
Annabel Sarah
Dog Trick Instructor & Actress

Annabel Sarah
Drama Coach for Feet and Paws
Working with dogs on film sets has always been a dream job for me, as has acting. But at that time, it seemed almost impossible to become a film animal trainer. When I was very young, I researched film animal schools and remember finding one in L.A. However, as a 16-year-old, it felt a bit scary to go to the US.
Drama schools, on the other hand, were much more accessible, and I found the right one for me. I decided that I wanted to be in front of the camera myself. I had my first professional theatre experiences with my local theatre group in Germany at the age of 16, and later graduated from a professional drama school in 2016.
With my own early film projects, I worked with my cat in front of the camera and also gained experience on set with a horse.
I have gained a wide range of experience on set. I have produced, cast, and organised locations for films and TV series. I have also written scripts for productions when needed and worked as a set artist on various projects.
As an actress, I mostly played sad, emotional roles and developed strong experience in method acting, allowing me to connect deeply with characters and bring authenticity to my performances. However, my teachers at drama school discovered the comedienne in me, and I have since performed several comedy roles — which I much prefer, as I love making audiences laugh far more than making them sad.
I have also worked in schools in Germany as a drama coach, helping students develop their characters and build a strong stage presence.
Working with animals on set was always a dream that quietly stayed with me. When I moved to London, I felt that I might one day get closer to that dream. And so it happened — I found a wonderful trainer who trained me to become a Dog Trick Instructor. Step by step, I earned various certificates with my German Kleinspitz and took part in photoshoots and advertising shoots with her. I was also booked as a dog handler on set and had the opportunity to work with dogs belonging to other owners.
I am convinced that having a dog on screen always brings a smile to the audience’s face — that’s for sure! No matter how funny the actor is, the dog is often the real star.
I am very happy that I was able to realise this dream in London. Alongside my main job, I now work as a dog handler and dog trick instructor. I currently offer my services on weekends, during half-term holidays, or upon request.
If you would like to learn more about "Paws on Set", follow the paw prints.
If you would like to learn more about my past projects as an actress and filmmaker, you can find past projects here:
Showreels


