Look, I’ve been taking dog christmas pictures for years now, and let me tell you—half the magic isn’t just your adorable pup (though they’re obviously the star). It’s the props. The right props can turn a decent holiday dog picture into something that’ll make your friends scroll back up and double-tap.
Last year, I spent way too much money on props I used exactly once. This year? I’m smarter. I’ve figured out what actually works for christmas dog photos, and I’m sharing it all with you. No fluff, just the good stuff that’ll make your festive pet portraits actually worth framing.
Essential Background Props That Actually Work
The Classic Christmas Blanket Setup
You know those chunky knit blankets everyone’s obsessed with? Yeah, they’re perfect for this. I use a cream-colored one as my base for literally every christmas photo idea with dog that I execute. It’s neutral, it’s cozy, and it doesn’t compete with your pup for attention.
Here’s what I’ve learned works best:
- Faux fur throws – They photograph like a dream and hide dog hair (you’re welcome)
- Red plaid blankets – Screams Christmas without trying too hard
- White cable knit – Clean, classic, makes any dog in christmas outfit pop
Pro tip: Layer them. One solid base blanket, then drape another texture on top. It adds depth to your photos that you didn’t even know you needed.
Backdrops That Don’t Look Cheap
I’ll be honest—I tried those printed Christmas backdrops from Amazon, and they looked exactly like what they were: cheap printed fabric. Instead, I built my own setup that I use every year.
My go-to backdrop solution? A large piece of white poster board propped against the wall with a string of warm fairy lights draped across it. Add some pine garland, and boom—you’ve got yourself a setup that doesn’t scream “I bought this for $15.”
For outdoor shots, I just find a good wall or fence and let the natural winter vibes do the work. Sometimes simple beats elaborate, you know?
Costume Props Your Dog Might Actually Tolerate
Santa Hats and Reindeer Antlers
Listen, not all dogs are going to sit still wearing a full cute dog santa costume. Mine definitely won’t. But a simple Santa hat? That’s usually doable for at least 30 seconds—which is all you need.
Here’s my strategy:
- Adjustable Santa hats with elastic – They stay on better than the cheap ones
- Headband-style reindeer antlers – Less annoying for dogs than the ones that tie under the chin
- Bow ties and bandanas – Perfect for dogs who hate anything on their heads
I keep treats in my pocket and work fast. Like, really fast. Get in, get the shot, reward the dog. IMO, it’s not worth stressing them out for a photo. 🙂
Holiday Scarves and Sweaters
If your dog tolerates clothing (and that’s a big if), a festive sweater is clutch for holiday dog pictures. I have three that I rotate through:
- A classic red Fair Isle sweater
- A green “Merry Woofmas” tee (yes, it’s cheesy, but it’s adorably cheesy)
- A simple plaid vest for the more sophisticated look
The key is comfort. If your dog looks miserable, the photo will look miserable. Choose soft fabrics and make sure nothing’s too tight. You want festive pet portraits, not hostage photos.
Decorative Props That Add the Christmas Magic
Mini Christmas Trees
I bought a 2-foot tabletop Christmas tree specifically for dog photos, and it’s paid for itself ten times over. You can position it right next to your pup for that perfect Christmas morning vibe.
Get one that’s pre-lit with warm white lights. The glow adds a magical quality to your christmas dog photos that editing can’t replicate. Plus, it’s just easier—plug it in and you’re done.
Wrapped Presents and Gift Boxes
Empty boxes wrapped in festive paper are your best friend. I’m talking about it—stack them, scatter them, let your dog “open” them (supervised, obviously). They add color, dimension, and that unmistakable Christmas morning feel.
My box collection includes:
- Various sizes (small, medium, and one comically large one)
- Classic wrapping paper patterns—red, green, gold, silver
- Oversized bows that photograph beautifully
FYI, I use double-sided tape instead of regular tape so I can unwrap and rewrap these every year. Sustainable and budget-friendly.
