A Guide to Including Your Dog in Your Wedding Day!

Written By Kacy Ives

Including your dog in your wedding is a beautiful way to make it extra special and personal. Here are a few suggestions how to do it in a way that's both fun and manageable for your furry friend:

  • Role Selection: Decide which part your dog will play—ring bearer, flower pup, best dog, barkmaid or simply a VIP guest. Choose something that fits their personality and training level.

  • Comfort First: Make sure they feel secure with the crowd and noises. If they get anxious easily, a quieter role or a short appearance might be best.

  • Stylish Yet Practical: Outfit them with an adorable bowtie, floral collar/leash, or a custom vest—but ensure it's comfortable and doesn’t restrict movement.

  • Practice & Rewards: Rehearse their role beforehand if possible, and have treats ready to reinforce good behavior.

  • Photo Perfection: Inform your photographer ahead of time so they can capture special moments with your furry companion.

  • Wrangler on Standby: Have a wrangler, aka pet attendant, assigned to keep an eye on them, handle bathroom breaks, and ensure they're safe throughout the event.

  • Exit Strategy: If your wedding is long, have a plan for where they’ll go afterward—whether it's back home, to a hotel or to a pet-friendly lounge area.

If your dog can’t be part of the big day, don’t worry — there are still plenty of creative ways to include them. Let your pup inspire elements of your wedding, from stationery and décor to favors and desserts. Consider featuring a custom illustration of your dog on your invitations, escort cards, or cocktail napkins. Instead of the classic newlywed cake topper, you could even have a miniature version of your furry friend placed on your wedding cake. The possibilities for honoring your pet are endless.

For more advice on how to add your dog into your celebration, check out Brides’ 50 Too-Cute Ways to Include Your Pet in Your Wedding. Your pup will love being involved, and it’ll make for an unforgettable celebration. What role are you thinking they’ll play in the wedding?

Kacy Ives
Next

How Dust & Salt began.