Do you dream of including your dog in your wedding day but are unsure how to make it work?
Check out our top tips for seamlessly including your beloved furry friend in your special day!
Dogs are often regarded as cherished members of the family. Their loyal companionship, unconditional love, and unique personalities make them much more than pets—they're trusted friends and confidants. It’s no surprise, then, that many owners seek to include their dogs in life's most significant moments, such as weddings.
Once you have found that dog-friendly wedding venue (see our Wedding Venues page for a list of dog-friendly venues by County), including dogs in special events is a way for owners to share the joy their furry friends bring with others.
Owners often go above and beyond, from dressing their dogs in special outfits to creating pet-friendly environments at venues.
It’s not just about their presence; it’s about celebrating the unique love and happiness they contribute to the family.
If you're planning to include your dog on your special day, be sure to check out our 5 top tips below. In the excitement leading up to your big day, it's easy to overlook something important for your beloved furry family member!
1. The Wedding Venue.
Some couples choose to bring their dog along when visiting their chosen wedding venue for the first time. At a dog-friendly venue, their furry companion is always warmly welcomed and often showered with affection. Who knows? A jar of dog treats might even make a surprise appearance!
2. Meeting The Wedding Photographer.
Picture the delight of capturing stunning family portraits with your beloved dog by your side! To make the experience seamless, why not plan an engagement shoot and bring your furry friend along? It’s a perfect opportunity for them to meet the photographer, get familiar with their presence, and adjust to the look and sound of a professional camera—quite different from your everyday phone!
You can even rehearse a few poses with your dog while the photographer learns what grabs their attention (hint: don’t forget those squeaky toys or their favourite ball). These little moments of preparation should help your dog feel at ease, setting the stage for some truly paw-fect photographs on your wedding day.
3. Looking After Your Dog.
While a quick cuddle with your dog is always tempting, your wedding day will be a whirlwind of activity, leaving little time to care for your furry friend.
To ensure your dog is well-looked after, consider asking a trusted relative who knows your dog well to take on the responsibility. If you feel this might be too much for them, hiring a professional wedding day chaperone or dog sitter could be the perfect solution.
These professionals are experienced in keeping pets calm and comfortable during big events and can help ensure your dog is in the right place at the right time for important moments, like photographs.
Additionally, plan ahead for where your dog will spend the rest of the day when they’re not by your side. Ensure they have a safe, comfortable environment, and never leave them in a car under any circumstances. Proper preparation will ensure a stress-free experience for both you and your dog.
4. Be Prepared.
As you’re busy packing for your wedding day, don’t forget to pack everything your dog will need too! Essentials such as:
- Food or treats.
- Food bowl.
- Water bowl.
- Poo bags.
- Favourite toys.
Also bring their dog bed as well, so they have a cosy spot to retreat to if the crowd, noise, or music becomes overwhelming.
More importantly, don’t forget the dog lead! Not only is it essential for walks around the venue where your dog can explore all the exciting sights and smells, but it also helps prevent any unexpected dirty paw prints on your wedding dress.
A little preparation will go a long way in ensuring your furry friend enjoys the day as much as you do!
5. Don't Be Disappointed.
Every wedding couple dreams of a flawless wedding day, but let’s face it—dogs don’t always share the same vision!
You may have seen adorable photos of perfectly posed pups at weddings or dogs snoozing peacefully while the party goes on around them. However, even with careful planning, things might not go exactly as expected when it comes to your furry friend, but that’s okay!
To avoid disappointment, try not to set your heart on them behaving perfectly. Instead, think about alternative ways to include them in your day if they can’t play the role you imagined.
Ideas such as:
- Custom Cake Topper
Add a miniature model of your dog to your wedding cake topper for a fun and personal touch.
- Photos and Decor
Incorporate photos of your dog into your decor. Use them on welcome signs, table numbers, or as part of a memory table.
- Signature Cocktails
Name a signature drink after your dog, complete with a menu card featuring their photo or illustration.
- Dog-Themed Favors
Send guests home with dog-themed wedding favours, such as cookies shaped like your dog or donations made in their name to an animal charity.
- Incorporate Their Name
Use your dog’s name for table names, a hashtag, or even in your vows.
- Keepsake Jewelry
Wear a charm or cufflinks engraved with your dog’s name or paw print as a subtle tribute.
- Video Message
Record a video of your dog at home and play it during the reception for a light-hearted and touching moment.
- Special Mention in Speeches
Include a mention of your dog in your vows or during the speeches to acknowledge their special place in your family.
- Personalised Stationery
Feature your dog in your invitations, save-the-date cards, or programs with custom illustrations or photos.
- Dog-Inspired Accessories
Incorporate a small symbol of your dog into your attire, such as a custom pocket square, embroidered handkerchief, or dog-print socks.
These ideas allow your dog to be a meaningful part of your day, even if they're not physically there to celebrate with you.