The day you get married is one of the most memorable days of your life. So why shouldn’t your pup be included in the festivities? Here are a few ways to include dogs in weddings – even if they aren’t physically attending. 

Dogs in Weddings: Good or Bad Idea?

The first decision you must make is whether your dog can attend your wedding. This all depends on a number of factors, including your dog’s behavior and the venue’s pet policy. 

Will having a dog in the wedding stress you out?

For some brides and grooms, having their dog in the wedding isn’t an option. Some pups simply aren’t comfortable being around large groups of people and loud noises. Weddings are stressful without having an anxious dog in the mix. So if your pup isn’t going to be comfortable at your wedding, it’s best to leave them at home and honor them in the festivities some other way. 

If your dog is a good listener, well-trained, and at ease around strangers, feel free to have them at your wedding. Who doesn’t love dogs in weddings? Just as long as they aren’t a distraction to the special couple on their wedding day. 

Check your venue’s pet policy beforehand. 

Including your dog in the wedding may not even be an option depending on where you are getting married. Some indoor venues have a strict no pets policy in place. Outdoor venues may be more lenient on including dogs in weddings. Either way, check with your venue before committing to having your dog with you at the altar. 

Your dog doesn’t have to be present to be honored. 

Although heartbreaking, leaving your dog home on the wedding day might be a better option for some couples-to-be. In no way does this mean your dog can’t be part of your wedding. Instead, you can include your dog in the wedding photos before or after the ceremony. 

How to Physically Include Dogs in Weddings

Walk Your Pup Down the Aisle

The most iconic way to include your dog in the wedding ceremony is to have them walk down the aisle with you. They can walk alongside the bride, groom, ring bearer, or flower girls. No matter which method you choose, it’s sure to solicit an “awww” from your guests. 

Make Them “Sit” at The Altar

You can include dogs in weddings as honorary groomsmen or bridesmaids. That means that your dog can stand up at the altar right alongside you as you exchange vows and rings. Now, we only suggest this option for the most patient dogs that can stay still for the length of the ceremony.

Have Them Bear the Rings

Your dog can even be the ring bearer during the ceremony. This might seem like a risky task to assign an animal, but it can be done safely. Try purchasing a ring pillow that attaches to your dog’s collar or harness. 

Dress Your Dog For The Occassion

If your dog will be out and about with guests, dress them in fancy outfits to fit in with the crowd. You can try a dog tuxedo, fancy bandana, bowtie, or even a doggy dress. Dogs that don’t like to be dressed up should get a special collar, leash, or harness for the occasion. 

Serve Doggy Dessert 

What’s one of the best moments at a wedding? Cutting the cake, of course! Bring your dog in on the fun by serving them their own dog-friendly wedding cake or treat. They can dig in while you and your partner cut your first slice. 

First Dance as A Family

To make your pup feel extra special on your wedding day, include them in your first dance. Your dog may or may not get the dancing concept, but it’s a sweet gesture nonetheless. 

Other Ways to Honor Your Dog in the Wedding

Don’t fret if you can’t have your dog physically present at your wedding. There are plenty of other meaningful, creative ways to make them feel included. 

Print Dog-Themed Stationery

Include a custom illustration of your dog on your wedding stationery. This could include the save-the-dates, invitations, or thank-you notes. Plenty of stationery small businesses offer custom drawings of dogs, like this example from an Etsy shop. 

Take Engagement Photos with Your Pup

Another easy way to include dogs in weddings without attending the ceremony is to take engagement photos with them. Book a grooming appointment for your pup so they look their best. Add a bowtie to their collar or another accessory to spruce up their usual look. Give the photographer a few treats to keep your dog smiling and motivated in your photos. 

Dog Cake Toppers

If your dog loves to eat, consider adding honoring them on your wedding cake. Dog cake toppers have become quite popular over the past few years. Some artists will even make custom cake toppers with your dog’s likeness.

Ask for Shelter/Rescue Donations

Did you adopt your pup from a local animal shelter or rescue? If so, you can encourage your wedding guests to donate to said shelter or rescue in place of wedding gifts. This way your wedding is giving back to dogs in need.

Custom Dog Cocktail Napkins

Looking for more subtle ways to include dogs in weddings? Try printing your pup’s adorable mug on custom cocktail napkins. This is a meaningful but small way to include your dog on your special day. 

Dog-Themed Wedding Favors

Send your guests home with a dog-themed favor. You can order custom favor bags with your dog’s face on them along with your wedding date. To go the extra mile, you can even gift your dog parent guests with pet treats to share with the pup they left at home.