From Paws to Santa Claus: A Guide to Including Your Pet in Your 2025 Christmas Cards

Try a jumping photo where all members are caught mid-air, either outside or indoors, by the tree. Use treats if your dog is trained to jump for them, or you can bring along a frisbee or a tennis ball to encourage them to get airborne. If timing the jumps with your pet is too difficult and your pet is small enough, try holding them in your arms while jumping.

Take the camera down to ground level and snap a few family pictures with your dog at an angle that captures the world through their eyes. If you want to include family members in the photo too, place your pet closest to the camera with the rest of the family in the background, slightly out of focus.

Show friends and family how much you truly love your pooch! Pick your dog off the ground and wrap both hands around them to show them off to the world. Be sure to take a collection of photos, as it can sometimes be challenging to get your dog to look into the camera. This pose works great if you have multiple pets or both dogs and cats, as different family members can hold each pet and keep them calm and separated for the picture.

Wrap a box up as a present with one side open so that your pet can peek out of it. For cats who especially love boxes, it should be a breeze getting them to stay in one. Prop the present box by the tree, the fire, or have a family member hold the box for a festive look.

Cookies for Santa, or should we say biscuits? Lay some treats and milk out for Santa, but make sure your pet doesn’t nibble away at these tasty bits until after the photo. A funny Christmas card photo idea could feature a second plate (next to Santa’s plate of cookies) with a sign that says “[Your Dog’s Name] treats” or “reindeer biscuits”, with your dog munching away on them. Or, can they balance a treat on their nose and show good discipline!

Set up a backdrop that creates a magical winter wonderland for your pet’s photo shoot. If you live somewhere with snow, you can take the photoshoot outdoors and snap some action shots of your pet frolicking in the snow or beside snow-covered greenery or trees. For an indoor option, have your pet pose beside your fireplace or tree with cutouts of snowflakes, white and silver tinsel, and other festive snowy decorations.

Candids and accidental moments can sometimes make for the best and pictures! While you might try your best to get your pet to behave so you can get the perfect shot, sometimes a funny picture of your pet sticking out their tongue or even licking your face can make for an unexpectedly adorable holiday card photo. Take a look through some of your “outtakes” and see if any make for good action shots you can use.

Wrap you and your pet in a cozy holiday blanket for a comfortable, close-up shot. This pose creates a warm, intimate feel perfect for showcasing the bond between you and your furry friend. It's also a great option for pets who might be uncomfortable with more elaborate setups.

Give your cat or dog the spotlight with this artistic Christmas pet photo pose. Add some front door decorations like a wreath, sprigs of holly, or Christmas lights to set the holiday backdrop, then have your pet sit and stay while you take their portrait. The Christmas mantle or beside the family tree are other areas that make for great backdrops for pet portraits, too.

Capture a sweet moment between you and your pet under some mistletoe. For dogs, this could be a kiss on the head. For cats, a gentle nose boop might be more their style. This pose adds a touch of holiday romance and humor to your card.

Set up a kitchen scene with your pet wearing a chef's hat or apron, surrounded by holiday baking supplies like cookie cutters, rolling pins, and measuring cups. Sprinkle some flour around their paws to create "evidence" of their helpful baking efforts, and include some pet-safe treats shaped like cookies on the counter. Position them standing on their hind legs with front paws on the counter, or sitting attentively next to a mixing bowl as if they're waiting for their turn to help.

Transform your pet into Santa's mail carrier with a small messenger bag or mail carrier hat, surrounded by letters addressed "To: Santa, North Pole." Create a pile of envelopes and packages around them, and have them "delivering" or sorting through the mail. You can even include a few letters with your family's return address to make it more personal, showing that your pet is helping deliver your holiday wishes to the North Pole.

Position your pet as the "security" for all the Christmas presents, with them sitting alertly next to the gift pile, wearing a badge or security hat. Have them look very serious about their important job of protecting the presents from early unwrapping. You can add a small "Security" sign or walkie-talkie prop to emphasize their official role as the household's Christmas bouncer.

Create numbered pockets or boxes (1-25) with your pet pointing to or "opening" December 25th. You can use small paper bags, envelopes, or boxes arranged in a grid pattern on the wall or floor. Have your pet interact with the calendar by placing their paw on the "25" or having them peek into one of the numbered compartments as if they're checking how many days until Christmas.

Attach jingle bells to your pet's collar or have them gently hold small bells in their mouth, capturing them mid-shake for a dynamic action shot. The key is to photograph them as the bells are in motion to create a sense of movement and sound in the image. Set this up against a festive backdrop and use a faster shutter speed to freeze the motion while still showing the blur of the bells for that perfect "making music" moment.

