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 make it to the big day, don't fret. You can use your pet as inspiration for your wedding stationery, décor, favors, desserts, and more. Have an illustration of your pup drawn up for your invitations, escort cards or cocktail napkins. Maybe instead of the traditional newlywed wedding cake topper, you can have a replica of fido made to top your confectionery masterpiece. The pet wedding ideas are truly 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?

A Guide to Including Your Dog in Your Wedding Day!

How Dust & Salt began.