Dogs at weddings ????

 Just to be transparent, as a dog owner, I don’t see any problems at all, but in the spirit of fairness, I have tried to remain balanced !!!!!!

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, filled with joy, love, and the people (and pets) who matter most. For many couples, dogs aren’t just pets; they’re family. So, it’s no surprise that more and more couples are choosing to include their furry friends on their big day. And just to be transparent, I am definitely in favour; my pup Daphne, a cheeky blue Whippet, would be the guest of honour.

But is having your dog at your wedding a good idea? Before you choose a floral collar or doggy tux, here’s a look at the pros and cons of including your dog in your wedding celebration… yes, there are a few cons… just a few!

🐾 The Pros of Having Your Dog at Your Wedding

Your dog has been with you through everything, and it’s natural to want them by your side on such a special day. Including your furry friend in the ceremony beautifully demonstrates the story of your bond. As your celebrant, i can incorporate them into the ceremony as much or as little as you desire.

Let’s be honest: dogs in wedding photos are adorable. Whether your pup wears a floral garland, a bow tie, or simply their natural charm, they’ll bring a playful, heartwarming touch to your wedding album. The only challenge might be keeping them still for photos, so it’s best to speak to the photographer beforehand so they know the pup will be the centre of attention.

Most guests love seeing a well-behaved dog at a wedding. Dogs tend to bring a light, joyful energy that can instantly lift spirits and spark conversation among guests. Some dogs are capable of carrying the rings (with supervision, of course). It’s a sweet, creative way to involve them directly in the ceremony. I tend to let them walk down the aisle with a fake ring box, and a member of the wedding party holds the real ones. Dogs are super cute but also quite unreliable! If you and your partner are blending households or adopting a dog together, having them at your wedding symbolises a new chapter for your growing family. They will also help children feel involved if they have the task of looking after the family pet.

🦴 The Cons of Having Your Dog at Your Wedding… there are a few

Even the most obedient dog can get overwhelmed in a crowd or distracted during the ceremony. Loud music, strangers, and excitement can lead to barking, mishaps, or even a doggy meltdown. Your dog will need constant care and supervision throughout the event. Someone will need to feed, walk, and calm them—ideally, someone who is not part of the wedding party or a guest trying to enjoy the day. My advice is to hire a dog sitter for the day; yes, they exist, and a professional will look after your dog during the ceremony and photos, then take them home with them for the night so you can enjoy yourself… dogs don’t always like parties.

Not all venues permit animals, especially indoors or in formal settings. Even outdoor venues may have rules about pets due to safety, liability, or allergy concerns, so you need to check beforehand. More and more venues will allow pets to participate, if not for the entire ceremony, then at least in some capacity. As your celebrant, I will always say yes! But not every guest is a dog lover. Some may have allergies or fears, which could cause discomfort or health issues. You’ll need to weigh your dog’s inclusion against the comfort of your guests.

🐶 Tips If You Decide to Include Your Dog

Could you do a trial run at the venue or around crowds to see how your dog reacts?

Hire a pet handler or designate a trusted friend to care for your dog throughout the day.

Keep it short and sweet—perhaps your dog is just there for the ceremony or photos, then goes home.

Dress for comfort, not just cuteness. Avoid tight or heavy outfits for your pup.

Have a backup plan in case your dog becomes too anxious or overwhelmed.

Final Woof

Bringing your dog to your wedding can be a beautiful, meaningful choice—but it’s not suitable for everyone. Consider your dog’s temperament, the venue, and the amount of stress you're willing to manage on your special day. Whether your furry friend walks down the aisle or features in your pre-wedding photos, their presence will always be part of the love story you’re sharing.

Cats, tortoises, and buggies at weddings is another blog altogether!!!