How can I include my dog in my wedding? We get this question alllll the time, so we thought we’d share some fun, creative ways to bring your pup in on the action. Because they’re part of the family, too!
From furry flower girls to pet-approved decor, there are so many ways to include your dog in your wedding, whether your venue allows four-legged friends or not (of course, don’t forget to check with the property first to find out their requirements!).
So whether you want to give your fur baby a starring role or a cute cameo, keep scrolling for our favorite ways to channel puppy love on the big day, plus a few expert tips from wedding pros!
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Our Favorite Ways To Include Your Dog In Your Wedding
1. Include Your Dog in Your Wedding Invitations or Save the Dates
dog wedding invites: sweetdatesprints on Etsy
“It may not be possible to include your pet in your wedding day. Instead, why not let them be the ones to announce the big news!” suggests the experts at FairyTail Pet Care.
If your venue doesn’t allow animals, this is an adorable way to include your dog in the wedding process. Include custom illustrations of your fur baby in your wedding suite (like the invitations above) or give them a cameo with a cute photo, paw print, or custom stamp. These also make for the best keepsakes!
2. Make Your Dog Your Official Wedding Greeter
photo: Jenny Smith & Co. | planner: Orange Blossom Special Events | florals: The Bloom of Time
The best way to make a good first impression on your wedding day? Let your dog be the official greeter! Position them at the entrance of your venue for welcome cuddles and the sweetest photo ops. Guaranteed everyone will be in a good mood with this welcome committee!
3. Show Them Off in Your Wedding Signage
custom dog wedding signage: EmmaHermiene on Etsy
If your pup can’t be there to greet guests in person, a custom welcome sign is the next best thing! Include a cute illustration or photo of your dog in your wedding signage for the ultimate puppy-approved decor.
4. Include Your Dog in Your Wedding Ceremony
photo: Lev Kuperman Photography from this Romantic Wedding in the Catskills
“For a lot of couples, their pet is a big part of the family. Incorporating your pet into your wedding ceremony is certainly not the only way to include them, but it sure is a special way!” says the FairyTail Pet Care team.
For sweet ways to include your dog in your wedding ceremony, have them sit beside you as you read out your vows, or invite them on your processional walk down the aisle. You could even let them say “I do” with a bark or paw shake!
5. Walk Them Down the Aisle as a Furry Escort
photo: John & Joseph Photography | planner: Event Lab as seen in this lush SoCal backyard wedding
For another unique way to include your dog in your wedding ceremony, why not make them part of your wedding party? They’ll love walking down the aisle as your official pup of honor (or best dog!)…and your guests will love it, too.
“Assigning your dog as an escort to an important person in your ceremony can be a great way to include them, whether it’s a bridal party member, parents of the couple, or even the bride or groom,” says the pros at FairyTail Pet Care.
GWS Pro Tip: If you are having your dog walk down the aisle, make the moment extra special (and photo-worthy!) with a cute leash. Decorate it with some of your wedding flowers or choose a luxe pattern or material that matches your dress code. Etsy has some of our fave chic and unique options!
6. Make Your Dog Your Wedding Ring Bearer (or Flower Girl)
photo: Ty and Eri Photography as seen in this elegant Cape Town wedding
Want to go one step further? Instead of just including your dog as an escort for your wedding ceremony, give them a starring role as your ring bearer or flower girl!
This couple’s pup was a very good boy carrying the rings down the aisle on his custom pillow. For another cute idea, we also found these rad custom ring pouches that you can attach to any collar!
7. Customize Your Cocktail Napkins
photo: John & Joseph Photography | planner: Event Lab as seen in this lush SoCal backyard wedding
Boring cocktail napkins are out. Custom dog-printed cocktail napkins are in! Make your dog the main character of your wedding cocktail hour by including their face and name on your napkins. You could even add a sweet slogan, like “drinks on me” or “I do, too!”
8. Dedicate Your Signature Cocktail to Your Dog
photo: John & Joseph Photography | planner: Event Lab as seen in this lush SoCal backyard wedding
And don’t just stop with cocktail napkins! You can also include your dog in your wedding cocktail hour with signature drinks and custom menus dedicated to your pet.
“A creative way to include dogs in weddings is by dedicating your signature cocktail to your dog!” says Jenna Miller, the Creative Director at Here Comes the Guide. “Name your drink of choice ‘The Cooper’ or ‘The Bailey’ and proudly display a framed cocktail menu with a list of ingredients, along with a photo or painting of your pup. You’ll think of your beloved pet every time you head to the bar. Bonus points if the booze is also dog-themed, à la The Greyhound or Salty Dog!“
9. Bring Your Dog to the Getting Ready Suite
photo: Magnolia + Ember | venue: Union Station Nashville
Your dog has been by your side through everything, so why should that change on your wedding day? Include your dog in the wedding morning by inviting them to your getting-ready suite. Bonus: dog cuddles are great for relieving those pre-ceremony jitters!
