Celebrating London Dog Dads: Loving Bonds, Early Walks, and photography
Sometimes, it's in the way they kneel without hesitation on wet grass. Or how they pack the same tattered tennis ball for every walk. Or the easy rhythm between them and their dog - no words needed, just glances, gestures, and shared space.
This Father's Day may have passed, but the bonds between men and their dogs deserve celebrating any day of the year. And with Men's Health Week freshly behind us, it felt like the right time to reflect on how dogs so often become an anchor, a support system, and even a lifeline for the men who love them.
As a London dog photographer, I've had the privilege of witnessing these relationships firsthand. Not every man wants to pose for a portrait - but give him his dog, and suddenly the world softens. The photo becomes less about the camera and more about a moment they might otherwise never pause to preserve.
This blog is a small tribute - a montage of dog dads I've had the pleasure of photographing over the last few months. Different dogs, different men, but always the same quiet depth.
James and Carlota, Epping Forest
Exploring places like Epping Forest with your own dog? My outdoor dog photography sessions are built for moments like these: relaxed, natural, and full of heart.
Carlota is a spaniel with all the usual trimmings - spring-loaded energy, scent-driven curiosity, and a heart that beats for the chase. But she's also impressively focused. One moment, she's dashing into the bracken after a new smell; the next, she's trotting back to James, poised and ready to pose.
This session wasn't something James planned for himself - it was a gift from his brother, a nod to how much Carlota means to him. And watching him lean into it, watching him look at Carlota with such pride, reminded me just how joyful it can be to simply be with your dog.
Carlota worked beautifully for him. Her eagerness to please, her trust, and her zest for life made the shoot a breeze. The light filtered through the trees, and with James reclining against a moss-covered root, Carlota climbed into his lap, placing one paw gently on his knee. Their eyes met and that was the moment. No need for words.
James told me how much he cherishes their walks together. How, with a demanding job and busy London life, those quiet hours in nature with Carlota are his sanctuary. Their bond was obvious. There was laughter throughout the session, but there were also still moments where time felt paused and peaceful.
Jake and Phoenix, Studio Session
Curious about what a studio dog photography session in London can look like? My sessions are custom-built for comfort and character. No pressure, just play and connection..
Alexander and Peggy, Richmond Park
Peggy isn't the cuddly type. She's a sleek black Labrador - intelligent, observant, and independent. But her connection with Alexander? Deep, steady, undeniable.
We met early in Richmond Park. The deer were still bedded down, and the air had that hush that only comes with a London morning before the city wakes. Peggy was alert but calm, glancing toward Alexander for instruction, always tuned into his next move.
Alexander mentioned how much he treasures their morning walks. It's a time for reflection - especially now that life has shifted with a new baby at home. Peggy, his first companion, remains by his side, offering continuity and calm.
What stood out to me was the way Peggy held space. She didn't need to lean in close or beg for attention. Instead, she stayed just nearby - responsive, loyal, always connected. When Alexander knelt to be closer to her, she remained still and watchful. That quiet trust was so powerful.
Later, during the gallery reveal, Alexander grew emotional seeing the bond captured so clearly. Sometimes photography shows you what you already know - and sometimes it reveals something deeper you didn't realise you'd been longing to see.
What Dog Dads Teach Us About Wellbeing
Dogs don't care what job you do, how many hours you work, or how much you earn. They care that you're there. Present, engaged, leading the way or simply walking alongside them.
As Men's Health Week reminds us each June, mental health for men is still far too often unspoken. But as someone who photographs dogs and the people who love them, I see it every day: the way a dog gives a man a reason to get outside. The way they bring structure and routine. The way they listen without judgment.
Whether it's early walks in Richmond Park, weekend hikes on Hampstead Heath, or Sunday snoozes on the sofa, dogs become a support system many men didn't know they needed, and now can't imagine living without.
Photography becomes a way to honour that support. Not posed or polished - just honest. Because the bond deserves to be seen.
There isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to being a dog dad. Some wear wax jackets and kneel in dewy fields. Some carry pine cones in their pockets, because like Phoenix, that’s her fun reward of choice.. Some quietly make space in their busy schedules to walk the same path every day, with the same loyal dog by their side.
What they all share is something quieter than words. It's in how their dogs look at them. And in how they look back.
Ready to Celebrate Your Bond?
Whether it's Father's Day or just an ordinary Thursday, let this be your reminder: you deserve to be seen in your story with your dog. Not for Instagram, not for likes - just for you.
Looking for a London dog photographer who understands dogs as much as they understand light? Visit my portrait session page to see how I create images that reflect the love, loyalty, and unique story you share with your dog.
Because every human-dog bond deserves to be remembered.
