It seems that despite the economic fears of resession, Americans are spending more and more on their pets. According to the American Pet Products Manufactures Association, Inc., 63% of households own a pet which equates to about 71.1 million homes. This number breaks down to 74.8 million dogs, 88.3 million cats, 13.8 million horses, with the rest being fish, birds, pocket pets, and reptiles. These pets are being treated to everything from fancy pet hotels, so that FiFi won't feel badly not going on the family vacation to therapy for the nuerotic cat who lives next door. So what can we do as photographers to bring a little of that spending into our studios? Pet Portraits are one of the newest and thriving business today. But, before you run out to start shooting your neighbour's newest edition to the family, there a few hints and some BIG do's and don'ts you might want to consider.

All one needs to do is Google "Pet Photography" to see how every photographer is jumping to meet the demands of the pet owners. So, how do you make yourself stand out in the overwhelming sea of flash bulbs and shutter clicks? COSTOMER SERVICE!!! Yes, I know it is something we all do and have but consider the animal in which you are shooting in an hour. Is it a puppy? If it is, what kind? Are they skiddish or daffy? These are all great questions to keep in mind when you set up an appointment. Here are a few things to know about the behaviour of dogs:

Dogs do not really like to have people standing over them. This should be obvious, but how many of you have walked up to cute little puppy and find them hiding behind their domestic partner? Or, worse yet, go up to a handsome dog only to have him growl at you? Does the phrase "I do not know what has gotten into him? He is usually quite loving." mean anything to any of you? Towering over a dog is a dominate posture..it tells the dog "I am the boss and you WILL obey me." They respond in the behaviours listed above. Here is the way you should approach your subject:
Walk up to the animal but for the last 5 feet or so, get down to his level. Kneel or crouch down, but make an effort to not be so terrifing. Then allow the dog to come to you. This will show him that you are not there to be confrontational. They will make up their own mind about you.
Put out your hand, palm down, and let him sniff you out. Dog's sense of smell is way superior to ours so this is how he will identify you. No, you do not need to turn around and bend down...they do not need to smell your butt.
When the dog comes to you, try not to put your hand on the top of his head...remember he is still checking you out. This is another dominante indicator and the dog might get worried. So, take your hand and put it on one side (or both sides if you prefer) of his head, just in front of the ears. Scratch with your fingers and he should become really happy with you.

Congradulations! You now have the confidence of the dog!