10. Include Your Dog In Your Wedding Attire
photo: Emily LC Photography | planner: Enchanted Design as seen in this dreamy art gallery Denver wedding
All great wedding attire should include something old, something new, something borrowed, and something dog-approved! We LOVE seeing couples include cute nods to their pups in their wedding attire, like this custom embroidered western suit with the couple’s dog on the back. Obsessed!
11. Wear Your Dog On Your Socks
photo: Sarah Brookhart Photography | planner: Nouvelle Weddings as seen in this boho Baltimore wedding
Another one of our favorite ideas for including your dog in your wedding attire: custom pet socks! This groom personalized his socks with photos of his fur baby and future spouse. It’s such a cute way to keep your dog close on the big day…and add some personality to your formal attire.
12. Dress Your Dog Up According to Your Wedding Dress Code
photo: John & Joseph Photography | planner: Event Lab as seen in this lush SoCal backyard wedding
Speaking of wedding attire, why not include your dog in the dress code, too?! Ensure they’re dressed to impress with doggy formalwear, whether that’s a cute flower girl dress like this pup or a custom tuxedo. Now bring on their close-up!
13. Or Give Them Their Own Statement Attire
photo: Chris Bennett Photography | planner: Fresh Take & Co as seen in this rock’n’roll themed fall wedding
Your dogs are going to be the stars of your wedding, and they deserve outfits that match. For a fun twist, trade classic wedding attire for something fun that reflects your theme — like these faux leather dog jackets for this rock and roll wedding!
GWS Pro Tip: Etsy has tons of unique dog outfits to include in your wedding attire, from tuxedo bandanas to cool denim jackets.
14. Dress Up Their Collar For the Big Day
photo: Mary Costa Photography | planner: Samantha Dapper as seen in this quirky antique wedding
If your dog wouldn’t be caught dead in puppy clothes, this is another cute idea to up their style game for the big day…without submitting them to tuxedo torture. Get them wedding day ready with a sweet floral or leaf wreath using greenery that matches your arrangements. It just doesn’t get any cuter!
Plus, we’ve included a step-by-step DIY tutorial to create your own floral wreath for your dog’s wedding collar here, or you can shop some of our faves on Etsy, too!
15. Include Your Dog In Your Wedding Cake
photo: Catalina as seen in this micro wedding in Positano, Italy
Three words: pet cake toppers! This is one of the ~sweetest~ ways to include your dog (or cat!) in your wedding decor, and such a fun alternative to a traditional cake topper.
16. Create a Doggy Wedding Guest Book
custom dog guestbook: The Knot
Looking for creative guestbook ideas? Turn this age-old wedding keepsake into something you’ll actually want to keep by including your dog in the design! From custom photo book covers to sweet illustrated posters, it’s a cute and meaningful homage to your favorite wedding guest.
17. Include Your Dog in Your Wedding Photos
photo: Brooke Miller Photography as seen in this sentimental backyard wedding
One of the easiest and most popular ways to include your dog in your wedding? A family portrait session! Whether they’re walking you down the aisle or cheering you on from the sidelines, be sure to snap a few professional photos with your fur baby to capture their role on your special day.
18. Make Dog Inspired Props for Your Wedding Photo Booth
custom dog cutout: 1andonlybyXJ on Etsy
And if you can’t include your dog in your professional wedding photos, these cute cutout props will ensure they’re there in spirit. We’ve seen a few GWS couples make cardboard cutouts of their four-legged besties when their venue wasn’t pet-friendly, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. And as a bonus, they make for the best photobooth props!
19. Use Your Dog as Inspo For Your Wedding Favors
photo: Sarah Brookhart Photography | planner: Nouvelle Weddings as seen in this boho Baltimore wedding
Puppy dog cookie favors? Talk about a drool-worthy send-off! These are the cutest treats for all the humans at your wedding, especially when paired with their own custom doggy bag.
P.S. For another cute way to include your dog in your favors, we also love these custom pet-inspired matchboxes!
For more unique wedding favors your guests will actually love, don’t miss our list of creative ideas here!
20. Give Back in Style
dog wedding signage: MarieBeeDesignStudio on Etsy
“What better way to honor your love for your pet than incorporating a give-back feature to your big day?” says Nathan Bellah, the Director of Marketing at Generation Tux.
For the animal lovers out there, we love the idea of giving a donation to an animal welfare charity in lieu of traditional favors. It’s a sweet way to include your dog in your wedding while also making a positive impact. Your dog, and all their animal friends, will thank you!
GWS Pro Tip: Looking for a good charity to support? “The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals works to fight against animal cruelty and promotes the joys of adopting pets that land in thousands of animal shelters nationwide,” shares Bellah. His team at Generation Tux also offers another unique way to donate: “Our love for pups knows no bounds, which is why we give the opportunity for grooms and groomsmen to purchase ASPCA pup socks with their suit or tux rental. Five dollars from every purchase goes directly to ASPCA!”
