How to Include Your Dog on Your Wedding Day

For those of you who consider your furry friend part of the family, it’s only natural to want them by your side on one of the most important days of your life! Whether you’re including a dog, a cat, or even a more unconventional pet, there are so many ways to make them part of the celebration while also ensuring you get the perfect wedding photos with them. After photographing over 150 weddings, I’ve compiled my top tips to seamlessly include your pet on your wedding day!

Before Anything Else – Check With Your Venue

Before getting too excited about including your pet in your big day, the first step is to confirm that your venue allows animals on the premises. Some venues have strict policies, while others may welcome pets with certain guidelines. Once you get the green light, it’s time to plan their special role!

1. Let Your Dog Greet A Few People First

Imagine walking into a room full of people you don’t know, with all eyes on you—it can be overwhelming! The same applies to your pup. Letting them greet guests and become familiar with the environment will help them feel more comfortable. If your dog doesn’t get a chance to acclimate, they may be too distracted during photos, making it harder to get those perfect shots.

2. Bring Their Favorite Toy or Treat

To keep your dog engaged (and looking at the camera!), bring their favorite toy or treat. A squeaky toy, a special snack, or even something as simple as a pinecone can work wonders. Anything that grabs their attention will help create adorable, focused portraits of you and your four-legged friend.

3. Train Them for a Calm Greeting

If your pup gets excited easily, it’s important to start training early. Work on commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “no jumping” to avoid muddy paws on your wedding dress. A well-behaved dog will make for a much smoother, stress-free experience on the big day.

4. Hire a Professional Pet Handler

You’ll be busy soaking in every moment of your wedding day, so having a trusted pet handler ensures your dog is well cared for without adding stress to you or your family. Here are a few reputable companies that specialize in wedding pet care:

• I Dog Too
• Wags & Weddings
• Jackie & Joe’s Pet Care

A professional will help manage your pet’s needs, from walks to water breaks, allowing you to focus on celebrating.

5. Make Them a Ring Bearer—But Keep the Rings Safe!

Having your dog walk down the aisle as the honorary ring bearer is beyond adorable, but let’s keep those rings in safe hands! Instead of attaching the rings to their collar, have your best man or maid of honor hold onto them. We wouldn’t want any runaway rings mid-ceremony!

6. Get Them Used to Wearing Wedding Accessories

If your dog will be wearing a bowtie, floral wreath, or any kind of special outfit, start introducing it months in advance. This helps ensure they’re comfortable and won’t spend the entire time trying to wiggle out of it. The last thing you want is a fussy pup refusing to wear their outfit on the big day!

7. Plan for Their Comfort After the Ceremony

Weddings can be overstimulating for pets. Once they’ve had their moment in the spotlight, arrange for someone to take them home or to a quiet space where they can relax. A tired dog is a happy dog, and this will allow you to fully enjoy your reception without worrying about their well-being.

8. Incorporate Your Dog Into Your Wedding Decor

Even if your pet can’t physically be at your wedding, you can still honor them in fun and creative ways:

• Signature Cocktails – Name a drink after them!
• Custom Napkins – Feature their cute face on cocktail napkins.
• Cake Decor – Add a small figurine or a design element inspired by them.

Including your pet in your wedding day is such a special way to make your celebration feel even more personal. Whether they’re walking down the aisle, posing for photos, or simply being honored in your decor, these tips will help ensure a seamless experience for both you and your furry best friend. And if you’re looking for a wedding photographer who understands the magic of capturing these moments, I’d love to help!