The Ultimate Guide for Dog-Loving Couples to Include Their Furry Friends in Their Wedding Day

Would you love to have your dog as a special guest at your wedding? 

Great this article is for you!
​After officiating over 250 weddings - here is what I have learnt about having dogs at weddings. 

Pippa + Ryan had their furbabies by their side.They had they cutest doggy outfits | Jade Timaru Celebrant

More and more couples are having their fur-babies at their wedding.  

​I find it is about 20% of engaged couples are now considering including their beloved pets in their wedding plans.

While having your dog be part of your big day sounds exciting, there are essential things to consider before bringing your four-legged friend to the wedding ceremony.

For some couples, friends and family are the top priority on their guest list, but for others, their furry companion is the show's star. Dogs are among the most popular pets in Aotearoa, New Zealand, and it's understandable why their owners want to share their special day with them.

If you are considering having your dog at your wedding, ensuring it's practical and safe for everyone involved is essential. 

Can Your Dog Be a Part of Your Wedding Celebration? 
Yes, having your dog attend your wedding is possible, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Consider various factors such as venue restrictions, allergies, and your dog's behaviour and training. 

I have compiled a list of essential things to consider to help you decide whether to have a pet-friendly wedding.

Important Factors to Consider

Check with Your Venue First and foremost!
You must check with your wedding venue if they allow dogs. Most venues have specific pet policies that they can provide to you. While some venues welcome pets with open arms, others may only allow pets outside, such as in an outdoor wedding ceremony, or not at all. If having your furry friend at your wedding is a non-negotiable must-have, you should confirm this with the venues before signing any contracts or making any final decisions.

Choose a Suitable Venue 
Consider the location of your wedding venue when deciding whether to bring your dog along. A city wedding or indoor venue with limited outdoor space may not be the best fit for your pup to spend the entire day. If your chosen venue isn't pet-friendly, arrange for someone to pick up your pet after the ceremony.

Consider Your Pet's Character 
While having your dog at your wedding may sound like a dream come true, it may not suit your pet. If your dog is shy and uncomfortable around people or highly energetic and excitable, there may be a better fit to have them at your wedding. In such a case, you may need to rethink your plans.

​If having your dog around is essential, consider having a smaller, more intimate wedding where your pet can feel more at ease.
​
Assign a Dedicated 'Dog-Sitter' for Your Dog 
If you've decided to include your furry friend in your wedding day, ensuring they're well taken care of throughout the day is important. Enlist a responsible dog-sitter, who your pet is familiar with, to keep them entertained during the downtime between their role in the ceremony. This could be someone your dog knows well like a trusted friend.

Cute Macy the ring bearer at Anna + Hamish Wedding

​Food, Water and Shade 
Like human guests, your pet must be fed and hydrated throughout the day.

​Check with your venue if they provide water and food bowls or if you need to bring your own. Make sure to pack enough food and treats for your furry friend.

​Don't forget shade! Let them have a cool spot to rest, sleep or play. 

Don't Forget Exercise 
Ideally give your dog big walk in the morning before coming to the wedding. Tire them out. Feed them as well. 

It's important to remember that your dog will still need exercise and fresh air on your wedding day. Make sure to schedule designated times for them to run around and stretch their legs, as the day's structure may not allow for their usual walks.

Mhairi + Ben's Dog chillaxing during the Ceremony | Photo: Brad Reeve Photography

Take Logistics into Account 
Many couples want their dogs to be present for the ceremony rather than the rest of the day. Your dog should stay home for the first part of the wedding and join you for the outdoor reception or have them with you throughout the day.

​Whatever your plan is, ensure that you organise the day's logistics. 

• Who will pick up and drop off your pet? 
• Do they have everything they need?
•  Have you communicated the timings to everyone involved?

​Pack Their Favorite Things 
Dogs require entertainment and won't want to be idle at reception for hours. Pack your dog's favourite toys, treats, and a cozy blanket or bed to entertain and comfort your furry friend.

Think About the Outfit 
A dog in a wedding veil or an adorable suit is a sight. Many amazing companies offer cute bow tie collars, doggy veils, and even flower crowns. While these outfits are lovely, be mindful of the weather. If you're getting married in the height of summer, make sure your pet isn't too hot. Remember, some of these outfits may be uncomfortable and impractical for pets to wear all day.

​Prepare Your Pup 
Not all dogs are comfortable around large crowds of people, so take advantage of any opportunities to socialise your pooch before the big day. Family BBQs or pet-friendly festivals are excellent opportunities to determine if your dog is comfortable in large gatherings. I 100% recommend rehearsing and training your pet, particularly if you intend to have them as your ring bearer.

Do a Trial Run 
Take your dog to the rehearsal! This is an opportunity to identify any triggers for your pet, such as loud noises, busy car parks, or other animals on-site that could pose a problem on the day.

Erin + Tamati's dog looking cute, was the wee scene-stealer at Braemar Station

Consider Allergies and Fears 

• Do any of your wedding guests have allergies to dogs? 
• Do any of the venue staff or suppliers have a pet allergy or fear? 
• Informing people beforehand enables them to take precautions such as taking anti-histamine tablets and keeping their distance from your pet on the day.

View It From Your Dog's Perspective 
Ultimately, when deciding whether to include your pet in your wedding, you must consider the event from your pet's viewpoint. 

• Will it be an enjoyable experience for them? 
• Will they have a fun day? 
• Is it feasible? ​

​Including your beloved pet in your wedding is a beautiful thought, but it must work on a practical level for you, your guests, the wedding venue, and, most importantly, your dog.

What Role will they have?

• One of the dogs' most common wedding roles is as a ring bearer or dog of honour. This involves your dog wearing a special outfit and walking down the aisle with rings or a sign.
• You may choose to have their dog as a bridesmaid, groomsman, or even as the best man.
• If your dog is well-behaved and comfortable in a busy environment, they can also walk you down the aisle. If your dog becomes agitated or overwhelmed, having your 'Dog Sitter' on standby can be helpful to remove them from the ceremony and keep them happy.
• Some couples also choose to have their dog at the wedding with no formal role, allowing them to enjoy the celebrations and roam around, looking adorable. 

Regardless of your dog's role in your wedding, your dog sitter can significantly improve your and your dog's experience on the big day. It passes the responsibility over to someone else so you can enjoy your day knowing your furry friend is in the hands of a loving friend!

Enjoying an Autumn Walk with Ruby + Betty

My Final Thoughts

If  your dog ( cat, rabbit, snake or mouse) can't  join you  we can still mention them in the ceremony or have something special to represent them.

Remember to check with your photographer, videographer, DJ or celebrant to ensure they're comfortable with your dog being in attendance. 

If I am your celebrant - I welcome fur babies!
I have two dogs, Ruby and Betty myself!
​Love, Jade x

Check Out Ideas For Symbolic Enactments

Family Memory  Box

Handfasting

Unity Candle

Tree or Rose Planting 

Sand Ceremony

Wine or Whiskey Box

 Connect for an obligation free chat. Let's get you two lovebugs married!

David + Joshua married with a beautiful personalised ceremony and sand ceremony enactment. | Photo: From Couple

"​We can meet at my home in Queen Street, at a local cafe or bar, or we can zoom!

Let's chat and discuss what you want and need.
​
If you don't know what you want in a ceremony ​- ​not a problem, I am full of good ideas!"

Love, ​Jade x

Connect with Jade