As a dog owner in the UK, there’s no doubt that your dog is the cutest in the world. You have hundreds of photos of them and will spam your friends and family daily. Well, that’s great. But what if you want to make a little money out of it?
Dog modeling UK - Dog modeling in the United Kingdom can be fun for you and your dog and provide a little extra income, too!
Best dog modelling agencies in the UK
Finding a dog modeling agency is essential if you want to take your modeling beyond a hobby. You need someone to tell you about any jobs on the market and steer you away from anything that sounds a little dodgy.
There are tons of reputable dog modelling agencies out there, alongside some that aren’t so great.
Top 5 dog modelling agencies UK
For peace of mind and a professional experience, you should take a look at:
1. UrbanPawsUK
UrbanPaws have been running since 2015, and they have connections in the film and television industry and with high-end theatre productions.
If your dog is well-trained and can hack life on a film set, then this might be the agency for you.
Get in touch!
2. PetLondonModels
On the other hand, if it’s more of a magazine or Instagram vibe, you’re going for, as you’re confident in your pooch’s staying ability but not quite in their overall film set behavior, then Pet London Models might be the best fit for you. They have experience in modeling brands like Vogue and Mulberry.
Get in touch!
Dog model with pink heart glasses.
3. A-Z Animals
A-Z animal modeling agency.
A-Z Animals was founded in 1983 and has partnered with visionary filmmakers and photographers to produce some of the world’s most iconic animal content for advertising, film, photography, and events.
They only provide top-class trained animals with professional handlers and trainers to the film/media industries.
Some facts:
150 Feature Films
1500 TV commercials
3500 photographic assignments
Full Risk Assessments
£5m Public Liability Insurance Cover
No insurance claim in 33 years
Veterinary Surgeon Attendance and Welfare Certification arranged
Get in touch!
4. Dogs on Camera
We are Animal Consultants for Film, TV, Stage and Advertising. We have an extensive portfolio of dogs and other animals available to work.
Get in touch!
5. Pet Stories
Over the years, their photography service has introduced them to so many one-of-a-kind pets. They thought it was about time to connect their best pals with brands. They would like to use our position in the industry to promote not just the ‘top dog’ but the ‘under-dog’ too.
If you would like to hire a pet model for your next brand photo shoot, for social media content, or for a TV ad, get in touch to learn more about what they do.
How much does dog modeling pay in the UK?
The amount you make from dog modeling entirely depends on the jobs you take, the breed of your dog, and what they’re expected to do. Some pooches don’t make any money while modeling, mainly because their parents want to model as a hobby.
Most professional photoshoots will pay out around £120 per day. This will normally be a few hours of posing but could be up to a full day. However, if you want to make the big bucks, you should accept anything at first until you get the ball rolling.
How do I get my UK dog into modeling?
There are a few things you need to master before you can create a successful modeling career for your dog.
· Headshots
Your dog needs a business card. Having some professional photos in a range of different environments will let people know how flexible your dog can be and give people hiring your dog an impression of what they could achieve. A few snaps on your phone aren’t going to cut it!
· Resume
Creating a CV of your dog’s achievements and headshots will give anyone wanting to hire a dog model an impression of your dog’s behavior, attitude toward modeling, and any past experience. The more jobs they’ve had, the easier it is to get new ones. You should include previous jobs, dog training certificates, and unique characteristics.
· Agencies
While you might strike it lucky in your neighborhood and find someone who wants to photograph your dog, you’ll never reach the big leagues without an agent. They’ll understand where to find work and know about any jobs before you do to put you in the right place at the right time.
· Your USP
All dogs are different. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, so you must decide what makes your dog stand out from the crowd. Look for a niche market. This ensures you won’t get a ton of competition.
· Canine Classes
You won’t get very far if your dog isn’t trained. They need to be well-behaved and able to stay in one place for a long time. Even the most amazing-looking dogs won’t get far if they can’t sit still.
Top 5 UK brands looking for dog models
There are tons of brands always searching for great looking dogs to show off their wares. For some, the image of the dog is enough to convince them to buy a product.
1. Denzel's
Denzel showing off his treats!
At Denzel's, they hand-bake healthy, low-calorie dog treats in the UK, using only real natural ingredients, including sustainably sourced meat, fish, and wonky fruit and veg from local suppliers.
