12 Memorable Ways to Include Dogs in Weddings

by Hannah Roundy

Married couple with their dog at their wedding outside

Here's super meaningful ways to include your dog in your wedding celebration, whether they attend the event or not.

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.

 Dog sitting at alter at wedding with couple

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. 

Corgi dog in suit for wedding

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