How to Include Your Dog in Your Wedding Day Celebration

Your wedding day is one of the most memorable dates of your life. For many couples, their dog is more than just a pet—they are a beloved family member. Including your dog in your wedding can add a unique and heartfelt touch to the celebration. However, it requires thoughtful planning to ensure your furry friend is comfortable and the day runs smoothly. This guide offers practical tips and ideas to help you include your dog in your wedding day with joy and ease. See the bottom of the page for a list of pet friendly vendors.

Decide your dog’s role in your Wedding Day

Before the big day, decide how you want your dog to participate. Some popular roles include:

• Ring bearer: Your dog can carry the rings on a decorative pillow or in a secure pouch attached to their collar or harness.

• Part of the Ceremony:  Your dog can walk with you or your partner during the ceremony, stand beside you during vows, or simply be present nearby to share the moment.

• Flower dog: Your dog can walk down the aisle with a floral collar or a small bouquet attached.

• Guest greeter: Have your dog welcome guests at the entrance or mingle during the reception in a pet friendly area.

• Photo star:   Even if your dog doesn’t participate in the ceremony, including them in your wedding photos during the day will create lasting memories.

  
  

Choose a role that fits your dog’s personality and training level. For example, a calm and obedient dog may do well as a ring bearer, while a more energetic dog might be better suited for photos or greeting guests. A shy dog might prefer to stay close to a trusted friend or family member rather than walking down the aisle.

Prepare your dog for the wedding environment

Weddings can be overwhelming for dogs due to crowds, noise, and unfamiliar surroundings. Prepare your dog by:

• Practicing basic training commands: Ensure your dog responds well to commands like sit, stay, and come.

• Familiarizing with the venue: If possible, visit the wedding location beforehand to help your dog get comfortable.

• Practicing the role: Rehearse walking down the aisle or carrying the rings to build confidence.

  
  

Consider hiring a professional dog trainer if your dog needs extra help with behavior or obedience.

Plan for your dog’s comfort and safety

Your dog’s well-being is essential on your wedding day, and every day as they are no doubt an important part of your family. Keep these points in mind:

• Assign a handler: Designate a trusted friend, family member, or pet sitter to care for your dog during the event. This can be someone you know or someone you hire. Many companies offer pet sitting and handling. Try Milwaukee Wedding Day Dogs for a local Wisconsin Wedding service. Assigning a hired handler can allow your family to focus on enjoying the day stress-free.

• Create a quiet space: Set up a calm area away from the crowd where your dog can rest if needed.

• Bring essentials & comfort items: Pack water, food, treats, waste bags, and any medications your dog requires.  Bring familiar items like their favorite blanket and toys to help them feel happy & secure.

• Avoid stressful situations: Keep your dog away from loud music, fireworks, or large groups that might cause distress.

  
  

Make sure your dog’s collar has updated identification tags (and microchip information is updated, if applicable) and your pet is up to date on all vaccinations.

Coordinate with your wedding vendors

Including your dog in your wedding day involves planning a celebration at a venue or location that can accommodate pets, not just service animals. This can be your own personal venue (think backyard wedding or family farm) or a dog friendly hotel or park. Many venues will allow an animal to visit for a short duration outdoors, but might not allow pets inside during dinner or the formal reception. Reach out to your vendors early to chat about your plans and secure appropriate permissions.

Discuss with your photographer the best times and locations for photos with your furry friend. Many photographers enjoy capturing candid moments with pets and can suggest creative ideas. If your dog is only staying for a short part of the day, make sure you have someone to bring them to and from the location, and that your photographer is ready to capture the magic at your designated time.

Dress your dog appropriately

If you want your dog to wear wedding attire, keep comfort in mind. Options include:

• Floral collars or garlands

• Bow ties or bandanas

• Lightweight vests or dresses designed for dogs

  
  

Avoid costumes that restrict movement or cause overheating. Test the outfit before the wedding day to make sure your dog tolerates it well. Alternatives include having your pup only wear the item for a few pictures, and then letting your dog relax in his or her normal collar or attire.

Final thoughts

It's normal to want to share your wedding day with your four legged best friends! With these tips and a little bit of planning, you should be able to celebrate with them in a safe and comfortable manner. If your dog is not able to stay for the entire event, plan for them to leave after the ceremony or before the reception. Allow for bathroom breaks and rest, and be mindful of them being overstimulated. Chances are they're not used to being around such a large amount of people.

Ultimately your dogs will add warmth and personality to your wedding as well as your photos and video keepsakes. Having your pet there to share the day with you will be the cherry on top of an already unforgettable experience.

Pet Friendly Vendors:

Venues: The Watershed Hotel Sheboygan, WI

Pond Cabin Kohler, WI

Blue Barn on the Green Oostburg, WI

Lakeside Park Fond du Lac, WI

The Nuthouse Fond du Lac, WI

Springbrook Events Burnett, WI

Wedding Pet Attendants: Wags of Love Milwaukee & Chicago

Milwaukee Wedding Day Dogs Milwaukee, WI

Dream Day Entertainment Sun Prairie, WI

Photographers:

Most photographers! including Sam Lauersdorf Photography

Interesting in including your furry friend in your engagement photos? Keep these tips in mind.