What if I told you that you can include your furry friend in your special day? That’s right, dogs can be the perfect wedding paw-tners! Including your beloved pet in your wedding not only adds a unique touch but also creates unforgettable moments.

From walking down the aisle to posing for adorable photos, there are countless ways to involve your four-legged friend in the celebration of your love.

In this article, I’ll guide you on how to include dogs in your wedding day seamlessly. I’ll provide tips on choosing a dog-friendly venue, finding the perfect outfit for your pup, and even some training advice to ensure everything runs smoothly. Whether your dog serves as the ring bearer or simply joins you for a few pictures, their presence will bring joy and laughter to your special day.

Don’t let your furry friend miss out on the most important day of your life. Find out how to incorporate dogs into your wedding and make it a day to remember for everyone, including your beloved pet.

Why Include Dogs in Your Wedding?

Dogs are man’s best friend, and no doubt they’re an integral part of your family. Including your furry companion in your wedding day can be a meaningful way to celebrate your love and commitment, not just to your partner but to your beloved pet as well. Dogs have a unique ability to bring joy, laughter, and a sense of playfulness to any occasion, and a wedding is no exception.

By incorporating your dog into your wedding, you acknowledge the important role they play in your life and create a shared experience that will be cherished for years to come. Whether your dog serves as the ring bearer, walks down the aisle with you, or simply joins in for a few photos, their presence will add a touch of personality and charm to your special day.

Dogs have a remarkable ability to sense and respond to human emotions, and their presence can help to calm any pre-wedding jitters or anxieties that the couple may be experiencing. This can be especially beneficial for the bride and groom, who may be feeling overwhelmed by the excitement and demands of the day.

In addition, the presence of a beloved pet can help to create a more relaxed and informal atmosphere, which can be particularly appealing for couples who are looking to infuse their wedding with a more casual and light-hearted vibe. The playful antics and affectionate behaviour of a dog can help to break the ice and encourage guests to let their guard down and enjoy the celebration. This will be reflected in your photos that will tell the complete story of your whole family.

Considerations for Including Dogs in Your Wedding

While including your dog in your wedding can be a delightful and meaningful addition, it’s important to carefully consider the logistics and potential challenges that may arise. One of the primary considerations is the temperament and behaviour of your dog.

It’s essential to ensure that your dog is well-trained, calm, and comfortable in large social settings. Dogs that are prone to excessive barking, jumping, or aggressive behaviour may not be well-suited for the demands of a wedding day. It’s important to work with a professional trainer or behaviourist to help prepare your dog for the event and ensure that they can participate in a safe and controlled manner. I have a few suggestions from professional handlers below that will prove useful for you.

Another important factor to consider is the venue and location of your wedding. Not all venues are dog-friendly, and it’s important to choose a location that accommodates your furry friend. This may involve ensuring that there is a designated area for your dog to rest and relax, as well as access to water and other necessities. See my list below of a few dog-friendly venues in the west midlands.

Dog-Friendly West Midlands Wedding Venues

When it comes to including your dog in your wedding, one of the most important considerations is choosing a dog-friendly venue or location. Not all wedding venues are equipped to accommodate pets, and it’s important to do your research to find a location that is welcoming and accommodating to your furry friend.

eg Ettington Park have been awarded the ‘Best Dog-Friendly Hotel’ at the prestigious @condenastjohansens Award for Excellence 2024.
This honour reflects their unwavering commitment to creating a welcoming and delightful environment for four-legged guests and their owners.

One option to consider is an outdoor wedding venue, such as a park, garden, or private estate. These types of venues often have more flexibility when it comes to accommodating dogs and may even have designated areas or amenities specifically for pets. Additionally, outdoor venues can provide a more relaxed and natural setting that may be more comfortable for your dog.