Remember, you don't have to limit yourself to just one perfect shot! Minted offers a variety of multi-photo holiday cards that allow you to showcase all your favorite moments from your pet photo shoot. This is a great way to capture different poses, expressions, or even include photos of multiple pets. Consider a collage-style card or a folded card with space for several images to tell a more complete story of your furry family members this holiday season.

Add a touch of holiday cheer with fun holiday-themed accessories that are also comfortable and safe for your pet.

• Antlers. Transform your pet into a cute reindeer with a pair of antlers. Choose lightweight, adjustable antlers to ensure your pet's comfort. This look works especially well for medium to large dogs, but can be adorable on cats too if they're patient enough!
• Santa Hats. A classic Santa hat can instantly make your pet look holiday-ready. Opt for a hat with an elastic band to keep it in place. For smaller pets or those who don't like things on their heads, consider a tiny Santa hat that clips onto their collar instead.
• Bows. For a touch of elegance, try festive bows. You can attach them to your pet's collar, harness, or even gently clip them to their fur (using pet-safe clips). Choose colors that complement your pet's fur – red and green are classic, but gold or silver can be stunning on darker-coated pets.
• Holiday Sweaters. Keep your pet warm and stylish with a holiday sweater. Look for designs with easy on/off access and make sure it's not too tight or restrictive. Popular options include Fair Isle patterns, snowflake designs, or sweaters that make your pet look like an elf or Santa.

Get creative and color-coordinate between the family members. Remember to settle on a color palette and consider complimentary colors that will help match you to the season, background, or simply each other. Feel free to stray from the classic red and green color combo and opt for wintery whites or an array of blues and neutrals. Just make sure your pet’s color fur is contrasted with whatever they’re wearing, otherwise, it might blend in too much.

For something a little more joyful and whimsical, wear coordinating, matching outfits. It can be anything from similar sweaters, Christmas light necklaces, matching socks, or even a onesie. You can never go wrong with a flannel look in your Christmas photo! The possibilities are endless, and you can check out our Christmas outfit ideas guide for more inspiration.

• Schedule shoot 1-2 hours after feeding (not immediately before or after meals) to avoid sluggishness or hunger distractions.
• Exercise your pet beforehand to tire them out: a walk for dogs or a play session for cats helps them settle during the shoot.
• Allow time for bathroom breaks before starting to prevent interruptions.
• Consider your pet's natural energy patterns and schedule during their calmer periods.

• Gather all props and test camera settings in advance to avoid fumbling during the shoot.
• Clean and charge camera/phone batteries, and test that everything is working correctly.
• Set up the shooting area away from distractions like other pets, loud noises, or high-traffic areas.
• Test lighting conditions and adjust the setup accordingly.
• Prepare your shooting space with non-slip surfaces for pet safety.

• Have high-value treats ready (whatever motivates your specific pet most) - small, soft treats work best for quick rewards.
• Prepare backup outfits in case of accidents, spills, or if your pet rejects the first choice.
• Gather grooming supplies for last-minute touch-ups (brush, pet wipes, etc.).
• Set out costume pieces in advance so your pet can get familiar with them.

For a comprehensive overview of all your holiday planning needs, see our Christmas preparation checklist.

Even the best-laid plans can go awry when pets are involved. Having these supplies on hand will help you handle unexpected situations and keep your photo session running smoothly.

Quick Cleanup Essentials:

• Pet wipes for quick cleanups of muddy paws, drool, or minor messes
• Lint roller for removing pet fur from clothes and props
• Paper towels and stain remover for unexpected accidents
• Grooming brush for last-minute fur touch-ups

Motivation & Attention Tools:

• Extra treats and fresh water to keep your pet happy and hydrated
• Favorite toy for attention-getting when they lose focus
• Backup squeaky toys or noise-makers for different attention-grabbing needs
• Comfort items like their favorite blanket, if they become anxious

Technical Backup:

• Backup SD cards/phone storage in case you run out of space
• Portable phone charger or extra camera batteries
• Flashlight or small LED light for emergency lighting adjustments

Safety & Comfort:

• First aid supplies (just in case), including pet-safe antiseptic and bandages
• Your pet's regular medication, if they take any
• Contact information for your veterinarian
• Towels for drying wet paws or providing comfort
• Extra leash or harness as backup restraint if needed

Capturing a Christmas photo with your pets can be difficult since some pets may be camera-shy, scared, or simply confused by a camera. To get them comfortable with being in front of one, give them the opportunity to sniff out the camera and become familiar with it. Click a few shots away from them so that they are ok with the sounds. Giving treats will help show them that the camera isn’t a threat. This will help encourage positive associations with it so that once you start clicking away, they’re not running.

