Your wedding day is about celebrating love with your nearest and dearest. And for most pet parents, that inner circle has a furry, four-legged member. It’s no longer a quirky trend; it’s a heartfelt priority for couples to include their dogs in their ceremonies.
But how do you go from a beautiful idea to a flawless execution? From a joyful ring bearer to a potential chaos agent, the difference lies in careful planning. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your dog a cherished part of your wedding day.
Why Include Your Dog?
Before we dive into the "how," let's remember the "why." A recent survey by the Dogs Trust found that nearly 90% of people consider their dog their best friend and a source of emotional support. Including them isn’t just a photo op; it’s a genuine reflection of your family.
“Having our sheepadoodle, Newton, there was never debated,” says Brad, a recent groom. “He brought so much joy being there. It felt so nice to go over to him and give him a cuddle.”
Choosing the Perfect Role for Your Pup
Not every dog is cut out for every job. The key is to assign a role that matches your dog’s temperament.
The Ring Bearer
A classic choice. If your dog is well-trained and can walk down the aisle calmly (or with a handler), this is an iconic role.
Pro Tip: Use fake rings attached to their collar!
The Flower Girl
A dog can easily carry a basket of petals in their mouth or have a floral wreath attached to their harness. Best for calm, gentle dogs.
The Best Dog / Dog of Honor
A title for the dog who simply needs to be present, looking handsome in a custom tuxedo or floral collar.
The Official Greeter
A fantastic role for social butterflies. Your dog can welcome guests as they arrive at the ceremony, often with a handler.
The Aisle Escort
For the ultimate emotional moment, have your dog walk you down the aisle. This was a necessity for Angharad, whose guide dog, Tudor, was her natural choice. “He was really excited because his favourite people were in the room,” she shared.
Hiring a Dog Chaperone
You’ll be busy. Your wedding party will be busy. Your family will be busy. Who will be responsible for your dog?
This is where professional dog chaperone services like Precious Pets Weddings and Paws2Party come in. These experts are revolutionizing pet-inclusive weddings.
“We do a consultation call to find out all about the dog, then an in-person meeting to understand the dog's temperament,” explains Emma of Precious Pets Weddings. “You have to find out all the temperaments, the couple's ideas, how well this would match and then put your plan together.”
On the day, they handle everything:
- Transporting the dog to the venue
- Pre-ceremony walk and bathroom break
- A mini-groom and outfitting (think tuxedos or flower collars!)
- Practicing their assigned role
- Supervising them throughout the event
- Ensuring they are safe, hydrated, and happy
As Jane from Paws2Party notes, “Every wedding is different, we're guided by the dog and their behaviour. The dog usually steals the show.”
Your Pre-Wedding Checklist
Whether you hire a pro or enlist a trusted friend, preparation is everything.
1. Choose a Dog-Friendly Venue
This is non-negotiable. “Finding a venue that was accessible for stairs and dogs was actually very difficult,” advises Angharad. Ask about policies during your initial tours.
2. Consider Your Dog’s Personality
Is your dog anxious around crowds? Do they bark at unfamiliar noises? Be realistic. Sometimes, having them just for the photos is the best, least stressful option for everyone.
3. Assign a Dedicated Handler
This cannot be you, your partner, or anyone in the immediate wedding party. This should be someone your dog knows and loves, whose sole job is dog-wrangling.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice
Get your dog used to their wedding outfit. Practice walking down an “aisle” at home. Familiarize them with any commands they’ll need to know.
5. Prepare a Doggy “Go-Bag”
Pack a bag with water, a bowl, their favorite treats, poop bags, a familiar toy or blanket, and any grooming supplies for touch-ups.
The Bottom Line
For couples like Bethan and Charlie, the decision was simple. “Having our dog Fergus at the wedding was the only thing we were absolutely certain about from the get-go... Anybody who has a dog knows they are literally like having a child.”
Including your dog in your wedding is a beautiful way to honor the unconditional love they bring to your life every single day. With thoughtful planning, you can ensure it’s a joyful and stress-free experience for your entire family—both two-legged and four-legged.
Did you include your dog in your wedding? Share your stories and tips in the comments below!
Comments
Post a Comment