In reading some of the threads that predate my joining this site, I get the impression that there is a focus on keeping dogs' mouths closed, and tongues in.

Is this a breeder / show ring thing, or does it go into pet portraits as well?

I find that an open mouth with a little tongue allows us a bit anthropomorphism and appears to be a smile

I'm not talking about major panting or tongue drooping a foot out of the mouth (though that can be comical too), but just something like Ebony here:



I made this at an adoption event with a D3 and a 70-200 f2.8. We were in semi shade under the overhang of a store on the sidewalk outside. All natural light.