Is your dog or cat always looking off into the distance? While cute in some candid photos, maybe you would prefer them to look in the same direction as everyone else. To help with this, we recommend squeezing their favorite squeaky toy or dangling a treat above the camera, then calling their name. This will help get them excited and look your way for the photo. Holding their attention will be even easier if you reduce as many external distractions (loud music, other animals, strangers, etc.) as possible.

We all know getting the perfect Christmas pet photos may require repeated attempts. This might mean carrying your pet for longer than they are used to or expecting them to sit or lie down for longer than they would like. Maybe they’re bored or antsy, and like kids, would rather run off and play with a squirrel they saw. Pets typically respond negatively to unfamiliar or stressful situations, which often makes them less inclined to sit still.

Before the photoshoot, play with your pets so that they are happy and tired out. Consider taking them for a walk or playing a game of tug-of-war with your dog. For cats, laser pointers or a dangling feather toy are often a hit. Relaxation supplements are also readily available at your local pet shop. These supplements are safe and will help put them at ease by reducing stress and anxiety. This will be particularly useful if your pet is feeling uncomfortable during a lengthy photo shoot.

Just as people get done up before a photoshoot, groom your pet to make sure they’re looking their best. While a professional grooming session may not be on the docket this year, you’d be surprised how much of a difference bathing or brushing out their fur can make.

When setting up your holiday photo shoot, always prioritize your pet's safety and comfort. Use pet-friendly props that won't cause harm if chewed or knocked over. Avoid small items that could be swallowed, and make sure any lights or electrical decorations are out of reach. Choose non-toxic, pet-safe materials for any DIY props or backdrops. Remember, a happy and relaxed pet makes for the best photos, so create an environment where they feel safe and at ease.

Aim for good lighting by shooting during golden hour or in a space where natural light is abundant. During golden hour, the sun is low and more diffused, so it will give your Christmas photos with pets a warm and golden glow. If you’re unable to take a photo during that period, opt for an area with lots of natural light, which will allow you to skip the flash. Flashes can often create poor coloration or that yellow-green light in your pet’s eyes. Additionally, the sudden burst of light from flashes may startle your pets and increase stress. For more lighting tips, read through our additional tips for taking photographs yourself.

Capturing the perfect photo is stressful already, so instead of worrying about poses with your dog, candid photos are always fun and natural. Action shots of your pets playing, running, or even blissfully lying in your lap are great options. Allow your pet to be comfortable in their typical surroundings, and you’ll be able to capture their happy everyday emotions on camera. Just keep your camera or phone handy since you never know when they’re going to do the silliest or picture-worthy thing.

Having a lot of options will be helpful in case someone closes their eyes, looks in the wrong direction, or moves. The variety of options will also make pairing it with a card easier since some Minted designs look better with a close-up or panned-out image. If you’re indecisive but love multiple shots, you’ll be able to choose multi-photo designs to feature plenty of your favorite pet photos.

While we’ve given you plenty of guidance on what to do when taking a photo of your pet, there are a few things you’ll want to avoid doing to get the purrfect shot.

• Don't use flash photography, as it can startle or disorient your pet.
• Avoid noisy props or sudden loud sounds that might frighten your pet.
• Don't force your pet into uncomfortable positions or costumes they clearly dislike.
• Avoid cluttered backgrounds that can distract from your pet.
• Don't rush the process – patience is key to getting great pet photos.
• Avoid scheduling the photo shoot during your pet's usual nap or meal times.
• Don't forget to take breaks if your pet seems tired or uninterested.

If you feel like coordinating outfits and a photoshoot is altogether too much work, help is abundant. Local and chain pet shops like PetSmart and PetCo often have in-store events offering free pet photos with Santa. You can also check if one of your local malls or outlets is hosting a “Take Your Picture with Santa” event that welcomes every member of the family, pets included.

You can also check Minted's list of top-notch photographers to find a photographer in your state who can take photos with you and your furry friend. Professional photoshoots range widely in cost but can start around $250 for 60 minutes. Share with your photographer that you want to have a photo taken with your pet, so they can help you nail the best poses with dogs or cats, lighting, props, and backgrounds. The resulting photos are sure to be instant favorites that you’ll want to use in beautifully framed photo wall art, and more.

Now that you’ve gotten the perfect Christmas pet photos, you might be wondering how to pair them with a clever holiday greeting. The traditional “Happy Holidays,” “Joy To The World,” or anything on our list of Christmas card messages can do the trick, but in case you prefer something a little punnier, draw some inspiration from the list below! With Minted cards, you can easily swap out the greeting if you have something else you like better.

