7 Tips for Including Your Dog in Engagement Photos (Colorado & Beyond)

Whether you’re planning an engagement session in downtown Denver, a nature-filled shoot in the Rockies, or a laid-back moment in Boulder, bringing your dog along can add such joy to your story. As a Colorado wedding photographer who loves helping dog-loving couples, here are 7 practical tips to include your pup in your engagement photos seamlessly.

This isn't just about getting adorable photos. It’s also about celebrating the love and bond you share as a family.

With that said, adding a pet to the mix can be a bit tricky if not handled with care. Fear not, though, I have plenty of experience with this. I've created this guide to help you rock your engagement session and include your dog while doing it!

Tips for Including Your Dog in Engagement Photos

Choose a Familiar Location

Your pup will be at their best if they are familiar with the place. Choose a location that means something to you, a place you go often with your dog is a great contender! They’ll feel more at ease and less compelled to run off and explore.

Choose a Dog-Friendly Location

If you’re bringing your dog, don’t just look for a beautiful location. Make sure it’s dog-friendly, too! Doing your research in advance is especially important if the area is unfamiliar to you and your dog.

If you’re exploring Colorado, remember, high-altitude locations like the Rockies or foothills bring special considerations for dogs. More on brilliant dog-friendly engagement session locations in Colorado in this guide: Best Dog-Friendly Engagement Session Locations in Colorado

Bring Treats and Toys

Your dog probably won’t be able to stay focused and obedient for the entire photo session. So, make sure to take some distractions along!

Don’t Forget About the Altitude

Colorado’s elevation can sneak up on you during an engagement session. Higher altitudes mean thinner air, stronger sun, and quicker fatigue, for both you and your dog.

If you’re heading into the foothills or the mountains, plan extra water breaks, give yourselves time to adjust, and don’t be surprised if you feel winded sooner than usual.

Plan Rest Breaks

Dogs can easily become tired or restless during lengthy photo sessions. So, be sure to plan for regular rest breaks. Allow them time to relax, recharge, and explore their surroundings at their own pace, ensuring they remain happy and cooperative throughout the session.

During these breaks, we can take pictures of just the two of you. That leads me to tip number five!

Bring a Dog Wrangler

While it will be fun to include your pup in some photos, we’ll want at least a few engagement portraits with just the two of you! This is made easier by bringing along a friend or family member to hang with your dog while we finish the session.

Respect Leash Laws

Many popular engagement photo locations, especially in Colorado’s mountains and on busy trails, have strict leash laws, and for good reason.

These rules protect wildlife, other visitors, and your dog, especially in areas where elk, deer, and even coyotes are common. Keeping your pup leashed where required helps everyone stay safe, prevents unexpected disruptions, and makes it easy for us to move between spots without stress.

Dress Your Dog Appropriately

Consider dressing your dog in comfortable accessories that complement the overall aesthetic of the shoot. Whether it's a stylish bandana, a cute bow tie, or a floral collar, adding a touch of flair to your furry friend's attire can enhance the visual appeal of the photos.

Embrace Imperfection

Embrace the spontaneity that comes with including your dog in engagement photos. Whether they're distracted by squirrels, rolling in the grass, or giving curious sniffs to every object in sight, these candid moments represent exactly who your dog is, and should be!

Plan For Weather

Colorado weather changes fast, especially in the mountains, so plan outfits and dog essentials with flexibility in mind. Temperatures can swing quickly, winds pick up out of nowhere, and evenings cool down fast at higher elevations. Bringing layers, water, and a few comfort items for your pup will help everyone stay comfortable no matter what Colorado throws your way.

Callie and Ben got caught up in a snowstorm for their Colorado engagement session, and while Smoky the Husky was built ready for the occasion, Lexy needed some additional attire and cuddles to be comfortable.

Do these Tips only apply to dogs?

While these tips are tailored to dog owners, they can be applied to any pet. Whether you have a cat, rabbit, or pet pig, prioritizing their comfort, incorporating their unique personality, and embracing spontaneous moments can result in unforgettable photos that capture the bond between you, your partner, and your beloved furry, feathered, or scaled companion.

Whether you’re hiking a trail near Estes Park or finding a cozy urban nook in Denver, your dog’s presence will make your engagement session uniquely you. With a little planning, and selecting a truly dog-friendly Colorado spot, you’ll capture images full of heart, movement, and story.

As an animal lover, I would be thrilled to hang out with any of the above (and get to know you, of course!). Contact me to book your pet-friendly engagement session!

Do you want to go a step further and include your pet in your wedding day festivities? Well, you're in luck! While we've covered the basics of including your dog in engagement photos here, there's even more to explore when it comes to including your pet in your big day. That's why I've dedicated an entire blog post to this topic!