21. Include Your Dog in Your Wedding Activities
photo: Caitlin Rose Photography | planner: Bianca Nichole and Co as seen in this unique paddleboard lake wedding
If you’re including wedding games in your timeline, this is your sign to make them dog friendly! Your guests will love playing with your pup during the cocktail hour or reception, and vice versa. From a fun fetch station to paddleboarding on a lake (like this wedding!), there are so many ways to get your pet in on the action.
22. Embrace Dog Inspired Wedding Decor
photo: John & Joseph Photography | planner: Event Lab as seen in this lush SoCal backyard wedding
Want to lean ALL the way into the puppy love aesthetic? Hello, doggy decor! There are so many ways to include dog themed decorations in your wedding — think custom table signs, dog tag escort cards, or even personalized pet sculptures. There are no wrong answers here.
23. Make Your Dog Your Getaway Driver
photo: Joshua Kane | planner: Lucid Event Design as seen in this tropical + artsy Miami wedding
Okay, okay, so maybe your dog can’t be your literal getaway driver, but you can still include them in your wedding exit! Have them sit shotgun in your getaway car, or attach a “just married” garland to their leash while you walk out of the venue.
You could even take inspo from this couple and include an illustration of your dog as your getaway driver on your wedding favors. So cute!
24. Include Your Dog in Your Other Wedding Events
dog wedding attire: AnnaHappydog on Etsy
If your wedding venue is a no-pet zone, you can still include your dog in your other wedding events, like your welcome dinner or bridal shower. Dress them up and let them celebrate with you in style before the big day — not only will you get adorable photos, but your guests will love the chance to meet your fur baby in a more relaxed setting. It’s a win-win!
25. Pay Homage to Your Dog With Your Wedding Accessories
photo: Theo Nash Photography | planner: Hallea Events as seen in this colorful wedding in the woods
This is another creative way to include your dog in your wedding if there are venue restrictions. We love a fun accessories moment, especially when there’s a furry friend involved!
Pay tribute to your bestie with a custom dog purse (Anthro has some adorable beaded options!), a dog-themed pocket square, or even dog-inspired cufflinks. It’s unique AND meaningful!
26. Bring Your Dog to Your Elopement
photo: Adventure Instead
Even if you’re keeping it super simple and eloping somewhere, you can still include your dog in your wedding ceremony. The couple above eloped just the two of them and their dogs, and it was the perfect, intimate family affair!
Frequently Asked Questions: How to Include Your Dog in Your Wedding
Calling all pet parents! If you want to include your dog in your wedding, we’re sharing a few FAQs and expert tips to help you make it the best pet-friendly event possible. From how to prep your pup for the big day to the must-have resources for your furry friend, here’s everything you need to know about including your dog in your wedding festivities.
Can I include my dog in the wedding ceremony?
Of course! We’re seeing more and more couples include their dog in their wedding ceremony, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Whether they’re your ring bearer, flower pup, or just sit pretty as your dog of honor, your dog (and your guests) will love being part of the moment. Just be prepared for them to steal the show!
How do I make sure my dog is comfortable on the wedding day?
If you’re including your dog in your wedding day, it’s important to make them comfortable with a few extra preparations. Think ahead with water breaks, shady spots, and a comfy retreat away from the dance floor chaos. You should also bring along essentials like treats, toys, and a dog bed to keep them happy and entertained. Because a happy dog is a stress-free day for you!
GWS Pro Tip: For the dogs who aren’t social butterflies, it may be best to keep their mingling to a minimum. Let them make a cameo appearance, then retire to their VIP lounge (aka, cozy bed).
Do I need a pet handler or sitter at my wedding?
When including your dog in your wedding, it’s always a good idea to have a familiar face (like a trusted sitter, family member, or friend) who’s in charge of them for the day. They’ll be the unsung hero who handles bathroom breaks, leash tangles, and fetch sessions, so you can stay stress-free while you sip champagne.
How do I prepare my dog before the big day?
Before the wedding day, prepare your dog for the festivities by including a few extra steps in your training routine. Remember: practice makes paw-fect, so rehearse walks down the aisle, do a test run in their bow tie, and maybe let them sniff around the venue beforehand. This will help you avoid any surprises or stress when the spotlight hits.
Calling All Dog Parents: More Wedding Guides to Include In Your Planning Process
Yay for furry friends! We love seeing GWS couples include their dogs in their weddings, and we’re manifesting more pet-friendly celebrations in the future.
Looking for more unique ideas to personalize your big day? We’ve got you covered. From creative ideas for a backyard wedding (what better place to include your dog?!) to unexpected seating chart ideas, we have guides for every celebration. Check out our complete wedding planning hub for more inspo!
Are you planning to include your dog in your wedding? We’d love to hear more! Leave a comment below letting us know what type of dog you have and how he or she will be involved in your wedding! 🐶