🌟 Read about Denzel's dog model program.
2. PawBakes
PawBakes products.
Both their biscuit and cupcake baking kits have completely recognizable ingredient lists & have had that all-important approval from our treasured pets – the PawBakes taste testers!
🌟 Read about their PawBakes dog model program.
3. PrettyLittleThing
Dog mom posing with her dog.
PrettyLittleThing is currently looking for dog models to show off their new range. To have a chance of your dog being featured, you must share an image of your pet on TikTok or Twitter using #PLTpet.
🌟 Read about PrettyLittleThing's dog model program!
4. The Barking Bakery
The Barking Bakery cake for dog influencers.
The Barking Bakery, run by Michelle and her dedicated canine cake tester Angus, creates delicious doggy delicacies, including a signature range of Woofins.
🌟 Read about The Barking Bakery's dog model program!
5. PetDreamHouse
Dog licking the PetDreamHouse Paw Lick Pad.
PetDreamHouse believes in the concept of game-like slow feeding, which is fun, exciting, and beneficial for health. The products of PetDreamHouse Interactive Feeding System are dynamic, multi-functional, and designed with a green mind.
🌟 Read about PetDreamHouse's dog model program!
Dog modelling competition UK 2022
Becoming a dog model isn’t just about getting on TV. Many dog models make it big by starting as online influencers advertising a range of puppy care products or foods. To get ahead of the competition, your dog will need to practice.
Check out the Top 50 Dog Influencers in Australia to see precisely what we mean.
10 skills a dog model needs:
To make it this far, you’ll need to master a few things:
1. Stay
It's pretty much essential to take a great photo!
2. Come
If you want a motion shot, your dog must move when you want them to.
3. Clothes
Lots of brands will want your dog to model their lines, so they need to get used to wearing certain items like bows. Brands that may require this are featured in the Top 25 Dog Clothing Brands.
4. Loud Noises
A film set is complete with loud and strange noises, and your dog must be confident around anything that sounds a little odd.
5. Camera Flashes
Even people don’t like camera flashes, so a little practice with this might be required beforehand.
6. Obstacles
Your dog might be required to jump over or sit on certain obstacles to get the part right. They’ll need to be well-trained and listen to you.
7. Other Animals
Other dogs or pets may be on the set, and your dog mustn’t go mad – or try to eat them!
8. Relationships with People
Your dog loves you, but they need to develop a good relationship with other people, too, so that they’ll listen to instructions.
9. Props
Props such as chairs, tables, and other household items may be used in the shoot. Your dog needs to get used to being around and not worry about the change of scenery.
10. Smile for the Camera
Looking at the camera! It’s no good if your dog is distracted and looking in the opposite direction.
Dog modeling UK - Q&A
How can I get my dog on TV in the UK?
The following six steps can help you get your dog on TV:
Make sure your dog has the right personality for the job.
Train your dog in basic obedience.
Add advanced training and special tricks to help your dog stand out from other dogs.
Take good photos of your pet to show UK-based dog modeling agencies and casting directors.
Get your dog any UK movie or UK TV work you can.
Contact animal actor agencies, extras agencies, and casting directors to inquire about opportunities for your dog to be in a commercial.
Does it matter what breed my dog is?
Dog models are required no matter what their breed is. However, some are more sought-after than others. Breeds like Labradors are common. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean finding a job will be easier as there’s more competition. There’s always work out there; you must look in the right places. That’s what your agency is for!
Will my dog enjoy modeling?
Modeling is what you make of it. Your dog is your best friend, and they’ll be happy to do anything with you, so why not make it a game? Modeling comes with many training and fun activities that your dog can enjoy. It’s not all about looks!
Is dog modeling dangerous?
In general, no. However, there will always be people who try to push the boundaries to make a few extra pounds. You always have the right to pull out if something seems too far. Never put your dog at risk.
Resources
https://www.hepper.com/how-to-get-your-dog-into-modeling/
https://www.petlondonmodels.com/
https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/prettylittlethings-hunting-dog-models-show-26526753
https://dogfluence.com/blog/top-50-dog-influencers-in-australia-that-surely-stand-out
https://dogfluence.com/blog/top-25-dog-clothing-brands