Another option is to consider a pet-friendly hotel or resort. Many hotels and resorts now offer special packages or accommodations for couples who want to include their pets in their wedding celebrations. These venues may provide amenities such as dog-walking areas, pet-sitting services, and even on-site veterinary care to ensure the comfort and safety of your furry friend.

If you’re planning an indoor wedding, it’s important to work closely with your venue to ensure that they can accommodate your dog. Some venues may have restrictions on the number of pets allowed or may require that your dog be kept in a designated area during the event. It’s important to communicate your needs and work with the venue to find a solution that works for both you and your pet.

Roles Your Dog Can Play on Your Wedding Day

Incorporating your dog into your wedding ceremony can be a truly special and memorable experience, but it’s important to plan ahead to ensure that everything runs smoothly. One of the first things to consider is the role your dog will play in the ceremony.

Ring Bearer

One option is to have your dog serve as a ring bearer, carrying the wedding rings down the aisle. This can be a truly adorable and heartwarming addition to the ceremony, but it’s important to ensure that your dog is comfortable with the task and that the rings are securely attached to their collar or a special harness.

Flower Pup

If you’re planning for your dog to walk down the aisle, it’s important to work with a professional trainer to ensure that they are comfortable and well-behaved during the procession. This may involve teaching your dog to walk on a leash, sit and stay, and even carry a small item, such as a flower or a ring.

The Official Wedding Greeter

If you’re worried about your dog’s behaviour during the ceremony, you may want to consider having a designated handler or caretaker who can take care of your pet during the event. This person can ensure that your dog is comfortable and well-cared for, and can even provide them with treats or toys to keep them occupied during the ceremony.

Dog Handlers: Ensuring Your Pup Has a Great Day Too

When it comes to including your dog in your wedding day, it’s important to consider the logistics and potential challenges that may arise. One way to ensure that everything runs smoothly is to hire a professional dog handler or trainer to assist with your furry friend’s participation along with the logistics of transporting your dog to and from the wedding, as well as any special accommodation they may require.

As professional dog chaperones, Paws2Party are in the “paw”fect position to provide helpful advice. Here’s what they have to say:

““Venues are always happy when they know a dog chaperone will be attending with the couple’s dog. This ensures the dog receives one-on-one care from someone not involved in the wedding, and no mess is left behind.

Having a chaperone eliminates stress for both the couple and the dog, as your furry friend will be cared for by our professional handlers. This means no family member will miss any part of the wedding. If the dog doesn’t want to be part of the ceremony or becomes stressed, the handler will take them away until they’re comfortable.

Should it rain, the handler/chaperone will brave the weather to take the dog outside for bathroom breaks.

The dog will remain with one person and won’t be passed around to family and friends.

A professional chaperone will be fully insured and willing to meet before the wedding to go over details and get acquainted with the dog.

Paws2Party handlers have extensive experience working with various breeds and can spot signs of anxiety, stress, or nervousness, ensuring the dog is handled appropriately.

If a dog is particularly nervous, a wedding may not be the best environment, but we do offer training beforehand to see if it might be possible.”

A dog handler or trainer can provide a range of services to help make your dog’s involvement in the wedding a success. They can help to train your dog to walk down the aisle, carry the rings, or pose for photos, ensuring that they are well-behaved and comfortable throughout the event.

In addition, a dog handler can also be responsible for the care and supervision of your pet during the wedding. This can include providing them with food, water, and breaks, as well as managing their interactions with guests and ensuring their safety. This can be especially important if your dog is not used to being in a large, crowded environment.

When selecting a dog handler or trainer, it’s important to look for someone with experience working with pets in wedding settings. They should be able to provide references and demonstrate a track record of success in helping couples include their furry friends in their special day. Additionally, it’s a good idea to schedule a consultation with the handler prior to the wedding to ensure that they are a good fit for your needs and your dog’s personality.

Ideas for Including Dogs in Your Wedding Photos

One of the most popular ways to include your dog in your wedding day is through photography. Dogs have a natural ability to add a sense of playfulness and charm to any photo, and incorporating them into your wedding portraits can create truly unique and memorable images.

