Including Your Dog in Your Wedding: A Complete Guide

Your dog isn’t just a pet—they’re family. So when planning your wedding, it’s only natural to want your four-legged companion to be part of your special day. With thoughtful planning and realistic expectations, you can create beautiful memories that include your beloved pup while ensuring everyone’s comfort and safety. 

Before You Decide: Is Your Dog Wedding-Ready? 

Not every dog is suited for wedding festivities, and that’s perfectly okay. Consider your dog’s temperament honestly before making plans. Dogs that are already anxious, hard to control, or uncomfortable around crowds will likely struggle even more on a busy wedding day. 

Ask yourself these key questions: 

• Does your dog know basic commands, such as sit, stay, and come?
• Are they calm around crowds and strangers?
• How do they react to loud music and unfamiliar environments?
• Can they handle being away from you for extended periods?

 

If your dog tends to be nervous or reactive, they might be better suited for a brief photo appearance rather than full ceremony participation. 

Considerations and Logistics 

Choose Dog-Friendly Locations 

Parks and outdoor venues are ideal for dog-inclusive weddings. These casual settings provide space for your dog to move around and access outdoor areas for bathroom breaks. Indoor venues can also work, but ensure there’s adequate space and access to the outdoors. 

Consider Your Guests 

Check with your guests about allergies or a fear of dogs. Your check should include everyone from grandparents to your photographer and caterer. Alert all attendees that your dog will be present so they can take necessary precautions or bring any required allergy medication. 

Creative Ways to Include Your Dog 

Ceremony Roles 

Ring Bearer: Train your dog to carry rings down the aisle by attaching a decorative pillow or small pouch to their collar. Secure the rings properly and keep backup rings on hand, just in case. 

Flower Dog: Dress your pup in a floral collar or harness and have them scatter petals or carry a small bouquet as they walk down the aisle. 
Processional Participant: Have your dog walk alongside the wedding party or escort you down the aisle. 
Honorary Attendant: If your dog is well-behaved, they can stand with your wedding party during the ceremony. 

Beyond the Ceremony 

Engagement Photos: Include your dog in engagement shoots for save-the-date cards and your wedding website.
Getting Ready Photos: Capture sweet moments with your dog while you’re getting ready—these often make for the most genuine, heartwarming images.
“First Look” with Your Dog: Create a special moment where your dog “meets” you in your wedding attire before the ceremony
Reception Entrance: Have your dog greet guests at the reception entrance, with proper supervision and control. 
First Dance Surprise: Some couples include their dog in their first dance as a fun, unexpected moment. 

Practical Planning Essentials 

Hire a Dog Handler

This step is crucial and often overlooked. Designate someone specifically responsible for your dog throughout the day—preferably a professional dog walker or pet sitter, rather than a guest with other responsibilities. Dog of Honor Event Specialists are a great local choice, they handle things such as: 

• Transportation to and from the venue
• Feeding and water breaks
• Bathroom breaks
• Managing your dog during downtime
• Removing your dog if they become overwhelmed

 

Prepare Your Dog

 
Training: Practice walking nicely on a leash and following basic commands. Include your dog in the rehearsal if possible. 
Grooming: Give your dog a bath, nail trim, and brush before the wedding to reduce dander and ensure they look their best. 
Outfit Practice: If you want your dog to wear special attire, practice beforehand. Take your canine for a walk around the neighborhood in their outfit to ensure they’re comfortable. 
Exercise: Have your handler take your dog for a walk before the ceremony to burn off excess energy. 

Pack Your Dog’s Essentials 

• Well-fitting leash or harness
• Fresh water and bowls
• Favorite treats and toys
• Waste bags
• Blanket or bed for rest breaks
• Any needed medications
• Emergency contact information for your veterinarian

 

Setting Realistic Expectations 

Remember that your dog doesn’t know it’s your wedding day. They might bark during vows, need a bathroom break at an inopportune moment, or decide to investigate the cake table. Lower your behavioral expectations and have contingency plans in place. 

Don’t expect your dog to perform tricks or stay perfectly still for photos. The goal is to share your special day with them, not to create a flawless performance. Some of the most memorable wedding moments come from unexpected pet antics that everyone laughs about later. 

Photography Tips 

Work with a photographer who loves dogs and has experience with pet-inclusive weddings. Communicate your dog’s personality and needs beforehand. Consider these photo opportunities: 

• Getting ready shots with your dog
• Family portraits that include your pet
• Candid moments during the ceremony
• Group shots with your wedding party and dog
• Formal portraits with just you, your partner, and your dog

 

Alternative Ways to Include Your Dog

 
If your dog can’t attend the wedding, there are still meaningful ways to include them: 

• Feature them in engagement photos
• Include their photo on wedding invitations or programs 
• Create a signature cocktail named after them 
• Design a cake topper with your dog’s likeness 
• Wear a pocket square with their photo 
• Display a life-size photo cutout at the reception 
• Have someone bring your dog just for photos, then take them home 

The Bottom Line 

Including your dog in your wedding can add joy, personality, and heart to your celebration. The key is honest assessment of your dog’s temperament, thorough planning, and realistic expectations. Whether your dog walks down the aisle or simply appears in a few photos, their presence will make your wedding day feel complete and authentically yours. 

Remember, the most important thing is that both you and your dog enjoy the experience. With proper preparation and the right support team, your furry family member can be part of your happily ever after in a way that works for everyone involved. 

We’d love to help you plan your wedding day, your way, at Rough & Ready Vineyards!

Have you been looking for outdoor wedding venues in Northern California that are affordable and flexible with packages, vendors, and bar requirements? Maybe you want a relaxed and easy weekend, so you can enjoy every memorable moment with everything in one location. Learn more by choosing an option below: