Is your big day coming and you can’t imagine celebrating without your fur baby there?! If you’ve ever seen a cute photo on Pinterest or video online that shows the cutest pup coming down the aisle as the “ring bearer”, then we’re sure you’re swooning at the idea! Having worked with some couples who have done this, we think it can be so sweet and unique to YOU. That said, we do have some helpful hints to make sure this all runs smoothly!

Photo Credit: Catarina Carlson Photography
1. Have your dog freshly groomed. Hey, we love our pup too, but when everyone is dressed up to the nines, it’s only right your canine friend is pampered too and ready for the ball (uh… we mean wedding; not tennis ball).
2. Designate someone to be the dog handler. Who is going to be on dog duty before the wedding? Who’s going to make sure he’s where he needs to be, on leash, and ready to go for the processional? It’s ALWAYS best to assign this job to someone so they know in advance. We definitely don’t advise you play it by ear and just hope to figure it out on the day of. That last hour before the ceremony is some of the busiest time of the day, so don’t leave this to question.
3. Practice with your pup. That’s right! Bring your pup to rehearsal so he and the handler (likely a groomsman or flower girl) can practice getting down the aisle.
4. Save a seat for your dog handler. If there’s a chance your sweet Pongo won’t make it sitting still throughout the ceremony, it’s best to have a reserved seat available for them to discretely pull him aside. Afterall, we don’t want him to steal the show!
5. Bring treats. Let’s be honest. This gives you the highest likelihood that he’ll obey and do what you want during the ceremony.

Photo Credit: Catarina Carlson Photography
Bonus: Have your florist create a special collar for Fido or some greens to attach to his leash. These make for the cutest pictures and help fully incorporate your wedding theme into every aspect of your day.
So, tell us! Are you planning on involving your dog on your wedding day? Share below or reach out if you want more planning tips 🙂
Leave a Reply