One idea is to have your dog serve as a prop in your wedding photos, either by posing with you and your partner or by being the subject of a solo shot. You can dress your dog up in a special outfit or accessory, such as a bowtie or a flower crown, to complement your own wedding attire.

This couple did a pool jump in the evening, and of course included their dog!

Another option is to incorporate your dog into a group shot, either with your wedding party or with your immediate family. This can be a great way to capture the special bond between you, your partner, and your furry friend. You can even have your dog serve as the “best man” or “maid of honour” in these group photos.

If you’re worried about your dog’s behaviour during the photo shoot, it’s a good idea to work with a professional photographer who has experience working with pets, such as Clive Blair Photography. I can provide guidance on how to best capture your dog’s personality and energy, and can even offer tips on how to keep your pet calm and focused during the session. A squeaky toy works wonders!

Dog-Friendly Wedding Attire and Accessories

When it comes to including your dog in your wedding day, it’s important to consider their comfort and style as well. Dressing up your furry friend in a special outfit or accessory can be a fun and whimsical way to incorporate them into the festivities.

One popular option is to dress your dog in a custom-made tuxedo or suit, which can be a great way to coordinate their look with your own wedding attire. You can even find special collars or leashes that match the colour scheme or theme of your wedding.

Another idea is to adorn your dog with a floral crown or wreath, which can add a touch of elegance and whimsy to their appearance. You can also consider dressing your dog in a special collar or harness that features a bow or other decorative element.

If you’re concerned about your dog’s comfort or safety, it’s important to choose attire and accessories that are comfortable and easy for them to move in. Avoid anything that may be too tight, restrictive, or uncomfortable, and make sure to test out any new outfits or accessories before the big day.

Wedding Favours and Treats for Dogs

When it comes to including your dog in your wedding day, it’s important to consider not just their participation in the ceremony and photos, but also their comfort and enjoyment throughout the event. One way to do this is by providing wedding favours and treats specifically for your furry friend.

For example, you could create custom-made dog treats or biscuits that feature your wedding logo or colours. These can be packaged in small bags or boxes and given out to guests as a unique and thoughtful favour. You could even include a small note or tag that explains the significance of the treat and the role your dog played in your special day.

Another idea is to provide a water station or bowls for your dog to use throughout the event. This can help to ensure that they stay hydrated and comfortable, especially if the wedding is taking place in a warm or outdoor setting. You could even decorate the water station with a special sign or ribbon to make it a fun and festive addition to the event.

If you’re planning to have your dog participate in the ceremony or photos, you could also consider providing them with a special toy or chew treat to keep them occupied and calm during those moments. This can help to prevent any unwanted behaviours or distractions and ensure that your dog remains relaxed and happy throughout the event.

The Final Bow-wow: Wrapping Up Your Wedding Day with Your Dog

As the evening winds down, there’s nothing quite like sharing those final moments with your dog by your side. Whether they’re curled up under your table during dinner, stealing the spotlight on the dance floor, or snuggling close as the stars come out, your pup’s presence adds an extra layer of love and warmth to the day.

Some of my favourite candid shots come from these quieter, more intimate moments—when the celebrations are slowing, and it’s just you, your partner, and your loyal companion soaking in the magic of the day. The joy in their eyes, the wagging tails, and the feeling of calm they bring—it all makes for unforgettable memories.

As you say your final goodbyes to guests and your wedding day draws to a close, having your dog there reminds you of the simple, unconditional love that made the day so special. It’s a sweet way to end one of the best days of your life, knowing your fur baby was a part of every moment—from the excitement of walking down the aisle to the peace of winding down the night.

So, as you plan your perfect day, don’t forget to include your dog in those special closing moments. After all, your wedding wouldn’t be complete without your furry best friend wagging their tail by your side as you step into your happily ever after.

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