Having Your Dog in Your Wedding

Having Your Dog in Your Wedding

If you and your betrothed bought or adopted a dog while you were dating, you probably feel like he or she is your child;

that being said, you may want your pooch to partake in your ceremony.  Here are a few things to consider:

How does your dog act in crowds?  If your dog is not used to being around a lot of people, you may want to test out his/her socialization skills at a large family gathering prior to your wedding day.  Even the best-behaved dog can get nervous in an unfamiliar setting and/or around a sizeable crowd.  In general, a small, quiet dog will have an easier time at such an event than a large, energetic dog.

Your dog and your guests:  Inform your guests about your four-legged friend.  This will alert anyone with allergies

(or other aversions) so they can plan accordingly.

Planning on dressing your pooch in a tux?  Be careful not to jeopardize safety for style.  Your pet’s attire should fit properly and comfortably.  Keep the accessories simple—a bowtie or flower attached to the collar is a whimsical way to adorn your pet.  Be sure accessories don’t come loose and become a potential choking hazard to your pet.  And be certain any flowers or plants being used at your wedding are non-toxic to your pet.

Is your venue indoors or outdoors?  If you are having an outdoor event, be sure site is gated or secluded for the safety

of your dog.  If it is indoors, confirm that the facility allows pets.

Will you leash your dog?  If so, the person you choose to be responsible for your pooch throughout the wedding should be someone both you and your dog trust.  Be sure the person holding your dog has a seat near an exit so your dog can go for a walk if he/she gets restless.  And be sure to use a short leash.

Will your dog have a job?  Your dog can be a guest of honor and stand with the wedding party during the ceremony, or he/she can have a specific job. If your dog is up for it, you may want to consider having your dog as the ring bearer.  Just before your pet walks down the aisle (to lessen the risk of losing them), secure the rings to the collar with a festive ribbon.  Have your pet’s human guide carry some treats to reward your dog’s good behavior – and have extra treats at the ready for your guests to reward him/her as well!

Your Photographer:  Inform your photographer of your plans for including your dog.  He or she can then prepare for those unplanned moments, like when your dog leaps up to kiss you during the vows.  Your photographer can also suggest a few amusing photo ops of your pet for after the ceremony.

Other considerations:  Remind your guests that they should refrain from feeding your dog table food because it could make him sick.  Keep a bowl of fresh water close, especially for hot summer outdoor weddings!  Think about packing a bag for your dog that includes his/her bed and favorite chew toy to provide a sense of comfort and security.  Remember there is simply no guarantee that your pet will behave exactly how you wish him/her to on your wedding day.  Even the most gregarious pet can become overwhelmed by a crowd of guests.  If you ultimately decide not to have your dog in the wedding, have your photographer snap some photos of your family at home before the ceremony.