The nation’s cutest bath time dog is revealed by bathroom specialists, Sanctuary Bathrooms, following a nationwide search and public vote.
Taking top place, as the official winner, is the adorable 13-week-old labradoodle, named Luna (pictured above), perching in the bath tub ‘ready for pampering’ according to her owner.
Whether they love splashing around in the water, or actively try to avoid it, bathing your dog can be an eventful experience. Sanctuary Bathrooms launched the search to find the nation’s cutest, funniest and cheekiest dogs in the bath, shower or basin, to highlight how bathrooms are a space for every family member – even man and woman’s best friend. After asking people in the UK to submit photos of their dogs, ten were shortlisted, and the general public was asked to vote for their favourite, cutest canines across social media.
Following Luna in second place is Maisie, the English springer spaniel, captured post-bath time with her cocker spaniel best friend, Jasper, after ‘an afternoon out on the farm’. During term time, Maisie is ‘a therapy dog for children with SEN’ according to her owner.
Coming in third is Benji the poochon, looking very sweet whilst having ‘his first bath’.
Other cute canines that made it into the top ten include Coco the cockapoo puppy, a French bulldog wearing a shower cap and Shelby the springer doodle.
James Roberts, Director of Sanctuary Bathrooms, said of the competition: “Bathrooms are a space for everyone including pets, and where many great memorable moments can take place. Seeing all these cute pooches enjoying bath time – even wearing shower caps – can brighten anyone’s day.
“We are delighted to see so much enthusiasm from our canine models and entrants making for many adorable and wonderful submissions. Ultimately, there could only be one to take the crown, with Luna the Labradoodle being a deserved winner, taking the title of the UK’s Cutest Bath time Pooch 2022!”
Alongside the crown, Luna wins a doggy pamper hamper full of bath time treats, whilst her owner receives a £500 gift voucher to spend at Sanctuary Bathrooms.
Meanwhile, Sanctuary Bathrooms has also teamed up with professional photographer, Grégory Herpe, to show people how they can take amazing bath time dog pictures, by sharing the tips and tricks he has developed over many years of animal photography.
Tips and tricks for taking dog pictures, according to a professional photographer:
1. Before you start, adjust your camera settings and tire your dog out a bit
Although you’ve chosen a perfect spot, it is important for your dog to discover the place.
On arrival, allow your dog to let off steam, run around a bit, do their business. They will be more receptive afterwards. Meanwhile, settle down and choose your camera perspectives. If your dog is very active and a tornado on legs, you will have to use high shutter speeds: between 1/800s and 1/1200s. For this, simply choose a speed priority mode. If, however, your dog is rather calm, and if they pose (sitting, lying down, not moving), a speed around 1/400s can be enough. I do not recommend using slower shutter speeds with dogs, as this may result in blurry pictures.
2. Pay attention to the light
Light in photography is really important. I recommend the use of natural sunlight, rather in the morning or at the end of the day; it is softer. Avoid flashes as much as possible as they will disturb the animal (and can alter the natural colours of its coat). Avoid light coming from the front or the back, instead, use light coming from one side.
3. Setting the right focus
First, try to focus on the eyes. The eyes are the reflection of the soul. This applies to human portraits, and it also applies to animal portraits. Dogs are very active, so use the autofocus mode. Even better, use the burst mode. Chances are you’ll get at least one good picture if your dog is constantly moving.
4. Level with the dog’s eyes
To give strength to your photos, I recommend lowering yourself to the dog’s eye level.
If it’s a Great Dane, you might be able to get down on your knees, if it’s a Chihuahua, you shouldn’t hesitate to get dirty and lie down on the ground. The point is to change your perspective in order to really enter their world. If you are trying to take a fun photo that shows how beautiful and happy your pet is, then get into their world and lay down.
Also, be extra careful with your framing: be sure not to cut off the dog’s ears or their paw or tail, for example. Rather, frame a slightly wider picture and be able to crop it later than the other way around.
5. Be aware of the background
As with all photos, the background is important to create beautiful photos. Taking simple pictures with simple compositions is sometimes the key to a successful photo. Best is to avoid “messy” backgrounds with branches in all directions, fences, flashy cars, etc. In general, you should also be aware of light spots that attract too much attention. Choose a decor that suits your dog and that corresponds to their personality.
6. Grabbing the dog’s attention
You have to get your dog’s attention to capture an interesting attitude or look. Use the treats they love, or their favourite toys. Make some fun noises. Personally, I make all kinds of noises, like barking softly. Dogs usually like it, but when you’re outside, you can’t go unnoticed. An animal who has no reason to pose, will not do it. And afterwards, it is essential to reward them for their efforts: treats, snacks or anything that will make them happy and make them smile. If they understand that they are rewarded with treats and petting when they pose well, they will listen to you even better. Stop the photo session as soon as you notice your dog is losing interest. Praise them again and reward them for participating so well so far. They will probably be eager for you to set up the next photo session.
