“Well,” she said, chuckling, “it could have gone either way.” That’s true, because Harper, 6, and Betty, 3, are family pets not working dogs. But McCarthy also ensured things went smoothly by having professional animal trainer Sarah Schwaiger on hand. Schwaiger has worked as a professional animal wrangler for commercials, film, TV and photo shoots since 2006. Her four-legged charges have appeared in such shows as The Goldbergs, Pretty Little Liars, Pen15 and Curb Your Enthusiasm. McCarthy and Schwaiger met 12 years ago on the set of McCarthy’s sitcom Mike & Molly, where Schwaiger’s own dog played “Jim.” In 2016, Schwaiger was on maternity leave when McCarthy called her about her new dogs. “She was looking for someone to spend some time with the pups, working on potty training and basic obedience, and I was available!” Schwaiger recalls. To this day when McCarthy’s family goes out of town, Harper and Betty stay at Schwaiger’s ranch. That personal relationship with McCarthy’s pups—as well as Schwaiger’s pro tips—came in handy for the photo shoot. “Harper and Betty are so sweet and great dogs, but they’re not trained studio dogs,” says Schwaiger. Even though you and your pup aren’t pros, and you probably won’t be shooting for a magazine cover, there are tricks Schwaiger used that can help anyone get better pictures of their dog.
Dog Training Tips from Melissa McCarthy’s Trainer
Enlist someone your dog knows and is comfortable with to be a dedicated “wrangler” for the shoot.
Whether you’re snapping the pictures or posing with your pooch, having someone else focus on your dog will help you get better images.
Let the dog roam around to get acquainted with the location.
While Melissa McCarthy was getting glammed up for the shoot, Schwaiger brought Harper and Betty into the studio one at a time to check out the new-to-them surroundings and people.
If strobes or a flash will be involved, test it to see how the dog reacts.
“Strobes are common in photo shoots for additional lighting purposes. They make a flash of light and a popping sound. This can be scary for dogs that haven’t heard or seen it before.” Testing it ahead of time helps the dog get accustomed to unfamiliar lights or sounds.
Planning to use any props?
Keep them simple, and try those out in advance too.
Have several setups in mind.
If one setup doesn’t quite gel, you can move on to another. Photographer Jeff Lipsky planned to have McCarthy and the dogs pose on an armchair, a sofa and down on the floor—simple options to ensure McCarthy and the dogs would be on the same level.
Designate a spot where pets can relax between shots.
Schwaiger set up a collapsible soft-sided kennel (like the Top Paw Indoor & Outdoor Portable Dog Crate, $120, petsmart.com) where Harper and Betty could take little breaks.
Bring lots of toys and treats to direct the dog’s attention where you want it to go.
“I came with my bag of ‘tricks’ usually reserved for puppy jobs,” says Schwaiger. “Lots of noise makers and things to draw their attention. I train only using positive reinforcement with food or toys.” It was a fun afternoon for everyone involved—including Harper and Betty. “They were so happy to be working with their mom and quickly became quite the experienced models,” says Schwaiger. “They had a great time!” Next, Melissa McCarthy on Finding the Funny in Everything, Going to the Dogs for Inspiration and Her New Netflix and HGTV Projects
