How to Include Your Dog in Your Wedding

For many of us, our dogs aren’t just pets—they’re part of the family. So, it’s no surprise that more couples include their four-legged friends in their wedding day celebrations. Whether your pup is your best friend, your ring bearer, or just a guest of honour, there are many creative ways to make them part of your special day. Here are some ideas and tips for including your beloved dog in your wedding!

The lovely Sioux, enjoying the attention.

MAKE THEM PART OF THE CEREMONY:

One of the most popular ways to involve your dog is to have them play a role in the ceremony.

They could be:

  • The Ring Bearer: Secure the rings in a pouch attached to their collar or on a small harness. (Make sure someone is ready to assist if they get distracted!)
  • The Flower Pup: Deck your dog in a floral collar or garland to match your bouquet.
  • Walking Down the Aisle: Your pup could accompany you or your partner down the aisle or walk with the wedding party.


DRESS THEM UP

Get your dog looking the part with some wedding attire! Think bow ties, bandanas, floral crowns, or a mini tuxedo. Keep their comfort in mind—opt for lightweight, non-restrictive options that allow them to move freely.


INCLUDE THEM IN YOUR PHOTOS

Dogs make everything better—especially wedding photos! Plan a moment with your pup during your couple’s portraits or family shots. These photos will be a great keepsake, showing your furry friend as part of your big day. Pro tip: Bring a friend or pet sitter to watch your dog during the rest of the event. They can help wrangle your dog for photos and take it home when the excitement winds down.

Crondon Park // Pet friendly wedding venue Essex

Houchins Wedding Venue // Portraits with the furry family member

PERSONALIZE THE DETAILS

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


  • Cake Toppers: Custom cake toppers featuring your dog.
  • Invitations or Stationery: Include an illustration or photo of your pup in the design.
  • Table Names or Signs: Name your tables after your dog’s favourite treats, parks, or toys.


PROVIDE PET-FRIENDLY COMFORT

Weddings can be overwhelming for dogs with all the new faces, sounds, and smells. Help them stay relaxed by creating a designated “dog zone” with:


  • A cosy bed or blanket.
  • Fresh water and treats.
  • A quiet space for breaks when the noise gets too much.


WORK WITH A PRO

If you want your dog to be a central part of the day but want to avoid worrying about logistics, consider hiring a pet chaperone or handler. They’ll ensure your dog is well-cared for and where it needs to be throughout the event. If your dog needs to learn specific behaviours for the wedding, consider involving a professional dog trainer to help prepare them.


THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

  • Venue Rules: Check your venue is pet-friendly before making plans.
  • Your Dog’s Personality: Only some dogs are cut out for a busy, loud event. Be honest about whether your pup will enjoy the experience or feel stressed.
  • Safety First: Keep your dog on a lead and ensure they’re always supervised.


Including your dog in your wedding is a beautiful way to celebrate your bond and make your day even more special. With some planning and creativity, your pet can have as much fun as you do—whether walking down the aisle or stealing the spotlight in your photos.