If you're a fan of heartwarming dog photography and looking to meet some amazing adoptable dogs, you're in for a treat! Recently, I had the privilege of doing a photoshoot with Taj, a lovable shepherd mix pup from Rocket Dog Rescue in Oakland. This sweet, gentle giant stole the show with his big smile, impressive tricks, and love for cheese — all of which made for an unforgettable photoshoot. If you’ve been searching for a new furry friend or just want to see some adorable dog photos, keep reading to learn why Taj is a true star ready for his forever home!
Ever wondered what it’s like to photograph a 75lb dog with a personality as big as his smile? Let me introduce you to Taj!
Taj isn’t just another handsome dog with a fantastic grin (though, believe me, that grin could melt even the coldest of hearts). He’s a star in the making! Whether he’s showing off his impeccable tricks or happily rolling over for belly rubs, Taj knows exactly how to charm a room — and trust me, he worked that room during our photoshoot.
I’ve been lucky enough to photograph so many amazing adoptable dogs for Rocket Dog Rescue, and Taj is no exception. His calm demeanor paired with an endless love of treats and learning made him the perfect subject. The whole time, he was like, “What? This? This is just another fun game involving cheese. Let’s go!”
It didn’t take long for Taj to show off his impressive skills. I had barely gotten my camera ready before he was sitting, staying, and even offering me a down like a true professional. Seriously, this guy is the fastest learner. If you have cheese (which, spoiler alert, he LOVES), Taj will perform tricks like he’s auditioning for America’s Got Talent.
One of the best parts of the day was when Taj showed off his ‘big smile.’ Now, I’ve seen a lot of happy dogs in my time, but Taj’s grin could make anyone’s day brighter. It's like he knows how to be adorable on command — which, let's be real, is a very useful trick to have when you're trying to get adopted.
Aside from all the cheese-filled tricks, Taj is also great with other dogs. He enjoys playdates with his Rocket Dog friends and is incredibly well-mannered. He’s the perfect companion for an active family who enjoys getting outside, whether it’s for a hike, a jog, or just a walk around the block. Taj will be right there, walking like a gentleman.
If you’re looking for a dog who will fill your life with joy, smiles, and the occasional belly rub session, Taj might just be the one. He’s a lovable goofball who thrives on positive reinforcement, and with a bit of training, he’s only going to get better and better.
So, if you’re ready to wake up to the best doggy smile every morning and make Taj a part of your family, don’t wait. You can find his profile and more info on how to adopt on the Rocket Dog website:
