How handsome is this guy?! As an American Staffordshire Terrier, Tyson was the exact model I needed to photograph for this month’s Dog Fancy Magazine submission. Not only is he picture purrfect, he’s one of the most obedient and kind dogs I’ve ever met. This guy was top model material all the way! He would happily obey any commend we threw at him…sit, stay, wait, now walk, stop, catch the ball, bring it back, shake, lay down, roll over, look at the camera, smile, give kisses. He was SO freakin’ cute and fun, I could have photographed him ALL day.

His mom was no exception either. She was as nice as they come, totally willing to model. It’s often hard for me to convince people to get in the photos with their pets, so when they’re not only willing but excited to do it, I’m thrilled! Magazines LOVE to include photographs with people, so it greatly increases the chance of the photos being used when you agree to model with your pet. In this case, I love the fact that it also illustrates what great companions Staffordshire Terriers can be. Too often Staffies are perceived as a mean, bully breed when in fact, most of them have a heart of gold. Along with American Pit Bull Terriers (which we all know I’m a sucker for) they tend to get a bad wrap. So, whenever I have the opportunity to photograph them, I make it my mission to show how loving and obedient they can be. I DOUBLE DOG DARE you to look at Tyson’s images and tell me you don’t want to give this big teddy bear a HUGE hug!