The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and creating cherished memories with loved ones—including our furry family members! 

If you’ve ever dreamed of having your dog pose with Santa for a festive photo, you’re in luck. 

Across Australia, from bustling Sydney and Melbourne to other cities like Canberra, Brisbane, and beyond, there are plenty of opportunities to snap that perfect Christmas keepsake. 

Much like the classic family or kids’ Santa photos, pet-friendly options are popping up everywhere, offering a mix of convenience, fun, and adorable results. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the options available in Sydney and Melbourne, dive into additional possibilities like pop-ups, pet shops, and photography studios, and sprinkle in some details for other Australian cities. 

Plus, we’ll give you a heads-up on approximate costs so you can plan ahead.

Why a Santa Photo with Your Dog?

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about seeing your pup decked out in a festive bandana or snuggled up next to Santa. 

These photos aren’t just cute—they’re a way to include your dog in the holiday traditions that make Christmas special. 

Whether you’re looking for a professional portrait to frame, a quirky social media post, or a gift for a fellow pet lover, a Santa pet photo session ticks all the boxes. 

Plus, many of these events support local charities, so you can feel good about spreading the festive cheer.  Pet photos with Santa will probably never win any pet photography contests but that’s not what they are about – these are pure fun and enjoyment!

Santa Pet Photos in Sydney

Sydney pet parents are spoiled for choice when it comes to Santa photo ops. Here’s a rundown of what’s available:

Westfield Shopping Centres

Westfield locations across Sydney, such as Westfield Bondi Junction, Parramatta, and Chatswood, often host pet-friendly Santa photo sessions. These are typically scheduled on specific “Paws with Claus” days to keep things calm and controlled—away from the chaos of kids’ photo queues.

• What to Expect: A quick 5–10-minute session with a professional photographer, a festive backdrop, and a patient Santa who’s used to wagging tails.
• Cost: Around $25–$35 for a digital download or basic print, with package upgrades (e.g., multiple shots or gift items) ranging from $40–$60.
• Booking: Essential! Check the Westfield website closer to December for dates and times.

Pet Shops and Vet Clinics

Big names like Petstock, Petbarn and Greencross Vets often partner with local photographers or charities for Santa photo events. Look out for sessions at Petbarn stores in Alexandria, Balgowlah, or Caringbah.

• What to Expect: A laid-back vibe with treats or toys to keep your pup happy. Some locations donate proceeds to animal rescues like the RSPCA.
• Cost: Typically $15–$25, with prints or digital files included.
• Tip: Call your local store in November to confirm dates.

Pop-Up Events

Keep an eye on social media (especially Instagram and Facebook) for pop-up pet photo events in parks or community spaces like Centennial Parklands or the Inner West. These are often run by independent pet photographers from Sydney or other small businesses.

• What to Expect: A festive mini-set with Santa (sometimes a volunteer in a costume!), plus props like reindeer antlers or Christmas hats for your dog.
• Cost: $20–$40 depending on the setup and deliverables.

Photography Studios

For a polished, professional experience, studios like Posh Pets Photography in Sydney offer bespoke Santa sessions. These are ideal if you want a high-quality image with custom editing.

• What to Expect: A longer session (20–30 minutes), tailored poses, and a variety of festive backgrounds.
• Cost: Starts at $100–$150, including a few edited digital images, with prints extra.

Santa Pet Photos in Melbourne

Melbourne’s pet-loving community ensures there’s no shortage of Santa photo opportunities for dogs. Here’s the scoop:

Westfield Shopping Centres

Westfield Southland, Chadstone, and Doncaster often roll out pet-friendly Santa sessions. Known as “Pet Pics with Santa,” these events are hugely popular, so booking early is a must.

• What to Expect: A cheerful Santa, a festive set, and a quick photo shoot designed with pets in mind.
• Cost: $25–$40 for a basic package; extras like frames or digital bundles can push it to $50–$70.
• Pro Tip: Bring your dog’s favourite toy to keep them relaxed amid the shopping centre buzz.

Pet Shops and Animal Welfare Events

Petstock stores in Richmond, Prahran, or Bayswater often host Santa photo days, sometimes in collaboration with groups like the Lost Dogs’ Home. These events are casual and community-focused.

• What to Expect: A simple setup with Santa, often outdoors, and a focus on fun rather than perfection.
• Cost: $10–$20, with donations encouraged for charity partners.

Pop-Ups and Markets

Melbourne’s vibrant pop-up scene means you might stumble across Santa pet photos at places like the Queen Victoria Market’s holiday events or dog-friendly parks like Yarra Bend. Follow local pet influencers on Instagram and Facebook for updates.

• What to Expect: A quirky, relaxed experience with Santa and festive props—think elf ears or a tiny Santa hat for your pup.
• Cost: $15–$30, often cash-only, so come prepared.

Photography Studios

Studios like Petography in Collingwood specialise in pet portraits and often offer Santa-themed sessions in December. These are perfect for a standout holiday card.

• What to Expect: A private session with professional lighting, multiple poses, and editing options.
• Cost: $120–$200, including a set of digital images or prints.

Beyond Sydney and Melbourne: Other Australian Cities

While Sydney and Melbourne lead the popularity in Santa photos, other cities across Australia are jumping on the pet-Santa bandwagon. Here’s what’s out there based on trends and recurring events:

Canberra

• Westfield Belconnen: Known for pet photo days with Santa, usually mid-December. Cost: $20–$35.
• Pop-Ups: Check the Canberra Dog Lovers Facebook group for local photographer events in parks like Lake Burley Griffin. Cost: $15–$30.

Brisbane

• Westfield Chermside: Offers “Paws and Claus” sessions for the Brisbane area. Cost: $25–$40.
• Petbarn Stores: Locations like Underwood host charity-driven Santa shoots. Cost: $15–$25.

Adelaide

• RSPCA SA Events: Often held at their Stepney headquarters with Santa photo ops for the Adelaide pooches. Cost: $10–$20, with proceeds supporting rescues.
• Photography Studios: Places like Pawtography SA offer bespoke sessions. Cost: $100–$150.

Perth

• Westfield Carousel: Pet-friendly Santa photos are a hit here. Cost: $25–$40.
• Pop-Ups: Look for events at Kings Park or Fremantle markets. Cost: $20–$35.

Cairns, Darwin, and Regional Areas

Options are slimmer in smaller cities, but pet shops like Petbarn Cairns or community Christmas fairs sometimes surprise with Santa photo days. Costs typically range from $10–$25. Search social media for local announcements closer to the season.

Tips for a Pawesome Photo Session

1. Prep Your Pup: A quick groom and a festive accessory (like a bow tie or jingle-bell collar) can elevate the shot.
2. Timing is Key: Book early for popular spots like Westfield, and opt for morning sessions when your dog is fresh.
3. Bring Treats: A handful of goodies can coax a smile—or at least a head tilt—for the camera.
4. Check the Fine Print: Some venues require dogs to be leashed or vaccinated, so confirm beforehand.

Final Thoughts

Getting your dog photographed with Santa is more than just a photo op—it’s a chance to make memories, support local businesses or charities, and add a dash of holiday magic to your pet’s year. Whether you’re hitting up a Westfield in Sydney, a pet shop in Melbourne, or a pop-up in Perth, there’s an option to suit every budget and vibe. Costs generally range from $10 for a quick charity snap to $200 for a studio masterpiece, so you can pick what works for you. Keep an eye on local listings as December 2025 approaches, and get ready to capture your dog’s festive spirit—Santa hat and all!

Happy snapping, and may your holidays be filled with wagging tails and merry moments!