For many of us, our dogs aren’t just pets; they’re cherished members of the family. So, it’s no wonder that couples often dream of having their furry best friend by their side as they say “I do.” Including your dog in your wedding ceremony can add an extra layer of joy, personality, and undeniably adorable moments. However, it requires careful planning and consideration to ensure a smooth and happy experience for everyone involved – especially your furry friend!
Here’s a helpful guide on how to include your dog in your wedding ceremony.
1. How to decide if your dog should be a part of the wedding ceremony
Assessing whether your dog is the right fit to be included in the wedding ceremony comes first and foremost. Be honest about your dog’s personality and make sure your dog checks the following boxes. First of all, is your dog calm and well-behaved in new situations? Can they remain comfortable in larger excited crowds and handling loud noises? Are they able to relax and not lash out with excessive barking, jumping or generally unsettled behaviour?
If your dog is anxious, easily overwhelmed, or has unpredictable behavior, it might be kinder to have them involved in other aspects of the wedding, like photos or the reception, rather than the potentially stressful ceremony.
2. Choose the Right Role
Your dog does not need to be included in every aspect of the wedding celebration either. Picking and choosing certain moments to include your dog and have them feature in your wedding is perfectly acceptable as well.
Consider your dog’s personality and abilities when assigning them a role:
Ring Bearer: Instead of having a niece or nephew as the ring bearer, have your little furry friend take on the role. Just tie the rings safely to a comfortable harness or pillow they can carry. Practice their walk down the aisle beforehand!
Flower “Pup”: Instead of scattering petals, your dog could walk alongside a flower girl or boy, or even have a small, secure basket of petals attached to their harness (ensure they won’t be tempted to eat them!).
Walking Down the Aisle: Your dog can walk down the aisle with a designated handler, either before the wedding party or as a special escort for the bride or groom.
Standing by Your Side: If your dog is well-behaved, they could simply sit or lie down calmly at the altar with a designated handler.
Official Greeter: Have your dog (on a leash with a handler) greet guests as they arrive.
3. Designate a Handler
This is pretty important. You’ll be busy getting married so we advise choosing a responsible and calm friend or family member who your dog knows and trusts to be their dedicated handler throughout the ceremony. This person will be responsible for holding the dog’s leash, making sure they have enough water and food, and allowing for as many potty breaks as necessary. The handler’s job is also to make sure the dog is well behaved and calm during the ceremony, and will be ready and willing to remove them if they are anxious or disruptive.
4. Prepare Your Dog
One of the best ways to make sure your dog is ready for the ceremony is to bring them to the ceremony location beforehand so they can get used to the sights, sounds, and smells.
If the dog is more than just a bystander, rehearse their walk down the aisle or their position at the altar multiple times. Use positive reinforcement and treats!
Getting your dog ready for the big day can be fun as well! Consider a stylish bandana, a floral collar, or a small, comfortable outfit. Make sure it doesn’t restrict their movement or cause them distress.
Pack a doggy “emergency kit” with water, treats, poop bags, a favorite toy, and possibly a calming spray as well.
5. Inform Your Venue and Officiant
This is one of the first things that you should make clear. Not all venues allow animals, so confirm their pet policy well in advance.
Not everyone is comfortable with dogs, so make sure that your wedding officiant can confidently and comfortably lead the ceremony, without the dog making them nervous or causing other problems.
6. Consider Your Guests
Be mindful of any guests who may have allergies or a fear of dogs. Clearly communicate that a dog will be present in your wedding invitations. If some guests are less comfortable with dogs, consider seating them further away from your furry friend.
7. Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Dogs are unpredictable! Even with the best planning, there might be a bark at a crucial moment or a sudden urge to explore. Embrace the imperfections and remember that these are often the moments that make your wedding truly unique and memorable (and provide great stories later!).
Aaarf whoof! (That means good luck in Dog.)
– Bernard Paul