How to Include Dogs at Your Wedding (+ Tips to Help Them Behave)

Tiffany Holmes Photography

​We’re dog lovers here at Four Oaks, so we love it when couples ask to incorporate their pets into their special day. Dogs are often already part of the family, so why not include them in your wedding? If you’re thinking about incorporating your dog into your wedding, here are a few ideas plus tips to help them behave!

If your pup is at your wedding, the first must-do is take portraits with them! You can take photos with them before the ceremony one-on-one, or after the ceremony together as a couple. You’ll have these photos to remember your sweet pup forever.

Another idea is to give your dog a role. Not only does this distract them and keep them entertained, but it also creates the sweetest memories (and some of the cutest wedding photos).

Here are some possible roles to give your dog:

• Pup of Honor: Have one of your wedding party members walk your dog down the aisle. He can then sit alongside them for the ceremony.
• Flower Dog: If your dog is talented (and calm) enough, have her be the flower dog! She can carry a basket of flowers in her mouth as the flower girl spreads the petals.
• Ring Bearer: Tie the rings to your dog’s collar with a ribbon or find a custom-made ring holder and have him walk the wedding bands down the aisle.
• Escort: If you’re struggling to find an extra person to walk down the aisle with your grandparents, aunt, or whomever, consider having your dog be their escort! We even had a bride walk down with her dog. She wore a leaf and floral collar as she walked her fur-mom down the aisle and it was precious.

Tiffany Holmes Photography

Kyle Sudu Photography

If your dog can’t be at your wedding, you can still find ways to include them! If you took engagement photos with your dog, consider using a photo with them as your save the dates. Or include a drawing of them on your invitations, signs around the venue, or anywhere else you might want to include them.

Tips for Incorporating Your Pet:

• Make sure to check with your venue to make sure they allow pets. They might charge a pet fee or have extra requirements to meet in order to bring your dog.
• Assign someone responsible to watch your dog throughout the night. Equip them properly with anything they might need throughout the night, including a leash, waste bags, treats, water, etc.
• Keep treats handy. Treats can help your dog behave as you take photos and as your pup walks down the aisle.
• Don’t make them stay the whole time. Have their dog walker or someone else take your pet home after the ceremony. This will give your pet a chance to calm down after a busy day full of people as well as help make the rest of your reception go smoothly.

We hope these tips and ideas are helpful! Find more doggie dos and don’ts on Southern Living’s blog.

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​Looking for more tips for your big day? Check out our wedding planning tips section over on our blog!

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