If you’re planning a dog-friendly wedding, you’ve probably wondered how to include your fur-baby without adding stress to the day. There are so many meaningful ways to make your pup part of your celebration…
Your First Look
My absolute favorite way to include your dog on your wedding day is during your first look.
Not only is it incredibly sweet to have your fur baby witness one of the most emotional moments of the day, but it’s also a quieter, more relaxed part of your timeline. This calmer environment is especially helpful for dogs that get anxious around large crowds or lots of activity.
One of my favorite examples was a beautiful May wedding at the Barn at Silverstone in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The groom, Adam, brought their sweet Golden Retriever, Willow, out to join their first look, and it couldn’t have been more perfect.
These two absolutely adore their girl, so having Willow by Adam’s side while they shared that special moment felt so natural. There were definitely a few extra tears from the bride!
Portraits (Obviously!)
After the first look, we headed straight into couples portraits with Willow, which is another must-have if you’re including your dog in your wedding day.
Some of my favorite images came from the simplest moments: lots of pets, snuggles, kisses, and giggles. Your dog doesn’t have to pose perfectly; we love a good candid moment!
If you’re planning portraits with your pup, here are a few poses I always recommend:
- Snuggle your heads together.
- Hold hands above your pup while they’re sitting between you.
- Capture close-up shots featuring your bouquet and your dog.
- Take a few photos underneath the veil together.
Once portraits were finished, Willow got to take a well-deserved break before the ceremony began. Giving your dog downtime throughout the day helps keep them happy, comfortable, and ready for their next appearance.
The Ceremony
I absolutely love when couples include their dog in the wedding ceremony. It’s even sweeter when the groom walks down the aisle with them! Bonus points if your pup is wearing a floral collar, bow tie, or a tiny tuxedo.
If you’re wondering what happens after your dog walks down the aisle, there are a few great options. I’ve seen couples hand the leash off to a groomsman, a bridesmaid, or a trusted family member. Sometimes the pup sits with the bride’s parents for the ceremony, while other times a designated dog-sitter takes them home after their big moment.
No matter how you include them, there’s something so special about hearing an unexpected little “woof” during the ceremony. Including your dog in your wedding doesn’t have to be complicated. With a thoughtful timeline and a little planning, your dog can be a part of your special day.
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