When audiences watch a perfectly timed tail wag, a daring dog leap, or a cat calmly walking through chaos on screen, they rarely stop to consider how that moment was captured. In many cases, the star animal they’re seeing isn’t alone; they’re supported by a lookalike double working behind the scenes to help create the magic. At The Animal Talent, we know first-hand just how vital animal doubles are to the success (and welfare) of any production.
What Are Animal Doubles?
An animal double is a second (or third!) back up animal that closely resembles the principal animal actor in appearance, size, colour, and behaviour. Much like human stunt doubles or stand-ins, animal doubles perform specific tasks that might be too demanding, repetitive, or risky for the lead animal. They also serve as backups to ensure continuity and reduce filming delays.
Doubles are especially useful in long shoots where rest breaks are essential, or when a scene requires multiple takes of complex behaviour. Sometimes doubles or back ups are hired by production teams when studio costs are particularly large and the risk of the first animal being unable to achieve the action is quite high. If a back up is booked in this scenario, it’s usually to allow the production team two throws of the die, without eating into extra studio time hours or even days.
Why Are Animal Doubles Important?
1. Welfare First
At The Animal Talent, animal welfare is our top priority. Even the most experienced animal performers have limits. Doubling allows us to rotate animals in and out of scenes, avoiding fatigue, stress, or overwork. This is particularly important for younger or senior animals, or for breeds that are prone to overheating or anxiety.
2. Efficiency on Set
Time is money on set. When an animal needs a break or isn’t cooperating (because, let’s be honest, even the best-trained animals have their moments), having a double ready to step in keeps the production moving. Directors appreciate the ability to get the shot without compromising on quality or causing unnecessary delays.
3. Continuity
Sometimes, it’s simply about appearances. If a dog needs to be muddy in one scene and clean in the next, switching between the principal and the double makes the transitions easier and more believable. Continuity is critical in TV and film, and animal doubles are a subtle but effective way to maintain it.
4. Stunt Work and Specialised Skills
Not all animals are trained for every task. One dog may be great at sitting still for close-ups, while another may be a pro at running, jumping, or reacting to loud noises. By using doubles with complementary skills, productions can safely and efficiently achieve the full range of required actions for the scene or the production as a whole.
How We Select the Perfect Double
At The Animal Talent, we keep a detailed database of our animals, including photos, measurements, personality notes, and training abilities. When a production books a lead animal, we’ll often suggest potential doubles from our roster that match in appearance and temperament. These doubles are introduced and socialised with the lead animal so they’re comfortable swapping roles when needed and where appropriate.
Our animal handlers work closely with directors and production teams to choreograph scenes and transitions. This behind-the-scenes work ensures everything appears seamless to the viewer.
Real-World Examples
While we can’t always name names, we’ve worked on campaigns where a lead cat had a twin double who stepped in for product shots involving noise or water. We’ve also provided two identical Borzois for a TV drama, rotating them on set to keep energy levels high and tails wagging naturally.
These doubles weren’t just stand-ins; they are essential to the final product and they performed their roles like true professionals.
Booking Animal Doubles in Advance
Planning a shoot? If your project features animals in multiple scenes, or if you anticipate long filming days, we strongly recommend booking a suitable double alongside your lead animal. Not only does this support animal welfare, but it also gives your production added flexibility and peace of mind.
Let us help you match the perfect pair or trio from our trusted and experienced talent pool.
The Animal Talent Ltd is proud to offer the UK’s finest trained animal performers and doubles for advertising, TV, film, and photography. If you’re ready to cast an animal star (and their trusty double), get in touch with us today.
