Dog models is an actual niche within the industry with agencies establishing themselves to locate canines suitable for the task. A range of animals appear in advertising campaigns, TV commercials and promotional work including dogs, cats, horses, snakes and spiders depending on the overall look for the brand or designer. Clients will seek a specific type of breed, appearance and character, which will usually be found by the agency who have established an animal model database.

For your pet to become a star in the media you need to ensure that the animal is well groomed with a clean and tidy appearance. Dog models require to be presented with fur that is washed and brushed regularly to avoid an unbearable smell and unkempt hair. Clients will not hire a dog or cat that is neglected and untidy as this doesn’t translate well on to camera. If a brand is hoping to use a dog to promote their product they will certainly prefer to cast a canine that is well presented and reassured that the owner takes pride in their pet.

If you wish for you dog to be hired repeatedly it is essential to make a great first impression. Ensure that your canine has been trained to a high standard and therefore, will the majority of the time follow orders. An obedient creature is much more preferred than a wild animal that will not listen and will chew through a cable or run loose. Of course, the photographers will be more lenient than when working with a human model yet they will still demand and expect a high standard of obedience. Take your pet to a class, which trains dogs to respond to specific actions and words to avoid the shoot running over schedule and annoying the employers. It is also worthwhile to ensure that your puppy is friendly and enjoys to be around new people. If your dog has a temper and barks excessively when meeting new people it is important to make them feel at ease by introducing him to groups regularly to avoid your dog feeling scared and intimidated.

It is vital to assess whether you have the spare time and commitment to introduce your dog to modelling. As the owner you will be expected to dedicate your time to ensuring that the model arrives on time, is well groomed, obedient and chaperoned whilst at the shoot. This may take some time and for you to rearrange your schedule to fit roles into your weekly/monthly diary. Your dog will only be familiar with your voice and commands and therefore, cannot be left unattended at any time. To ensure that your pet feels secure and relaxed your presence is absolutely vital!

Ensure that you sign your dog to a kind, fair and effective animal handling agency. It is important that your pet is treated fairly at all times and harm is caused by being in the hands of cruel individuals. Most animal modelling agencies will be trustworthy and reputable with a team of experts who know how to launch a canine modelling career.

The perfect example of a dog model is Toast in the Karen Walker sunglasses campaign, which will more than likely appear in the likes of Vogue.