Ornaments and Baubles
Here’s where you can get creative. I scatter oversized ornaments around my setup—the shatterproof kind because, well, dogs.
Large red and gold baubles look stunning in photos. They catch the light, add pops of color, and fill empty spaces in your frame. Just make sure they’re not small enough for your dog to think they’re toys. Been there, had to wrestle a shiny ball away from a very determined terrier.
Lighting Props That Make Everything Better
String Lights and Fairy Lights
You ever wonder why some dog christmas pictures just glow? Fairy lights, friend. Fairy lights.
I keep three sets on hand:
- Warm white string lights – Classic, cozy, works with everything
- Colored Christmas lights – For that nostalgic, vintage vibe
- Battery-operated fairy lights – For wrapping around props without worrying about cords
Drape them in the background, wrap them around your mini tree, or even gently place a strand near (not on) your dog. The bokeh effect when they’re out of focus? Chef’s kiss.
Candles (The LED Kind)
Real candles + excited dog = disaster waiting to happen. But LED candles? Those are perfect.
I use the ones with realistic flickering flames. They add warmth to your photos without the fire hazard. Cluster a few different heights together for visual interest, or place them on a mantle in the background if you’re shooting in your living room.
Food Props (That Your Dog Probably Shouldn’t Eat)
Candy Canes and Gingerbread Cookies
Life-size candy canes make adorable props. I found oversized ones at a craft store that are perfect for leaning against gift boxes or holding in your dog’s mouth (if they’re particularly well-trained—mine is not).
Faux gingerbread cookies or felt ornaments shaped like cookies are safer options than the real deal. Because let’s be real, if you use actual gingerbread, you’re just asking for trouble. And by trouble, I mean your dog eating the entire setup while you adjust your camera settings. :/
Hot Cocoa Setup
This one’s more for the humans involved, but a cute mug of hot cocoa (or fake cocoa—I use brown-painted cotton balls sometimes, don’t judge) adds a cozy element. Pair it with a dog in a Christmas outfit curled up nearby, and you’ve got yourself a whole mood.
Storage and Reusability Tips
Here’s something nobody tells you: storing all these props is a pain. I learned this the hard way after year one when I just threw everything in a garbage bag.
Now I use clear plastic bins labeled “Christmas Dog Props.” Everything has its place, nothing gets crushed, and I can see what I have without opening every container. It sounds basic, but it’s genuinely changed my life come December.
Plus, investing in quality props you’ll use year after year is way smarter than buying cheap stuff annually. My mini Christmas tree, good blankets, and shatterproof ornaments have been with me for three years now. They’ve paid for themselves in Instagram likes alone (kidding, but also not really).
Budget-Friendly Alternatives
Look, not everyone wants to drop serious cash on props for a few photos. I get it. Here are some alternatives I’ve used:
- DIY paper snowflakes instead of expensive decorations
- Printed Christmas patterns on regular poster board instead of fancy backdrops
- Your own Christmas tree (just clear a space in front of it)
- Scarves from your closet instead of buying dog-specific ones
- Pine branches from your yard scattered around for that natural touch
The best christmas dog photos come from creativity, not necessarily from spending a ton of money. Some of my favorite shots have been the simplest setups.
Final Thoughts
Creating the perfect DIY dog photoshoot setup doesn’t require a photography degree or unlimited funds. It requires patience (with your dog and yourself), some basic props, and the willingness to take about 400 photos to get the one.
My advice? Start small. Get a good blanket, a Santa hat, and some fairy lights. Build from there based on what your dog tolerates and what style you’re going for. Every dog is different—my friend’s retriever will wear a full elf costume, while my mutt barely tolerates a bandana.
The goal is capturing those festive pet portraits that make you smile every time you see them. Whether that means a simple setup with just a Santa hat or a full-blown Christmas wonderland with every prop imaginable—do what works for you and your pup.
Now grab your camera, bribe your dog with treats, and go create some magic. Your holiday card isn’t going to shoot itself! 🙂
