From Heartbreak to Puppy Love. Welcoming joy with a new puppy!

As we kick off a brand-new year, with hope for new beginnings, I have had the privilege to be a part of sharing in the joy that only a new puppy can bring.

Just a few months ago, a special family bid a tearful farewell to their cherished companion, a scruffy little dog named Miley.

The void left behind brought so much sorrow to their home and hearts, and an incredible longing for a new pet to love.

And then unexpectedly, just as we ring in a New Year, a tiny ball of fur named Izzy entered the scene, bringing the chance for joy and love that only a puppy can give. The family had not planned to get a new puppy yet. They were waiting for the right time. But as fate would have it, sometimes the right time just happens upon you!

On a cloudy and cool day while on vacation, the family saw a notification about some puppies. With nothing better to do they went “just to look!” Well who can just look at a puppy without falling in love! And so they did…with this little imp.

tiny black and white puppy in her bed.

It's been just a few days since Izzy, the pint-sized dynamo, wagged her way into their lives.

And let me tell you, she's wasting no time proving that the journey of raising a new puppy is no walk in the park. The family are already knee-deep in the trials and tribulations of raising a puppy.

This is the start of the toilet training challenge.  Puddles are par for the course, but the laughs and love has certainly made up for the learning curve of puppy parenting.

Chew toys are now the heroes at home, and the rest of the house is all about making it safe for the puppy. Shoes, books, and rugs have sadly been stashed away, casualties of teething mischief. But in the midst of all this playful chaos, something magical is happening.

Izzy, with her boundless energy and unconditional love, is already helping to heal the broken hearts of the children. The adorable puppy may be small, but her impact on their lives is immeasurable.

 

Already the advantages of having a puppy have become evident!

While puppies are celebrated for the joy they can bring, they also offer a variety of other benefits ranging from improved physical health to enhanced emotional well-being.

Benefits of bringing a puppy into your life.

1. Unconditional Love and Companionship

One of the most apparent benefits of getting a new puppy is the companionship they provide. Puppies are known for their boundless energy and affection, offering unconditional love that can significantly enrich your daily life. The joy of coming home to a wagging tail is profound!

2. Physical Exercise and Health Improvement

Puppies are naturally active and playful, requiring daily exercise. This encourages their owners to become more active as they take puppies for walks, runs, and engage in playtime. The physical activity benefits the puppy's health while also fostering a healthier and more active lifestyle for the puppy parents.

3. Stress Reduction and Emotional Support

Numerous studies have shown that interacting with puppies, can reduce stress and lower blood pressure. Puppies are excellent emotional support companions, providing comfort and reducing feelings of loneliness.

4. Social Interaction

Owning a puppy is a great conversation starter. Taking your new furry friend for walks or to a dog park creates opportunities for social interaction with other dog owners. This can lead to new found friendships and an improved social life.

As this family can attest to, bringing a new puppy into your home can contribute to a more fulfilling and enriched life,  bringing countless smiles and lasting memories.

So, here's to a new beginning in the New Year!

Cheers to Izzy, who, in just a few days, has turned their world upside down in the most heartwarming way.

cute black and white puppy running
 

As they embark on this journey of laughter, love, and the occasional chewed-up slipper, the best is yet to come.

Here's to a year filled with puppy kisses, wagging tails, and the unspoken magic that happens when a family opens their hearts to a new furry friend.

Tips for photographing a new puppy

I had so much fun photographing this cute little pup, making memories of a time in her life that is all too short as we know how quickly these little ones grow!

I took these photos at the family’s home in Toronto.

Home is usually the best place to photograph a new puppy where they are likely to be more comfortable and relaxed. Going to a new location, especially outdoors or a studio, can be overwhelming for a young puppy.

Photographing a puppy isn’t easy! So here’s a few tips to help you document those first few weeks.

  1. Get Down to Their Level

    Sit or lie on the ground to take photos from the puppy's eye level for a more personal perspective.

  2. Use Natural Light

    Take photos outdoors or near a window to avoid using flash, which can scare puppies and cause harsh shadows.

  3. Focus on Their Eyes

    A puppy’s eyes are full of expression—make sure they’re sharp and clear in your photos.

  4. Grab Their Attention

    Use a squeaky toy, a treat, or even make silly noises to get them to look at the camera.

  5. Take Lots of Photos

    Puppies move quickly, so snap a bunch of pictures to make sure you capture the perfect moment.

  6. Show Their Personality

    Whether they’re playing, sleeping, or being curious, try to capture what makes your puppy unique.

  7. Keep It Simple

    Use a plain background or take photos outside to keep the focus on your adorable puppy.

  8. Catch Them in Action

    Take photos while they’re playing or running for fun and dynamic shots.

  9. Be Quick but Gentle

    Puppies have short attention spans, so work fast and make the experience fun for them.

 

I can’t wait to watch this little puppy grow and create more wonderful photographic memories for the family and kids who’ve fallen in love again!

Are you bringing a dog into your home soon? Are you a first time dog owner? Here is some helpful information for first time dog owners or anyone thinking of getting a new dog.

 

Feel free to contact me to discuss a photo session for your own puppy. We’ll have so much fun!

 

Not quite ready for a consult? No problem! Join my mailing list below for all things dog related, helpful info, special offers on photography and more.

 

Terri J Photography specializes in on-location pet and puppy photography including family and couples sessions with your beloved pets. Terri serves the Greater Toronto area including Richmond Hill, Markham, Etobicoke, Vaughan, Scarborough, Brampton, Thornhill and beyond.