5 Ways to Include Your Puppy in Your Wedding

Puppy in Your Wedding by Karol King     |Published 05-07-2021

If you're thinking about giving your puppy a role in your wedding, you're not alone. According to a recent survey, 38 percent of pet owners include their pet in their wedding.

Moreover, almost 70 percent of pet owners said that they prefer to marry someone who owns or wants to own a pet. Since most pet owners consider their dogs as family, it's only natural to include them in all of life's big moments.

How to Include Your Puppy in Your Wedding:  5 Tips

Having your dog in your wedding celebration also sends out a clear message that your fur baby is important to you and will always be a part of your life. If you want your pup in your nuptials, here are some adorable ways for your puppy to be involved in your special day.  Here are five tips to help you plan.

Assign your pup to be the ring bearer

Traditionally, a young child is tasked to be a ring bearer at a wedding. But if your puppy has a good disposition, there's no reason why your fur baby shouldn't have this role. It's a great way to involve your pet in your nuptials and it's also a unique way to personalize your wedding.

Have your puppy wear the ring pillow around their collar, secure it to their harness, or order a wedding dog collar online. Don't forget to dress you dog in a ring bearer outfit, such as a sleeveless vest with a tuxedo pattern.

Have a groomsman or a bridesmaid walk your puppy on a leash during the ceremony so that everything will go smoothly on your wedding day. 

Let your dog walk with you down the aisle

Fathers usually walk their daughters down the aisle, but if this isn't possible, why not let you fur baby walk with you instead? Let them wear a bejeweled harness and leash for the occasion and proudly make your way to the altar.

Alternatively, your pup can stay with the groom while waiting for you at the altar. Your pet can also stay there while you're saying your wedding vows to each other. 

Take pictures with your dog

If your pooch is attending your wedding, don't forget to include your pet in your wedding pictures. First, have a "family photo" that includes you, your spouse, and your dog.

Next, have your pup pose with the groomsmen, then with the bridesmaids. For a cute photo op, ask your photographer to snap a picture of your dog with the kids in your wedding party.

Small puppies should be held for photo ops, so whoever's standing in the middle of a group shot should hold your pooch for the shot.  Don't forget to dress your dog for the occasion.

Decorate with dog-themed accessories

If your dog can't be with you on your special day, you can include them by decorating the reception venue with dog-themed accessories.

Consider having a dog cake topper in addition to the traditional bride and groom topper, as well as cupcakes topped with a mini cutout of your beloved pet.

Meanwhile, place cards featuring your dog's silhouette make a charming addition to dining tables. You can also display a picture of you, your pet, and your partner on the welcome table if your pup can't be there to greet your guests.

Remember to take a photo with your puppy during your engagement photo shoot so you can have a few nice pictures to use as decoration for your wedding day. 

Take Full Advantage of Your GoPro

If you have a GoPro, attach it to your dog's back, if he's a small dog and give your dog some freedom to run around during preparations or at the reception if permitted.  You will be pleased with the unusual camera angle and priceless footage you will cherish forever. Who knew your favorite canine could be such a clever videographer. 

Training your pet for your wedding

If your pup is focused, relaxed, and is comfortable with crowds, then it's likely that you won't have worry about your dog misbehaving on your wedding day.

However, all pets still need a bit of training, especially if your pup has a role on your special day. To ensure that everything will go smoothly, make sure to train your pet at least four months before your big day.

Do your training sessions in your backyard or garage and create an aisle using chairs or stools. Play music while you practice walking down your makeshift aisle so your puppy will get used to hearing loud sounds on the big day.

If your pooch will be the ringbearer, have them wear the collar or harness every time you train, and have them walk the route multiple times. Don't forget to reward your dog with treats after every successful training session. 

Your puppy is a huge part of your life, so consider these tips to involve your pet in your wedding. If they have a special role, remember to do a couple of practice runs a few months before the big day to train your pet. Keep in mind though that small dogs can be unpredictable, so embrace the fun if your dog happens to do something spontaneous on your special day!

Author Bio (Puppy in Your Wedding)

Karol King is an animal lover who has dedicated her life to helping dogs to find a safe and happy home. She now works as a freelance writer, which is her passion, and has the freedom to spend more time at home with her wonderful family.