Here's how to give your furry friend a front row seat at your celebration

Are you the kind of person who thinks every major life event is better with your pup by your side? If so, you're not alone. Dogs are like family, and when it comes to planning your wedding, it's only natural to want to include yours. Whether you have a goofy Golden Retriever, a seriously cute Bulldog, or a fluffy little canine that fits in your purse, we've got 10 tips for having dogs at weddings that will leave you with zero stress and lots of adorable photo ops.

1. Decide Whether and How Your Dog Should Attend

Let’s start with the big question: As much as we love our pups, not every dog is comfortable in big, noisy, people-packed situations. Ask yourself:

• Is my dog well behaved around crowds?

• Will they have a place to play and rest?

• Can someone reliably them watch throughout the day?

If your answers are all yes, then bring on the bowties and flower crowns! If not, there are still plenty of ways to honor your dog from afar (more on that below).

2. Give them a Role to Play:

• Flower Pup -  Have them walk down the aisle with a garland or floral leash
   
• Dog of Honor / Best Dog -  Just like your bridal party, but furrier
   
• Greeter - Calm dogs make cute greeters during pre-ceremony mingling

Bonus Tip! If you have your own website, write your dog a bio. People will love it!

3. Dress Them to Impress (and Feel Comfortable)

You don’t need to go full tux and tails, but a stylish outfit or accessory can make your dog look dapper and wedding-ready. Dogs at weddings deserve a little something in their wardrobe to have and to hold as a fun keepsake.

• Bandanas with “Dog of Honor” or your wedding date
   
• Floral collars to match the bridal bouquet
   
• Custom bowties in your wedding colors
   
• Tuxedo vests or tutu skirts for dogs who love to be fancy

To make sure the outfit is comfortable, breathable, and doesn’t restrict movement, start with a dress rehearsal at home.

4. Designate a Dog Wrangler

This is key. You’re going to be pretty busy getting married, so assign a trusted dog-loving friend or hire a professional pet attendant. Their job will be to:

• Keep your dog calm and happy
   
• Manage potty breaks and water
   
• Escort your pup to and from photo ops
   
• Take them home or to a pet sitter when their doggy duties are done
   

If your dog is only coming for part of the celebration, be sure to share news with your planner and photographer so the timeline works smoothly. Having dogs at weddings is all about knowing when to welcome them and when to say goodnight.

5. Include Them in Your Photos

Whether they’re in the wedding party or just visiting for portraits, dogs bring out sweetness and real smiles in every photo. Here are a few photo-friendly moments to consider:

• Getting-ready shots with you and your partner
   
• Walking down the aisle
   
• Formal portraits with your pup
   
• Candid kisses and cuddles
   
• That first look… with your dog (we’ve seen it and yes, it’s as cute as it sounds)

Pro tip: Let your photographer know in advance that you dog will be part of your shot list. Great photographers, like our members, know how to prep for this and get their attention with treats, toys and well-time encouragement. Some photographers listed in our director are such dog lovers they specialize in taking photos of furry friends.

6. Consider Your Venue

Make sure your venue is dog-friendly before you send your deposit. Some properties allow dogs on outdoor lawns only; others welcome them everywhere (yes, even on the dance floor). Check:

• Are dogs allowed at both the ceremony and reception?
   
• Are there safe spaces away from loud music or heat?
   
• Can they provide water bowls and shaded areas?

If your venue isn’t dog-friendly, consider having them present for some of your photos or just for getting-ready time, then send them off with a sitter. Or, simply think again, and find a place that is perfect for your pup.
 

7. Add Doggie Decor

Want to weave your love for your dog into the overall theme? It’s easier than you think:
 

• Cakes and Cake toppers featuring you, your spouse, and your pup
  
   
• Escort cards with cute puppy photos or paw print motifs
  
   
• Favors like dog treats in cute bags for guest pups
   

You can even get desserts that look like your dog. (And yes, we whole-heartedly support that.)

8. Ways to Include Your Dog From Afar

If your pup can’t be there in person—whether due to health, age, travel restrictions, or temperament—you can still honor them in sweet and memorable ways:

• Include a photo of them on your invitation suite
   
• Add them to your wedding video montage
   
• Name a charity donation in their honor
   
• Include them in your engagement shoot and display your photos
   
   

• 

9. Know the Dos and Don’ts

Here’s a quick cheat sheet for stress-free pup participation:

DO:

• Bring plenty of treats and water
   
• Make sure they get a walk before the ceremony
   
• Practice commands in advance (especially sit/stay!)
   
• Let guests know in case of allergies
   
• Have a cleanup plan (bags, wipes, and all)
   

DON’T:

• Force them into anything uncomfortable
   
• Let them off-leash in unfamiliar spaces
   
• Forget their ID tags and collar
   
• Leave them unattended during the reception
   
• Expect them to behave perfectly (they’re still a dog!)

10. Keep the Focus on Having Fun

The truth is, weddings are emotional, unpredictable, and sometimes overwhelming. Things might go off-script (someone pees on the altar flowers, anyone?), but that’s part of the charm.

Bringing dogs to weddings is about celebrating unconditional love. It's the way yours looks at you when you come down the aisle that's pure magic. And when they're wagging their tail on the dance floor and posing just by being themselves, those times are unforgettable.

So, hang that beautiful floral collar around your pet's neck, pack your treat pouch, and get ready to celebrate with your loyal friend by your side.

Want to get serious about dressing your dog? Check out these adorable shops and have fun planning your pet-friendly wedding!

The Foggy Dog

The Posh Dog Life

Society Hounds

Etsy