Dog of Honour: A Modern Guide to Weddings with Your Pup
Can’t imagine your big day without your pup? Our guide covers everything you need to know to make your furry friend the guest of honour at your wedding.
Talk to Your Venue First
First things first: confirm with your wedding venue whether dogs are allowed on the property. Most venues have a pet or animal policy they can provide. Some are fully pet-friendly and happy to welcome four-legged guests, others may only permit pets in outdoor areas (great if you're planning an outdoor ceremony), and some may not allow animals at all.
If having your dog at the wedding is a must-have, make sure to ask about pet policies before signing any contracts or locking in your venue.
Have Someone on Dog Duty
Be sure to have a reliable, dog-loving helper: ideally someone from your wedding party or a close friend your dog knows—to take care of your pup during the quieter or busier moments of the day.
Remember, dogs thrive on routine. Most are used to daily walks and playtime, which a typical wedding schedule might not allow for. Build in some time for your pup to stretch their legs and burn off energy so they stay calm and happy.
Just as you thoughtfully plan every detail of the guest experience—from food and drinks to comfort—your dog’s needs should be given the same care. Ask your venue in advance whether they can provide essentials like water bowls and feeding areas. If not, plan to bring what your pup will need, including food, treats, and any comforts from home. A little preparation goes a long way in making sure your four-legged guest is just as well looked after as everyone else.
Match the Setting to Your Pet’s Needs
When it comes to walks and fresh air, your choice of venue is key. Urban or fully indoor venues with limited outdoor space might not be the most comfortable environment for a dog to spend an entire day. If you're getting married somewhere that isn’t especially pet-friendly, consider arranging for your pup to be picked up after the ceremony so they can relax elsewhere.
While having your dog at your wedding may feel like a dream come true for you, it’s important to think about what’s best for them. If your dog is shy, anxious around crowds, or prone to getting overly excited, a bustling wedding environment might be overwhelming. In that case, it might be kinder to leave them out of the celebration—or adjust the event to better suit their needs. If their presence is a top priority, you could opt for a smaller, more relaxed wedding where your dog will feel more at ease.
Making It All Happen
As mentioned earlier, many couples choose to have their dog present for just part of the day—often the ceremony—but not the entire celebration. You might prefer to have your pup arrive just in time for a relaxed outdoor reception, or you may want them by your side from start to finish.
Whatever you decide, it’s important to plan the logistics in advance. Who will be responsible for picking up or dropping off your dog? Do they have everything your pet will need for the day? Is everyone involved aware of the schedule? Sorting out these details ahead of time will help the day run smoothly—for both you and your four-legged friend.
Pick the Perfect Outfit
Nothing adds charm to a wedding quite like a dog sporting a wedding veil or a dashing little suit. There are plenty of great companies offering cute bow tie collars, delicate veils, and even floral crowns for your furry friend. While these outfits are undeniably adorable, it’s important to consider the weather—especially if your wedding is during the summer months, when your pet could get overheated. Additionally, some pet outfits might be uncomfortable or impractical for your dog to wear all day, so choose wisely to keep your pup happy and comfortable throughout the celebration.
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