Do You Need to Groom Your Dog Before a Session?
Let’s talk fluff. And soulful eyes. And the tiny details that dog parents secretly stress about.
Picture this: golden light, your dog leaning gently into you, that signature head tilt you know by heart… and then — poof. Their gorgeous, expressive eyes disappear behind a curtain of fringe.
I’ve photographed the floofiest of floofs. Cloud-level coats. Soft, dreamy, magical.
And sometimes? Completely covering the very thing that makes your heart melt.
Here’s what I’ve learned after years of Milwaukee dog portrait sessions:
Eyes are everything.
They’re where the story lives. The “you’re my person” look.
When we can clearly see your dog’s eyes in a portrait, the emotional connection deepens instantly. And since my work is designed to become artwork in your home — something you walk past every day — that connection matters.
So let’s answer the question honestly.
Do You Have to Groom Your Dog Before a Photography Session?
Short answer? No.
Long answer? Sometimes a little thoughtful prep helps, but perfection is never the goal.
At Unleashed with Love, I photograph your dog exactly as they are. Shaggy. Sleek. Wind-tousled. If they’re being themselves, we’re on the right track.
That said, here are a few practical (and judgment-free) dog photography session grooming tips to help you feel confident walking into your session.
1. The “Eyes Rule” (And the Two-Week Sweet Spot)
If your dog’s facial hair tends to fall over their eyes — think doodle brows, shaggy fringes, expressive face fluff — consider grooming about two weeks before your session.
Why two weeks?
- Haircuts have time to soften and look natural
- Whiskers and facial fur don’t feel freshly clipped
- Your dog still looks like themselves
2. Real Life Always Wins Over Perfect
Your dog does not need to be show-ready. This is not Westminster. This is your life.
If their coat is slightly windswept? Perfect.
If there’s a tiny leaf hitchhiking in their tail? We’ll handle it.
If they roll in the grass five minutes before we begin? Honestly… that may happen.
What matters most isn’t flawless fur. It’s presence. Personality. The way they look at you. That’s what turns a photograph into artwork.
3. Don’t Overthink Fur — Think Feeling
Most pet parents overanalyze the outer stuff (fur, collars, props) and underprepare for the little things that actually support the session itself:
Here’s what helps more than any grooming appointment:
- Arrive a bit early. Giving your dog 10–15 minutes to sniff and settle makes a world of difference.
- Prioritize a short pre-session walk. Movement helps release “new place” energy and lets curiosity soften into comfort.
- Bring familiar motivators. I always have treats on hand, but if your dog has a favorite toy or squeaky that lights them up, bring it along.
When a dog feels safe and curious instead of overwhelmed, their expression softens. And that’s when the magic happens.
Why This Matters
The truth is, most of my clients arrive worrying about obedience or frizzy fur. What they leave with is something entirely different: a deeper sense of connection, and artwork that speaks straight to the heart.
When your dog’s essence — their quirks, their joy, their gaze — is front and center, the images become more than beautiful. They become personal.
So yes, if your pup’s incredible eyes tend to hide behind fringe and grooming is part of your routine, schedule it a week or two out.
But if it doesn’t happen? I promise you this: My camera (and my heart) are ready for exactly who your dog is.
