exposure to various sights, sounds, and situations helps your pup become more confident and less likely to develop fears or aggression later on. But it has to be done right! Which means at their pace! Your puppy needs to be happy and excited by these new experiences or you can actually make your puppy more fearful. So go slow. Take it at your pup’s pace. Always make it positive, using treats and praise to make these experiences happy ones. If they’re overwhelmed, back off and try again later. Remember, socialization is about building positive associations, not pushing them into discomfort.

Embrace this adventure of showing your pup the world, and you’ll reap the rewards of a confident, well-behaved, and utterly charming four-legged friend.

5. Training: Treats, Tricks, and Tons of Patience

Enrolling your puppy in a positive reinforcement-based puppy class can be a vital source of support on your journey with your puppy. We’ll help you teach your pup the basics—including the essential “leave it” (for your puppy who’s into everything all the time). As well as identify and help you solve any struggles your puppy may be having.

In my classes we use clicker training to teach all the basic cues along with a puppy play time to help with their socialization and play skills. Just remember to do your research and sit in on a class before you enroll to ensure they’re using science-based positive training techniques and not any methods that are harsh or heavy-handed.

You can search for positive trainers in your area here.

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There you have it, new pup parents! Remember, every puppy is a unique ball of energy and fluff, so go easy on yourself. With a healthy dose of patience, a sprinkle of humor, and the ability to find joy in the midst of chewed-up shoes, you’ll be a pup parent extraordinaire in no time. So buckle up, enjoy the ride, and get ready for a lifetime of unconditional love and unlimited belly rubs. Woof, you’ve got this! 🐾

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Would you like to read more about PUPPIES?!? Of course, you would check out this blog where Charlotte NC dog photographer Kim Hollis of BARKography talks about her love of photographing puppies. https://barkography.com/blog/i-love-photographing-puppies