You know what I love about schnauzer mix dogs? They’re adorable in different, unique ways, but they somehow have just as much attitude as purebred schnauzers! Haha! Have you ever met a schnauzer who didn’t think he/she was the boss? Of everything and everyone? I didn’t think so… and these schnauzer mix pups that I worked with recently are no exception!  :)

Grifo & Lady Roxy live with their moms – two cousins – in San Diego! Both ladies are originally from New York, and I think their dogs “inherited” a bit of that classic NYC swagger… they’re independent, headstrong, opinionated pups! Grifo is about 6 years old, Lady Roxy is about 2, and they’re both rescue mutts. They absolutely love to run around and explore, never straying too far from their moms… and while they’re not too big on “sit”, “stay” or many other commands, they certainly make up for it with their sweet demeanors! We didn’t have any shortage of affection during our photo session, that’s for sure – these dogs absolutely adore their little family!

This is Grifo! He can RUN! Mostly he just likes to hang out and relax – and bark at things – but I’m glad I got to see his need for speed!

And this is Lady Roxy… doesn’t she look like a proper little lady? She’s a total sweetheart and I think her name fits her beautifully.

At the end of our session, their moms were enjoying the sunset… but I think the dogs were more interested in my treat bag! Haha!

Patricia & Barbara, thank you for a really fun afternoon! I absolutely loved working with you & your dogs! Can’t wait to show you more photos soon! :)

Kaina the dog is a happy guy – easygoing, relaxed, and always content to be with his parents. You get the feeling he really knows how to enjoy the simple things in life, like a comfortable spot in the shade on a sunny day. And so we had a great time relaxing around his neighborhood during our Mission Hills pet photography session!

The name “Kaina” means “younger brother” in Hawaiian, but Kaina the dog actually shares his backyard with a few younger sisters – who happen to be chickens! That’s right, I got to spend time with two different species during our photo session, and I absolutely loved meeting Kaina’s feathered siblings, who live in a coop out in their family’s backyard area in Mission Hills. But it wasn’t long before Kaina stole the show; he completely won me over with his sweet smile and happy willingness to sit by my side and offer me a paw. I mean, this dog could not be any more adorable. He’s slowing down these days, since he’s not as young as he used to be, so he takes life one day at a time… and to be honest with you, he almost reminds me of an old man who contentedly sits on the porch all day, happy to be comfortable and near the people he loves. (An old man with the cutest little floppy ears, haha!)

Here’s Kaina in his backyard, with the chicken coop and his mom’s favorite kangaroo-paw flowers too!

We also visited Presidio Park, the honorary “backyard” of Mission Hills residents, and had a fun time exploring the scenery there too! We finished up our session at Coronado Beach, but I love how at-home Kaina looks amongst the lush greenery of the park.

Have I mentioned that Kaina loves spending time with his parents? I don’t think anything makes him happier.

Mary & Rob, thank you for such a fun afternoon! I’m so glad we were able to get together on a tight schedule! I’m excited to show you the rest of our photos soon. :)