Should My Dog Be In My Wedding?

Here at the Red Barn we love our fur-babies (Rowdy*, if you’re reading this, you’re a good girl). It’s natural that you may want your four-legged friend at your special day—they’re part of your family after all. Including your dog in your wedding has increased in popularity over the years, but is it really practical? Having Fido attend your wedding comes with a few logistical challenges, but with the right dog and proper planning it can make your wedding day even more special. We say that your dog should be at the top of your guest list, with some considerations.

*See below

Pet Pointers

Check with your venue to see if they allow dogs on the premises
At the Red Barn your pooch may be in the ceremony and stay through Cocktail Hour photos, but must leave once the reception starts. If your venue allows your dog to stay through the entire event then it is up to you to decide how much of a role you’d like your dog to take on. Dogs and food don’t always mix, so you might want to reconsider having your pet stay for the reception. Sorry Rowdy, no prime rib for you.

Really think about your dog’s temperament
Does your dog have socialization issues or crowd anxiety? You never know how even the most well-behaved dog will react in a new environment where the tensions are running high. Rowdy, for example, would run around like a maniac and bark at anything that moves. In addition, your dog should know basic obedience commands and be able to do them with distractions.

Assign your dog a handler and have a plan
You’ll have enough to worry about before the ceremony so it’s important to have someone be responsible for your pup throughout the day, whether you hire a pet-sitter or assign this task to a guest. Think of this person like your doggy event coordinator. They should know the schedule of the day and when and where they need to be at all times.

Be prepared
Set your dog up for success by packing a bag with all their essentials. Be sure to bring along their favorite treats, toys, and other comfort items.

TARA Photography

Expectations vs Reality

Although we love the idea of including dogs in the ceremony it’s not a good fit for every wedding. If you couldn’t tell by now Rowdy won’t be joining me on my wedding day.

Not everyone loves dogs
Ouch it hurt to even type that. But it’s true: some of your guests may not be comfortable around dogs. Even though it’s your wedding day it’s important to be considerate to everyone.

Dogs are messy
Dogs are, well, dogs. They roll in the grass and dig up dirt. This is normal doggy behavior, but on your wedding day all it takes is one jump to leave a muddy streak down the front of your wedding dress.

Dogs may not cooperate
You have manage your expectations and be realistic about your dog’s behavior. They might bark, jump up on guests, or knock things over (Rowdy, looking at you). Halfway down the aisle they might go rogue. All dogs are perfect, but sometimes they are better left at home.

Aubrey Green Photography

Other Ways to Include Your Dog In Your Wedding

Even if you decide not to have your dog attend your wedding, there are other ways you can include them in the festivities.

First look
Take photos with your pup before your other guests arrive. This offers a more controlled, less stressful environment.

Engagement Shoot
Including your dog in your engagement session with your photographer is another great way to show them off. You can then use the photos in your invitations, or print them off and display them on the wedding day.

A Doggy Favor
Provide your guests with a bag of treats to take home to their furry friends as a favor or make a donation to a local animal rescue in your name.

Whether you bring your pooch along with you on your wedding day or show off your love to them in other ways, including your dog is another way to make your wedding day unique to you.

Now everyone look at this good girl.

Rowdy on the day I adopted her from the NHSPCA on May 17, 2012