Top 4 Favorite Enrichment Toys
Busy Buddy Kibble Nibble
We have used the Busy Buddy Kibble Nibble since Ellie was a tiny pup. Not only is it mentally stimulating, but it gets your dog moving around as they “hunt” for their food. There are two different sizes and each holds an entire meal. There are rubber bumpers that protect floors and furniture. Best part, it is dishwasher safe! You can find the Kibble Nibble on the PetSafe website or third party sites like Chewy.
Puzzles by Nina Ottoson
If you aren’t familiar with Nina Ottoson, quickly head over to the website where you will be met with a variety of toys, games, and puzzles. The toys are separated into 4 levels. Typically, the puzzle games have your dog find hidden treats. A recent favorite is the Dog Snuffle N' Treat Ball. Similar to the other games, this toy provides physical and mental stimulation.
Snuffle Mat
The snuffle mat is a simple item that can serve several functions. Snuffle mats provide enrichment and mental stimulation while your dog snuffles for treats. It also helps develop a dog’s sense of smell. Additionally, it can be used to slow down a fast eater. Snuffle mats come in a variety of formats, shapes, and colors. The snuffle mat has strips of fabric that can be arranged into folds, pockets, and flaps. A recent favorite of mine is the Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Stuff N' Snuffle Interactive Plush Puzzle & Snuffle Ball Dog Toy. The snuffle is formed into a ball for even more fun!
Project Hive Pet Company Chew Toy
The Project Hive Pet Company Chew Toy is a fetch/chew toy and treat dispenser. There are several options on how to use this interactive chew toy. It is compatible with the Hive Chew Stick Treats that easily fit inside of the toy, making it easy and quick to prep. I love when no advance prep is required! Chewing promotes healthy teeth and gums. We also sometimes just press kibble into the center. When there are just a few pieces of kibble left, it is fun to bounce the toy and watch the erratic bounce that sends kibble flying. Dogs and people alike get excited. This is another dishwasher safe toy! It can be purchased from the creators website, but is also available on sites such as Chewy or Amazon.
5 Tips for taking cute snaps of your pet
“When I open my camera, my pet….”
…finish the sentence. Maybe they run away or turn their head. I hear so many funny stories about how your pet reacts to your phone camera. Sometimes your pet is just being adorable and you want a quick photo. Here are my top tips for getting your pet to cooperate with your hope for a cute snap…
Use treats!
No shame in a little “bribe”, although I like to just think of it as “payment”. Nobody likes working for free, including your dog. Use something that you know is motivating to your pet. Additionally, I find that a small and soft treat serves my purpose much better than a crunchy milk bone. Those smaller treats get swallowed a lot faster and allow you to get back in there and capture another photo. Otherwise I find that the pup likes crunch and focus on their treat before reengaging with you.
2. Make noises!
Make all the noises to get your pet’s attention. Use toys and squeakers…whatever your pet might respond to. The louder/more exciting/high pitched noises the better. Hold any squeakers right near the camera so your pet will look in that direction. Noises are one of my secret weapons to get those cute expressions in my portraits. My “dolphin noise” is usually a clincher and often gets that head tilt!
3. Give them time and space!
My first priority during our sessions is always the pet’s comfort and working with them instead of against them. Just like us, sometimes your pet might not want a photo. Give them some time and come back to it later or another day! You are definitely not going to get that laid back or comfortable look you are wanting if he/she starts in a place of annoyance lol!
4. Get low!
Get on their level! One of the biggest differences you can make in your shots is getting more of an eye level photo. It allows for such a better connection between your pet and the camera! it stand out
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
5. Have fun!
The best way to get personality filled photos is to enjoy yourself and make sure your pet is enjoying themselves as well. They will be much more likely to put on that smile you love if you are just having fun!
When to Hire a Professional Pet Photographer
While snapping day-to-day photos of your pet is wonderful (and with a few tips, you can absolutely improve your own shots!), there are some special moments that deserve something more.
As a professional, I bring more than just a camera—I bring experience, patience, and a deep understanding of how to connect with animals to truly bring out their personalities.
Here are just a few benefits of hiring a pro like me:
You get to relax and enjoy the experience. No stress, no chasing the perfect shot—just you and your pet having a great time.
Your pet gets to be the star. Most animals love the attention and play, making the shoot fun and natural.
I capture your pet's true personality. Whether it’s their quirky smile, soulful eyes, or signature head tilt, I specialize in creating portraits that reflect the way you see them.
High-quality, lasting artwork. Each photo is professionally edited, designed, and printed to create heirloom-quality pieces you’ll treasure forever.
A snapshot captures a moment—my portraits tell a story. Let’s create something beautiful together!
Would you like me to help turn this into a blog post, social media caption, or something else?