Dog-themed Greetings

• Feliz Naughty Dog
• Happy Howlidays!
• Paw-la-la-la-la
• Barking Around The Christmas Tree
• Have A Howly Jowly Christmas
• We Woof You a Merry Christmas
• Santa Paws is Coming to Town
• Have a Doggone Merry Christmas
• Deck the Paws
• Wag the Halls
• All I Want for Christmas is Chew
• Ruff Around the Christmas Tree

NAUGHTY HOLIDAY DOG by The Social Type

Cat-themed Greetings

• Meowy Christmas!
• Feliz Navi-Cat
• Purr-fect Holidays
• Santa Claws is Coming
• Whiskers You a Merry Christmas
• The Cat-mas Spirit
• Meow-y Christmas and a Happy New Year
• Have a Purr-fectly Meowy Christmas

Multi-pet Greetings

• Kindly Disregard my Resting Grinch Face
• Merry Christmas from my Humans
• I Helped Lick the Envelopes
• Tis the Season to be Furry
• Furever Merry
• May Your Holidays Be Furry and Bright

Odds are, you likely already have a few tubes of this lying around. Washable body paint and finger paint will work best, but tempera or water-based ones will work too. For tempera and water-based paint, just make sure it's labeled as non-toxic and child-safe.

When working with paint, be sure to wash off their paws immediately after stamping to avoid potential digestion. Even though it's non-toxic, eating paint should still be avoided if possible.

Skip the paints and inks by using an edible alternative. Mix a package of Kool-Aid with some water to create a thick paste. Make sure to keep the amount of water moderate; if there’s too much water, the “paint” will not properly stick to their paw. Spread the paste or brush it onto their paw, and once it's coated, press it into the paper. Allow the imprint to dry out completely before stuffing the card into the envelopes. Once that’s done, reward them by letting them lick it off; it’s perfectly safe! Use a wet towel or grooming wipe if you don’t want them to consume any sugar.

Ink pads can be an easier and less messy alternative. Craft shops like Hobby Lobby often sell ink pads made specifically to be pet-friendly, so be sure to check the stamp aisles. Our favorite is Colorbox Pawprints. With a steady hand, these ink pads will help leave the best impression.

You can also create a custom stamp of their paws. Various online retailers will create a custom stamp of your pet’s paw. All they’ll need is a photo or outline of their paw print. If you opt for this route, you’ll be able to use a larger variety of paints and inks, especially those with glitter, which can be a fun touch for the holidays.

When stamping pawprints, make sure your pet is first on board to help. Trim long nails and clean their paws. A quick wipe down with a moist towel should do the trick!

Plan 1-2 weeks in advance for gathering props and testing outfits on your pet. If ordering custom accessories online, allow 2-3 weeks for delivery. This timeline also gives you the opportunity to do practice runs with costumes and props. Planning ahead reduces stress on both you and your pet on shoot day.

Focus on comfortable, stationary poses that don't require jumping or complex positioning. Keep photo sessions short (15-20 minutes maximum) and take frequent breaks to avoid overtiring them. Use soft surfaces and avoid multiple costume changes that might cause discomfort.

Yes, but it requires careful planning and realistic expectations about animal behavior. Start by photographing each pet individually first to get backup shots, then attempt group photos with multiple helpers to manage each animal. Keep multi-pet sessions very short and use high-value treats to maintain everyone's attention. Consider opting for a multi-photo card as a backup plan if live group shots prove too challenging.

Introduce costumes gradually over several days before the actual photo shoot. Start by letting them sniff and investigate the outfit, then try brief wearing sessions with lots of treats and praise. Choose lightweight, non-restrictive pieces first and always prioritize your pet's comfort over the perfect look. If your pet shows stress, consider simple accessories like bows or bandanas instead of full outfits.

The golden hour provides the most flattering lighting — within the first hour after sunrise or the last hour before sunset. This typically means early morning (7-8 AM) or late afternoon (4-5 PM during winter months). Avoid harsh midday sunlight, which creates unflattering shadows and can make pets squint. Also consider your individual pet's energy patterns when scheduling, as a well-timed shoot works better than perfect lighting with a tired pet.

Pet photographers have specialized experience with animal behavior and come equipped with pet-specific tools like noise makers and treats. They're worth the investment if you want professional-quality results, have multiple pets, or have particularly challenging animals to photograph. Regular photographers can also produce great results at a lower cost, but ask about their comfort level and experience with animals before booking. Either way, choose someone patient and willing to work at your pet's pace.

Limit outfit changes to 2-3 maximum, as each change is stressful and time-consuming for pets. Plan your most important look first when your pet is freshest and most cooperative. Pet attention spans are limited, so fewer changes often lead to better photos overall. Consider changing props, backgrounds, or simple accessories like bows instead of full costume changes to add variety without the stress.