DOGS AT WEDDINGS: THEY’RE FAMILY, NOT A TREND
Dogs at weddings are never “just a trend” to us.
If you’re planning a wedding with your dog, we’re probably going to get along very well.
Some people can’t picture their wedding day without their dog, and honestly, we’re exactly the same. For us, dogs are family. They are with us for the everyday stuff, the good stuff, the bad stuff, and the messy stuff. Dogs know their people better than most humans do. So having them with you on the day you say “yes” just makes total sense (if they can handle it, obviously!).
PLANNING A WEDDING WITH YOUR DOG
(WITHOUT THE STRESS)
The idea of having your dog at your wedding is amazing. In your head, you can probably already see them being a huge part of the story of your day.
They might be there while you’re getting ready.
They might walk down the aisle delivering the rings (or steal the show trying!).
They’ll almost definitely try to grab some attention. And rightly so!
And of course, they belong in your family photos.
If having your dog there is important, it’s okay to prioritise that. Whether that means choosing a venue that truly welcomes them, adjusting timelines to their needs, or planning extra photo time. It’s your day and if it matters to you, it matters.
There’s no one “right” way to do it, just the way that works best for you and your dog.
You know your dog better than anyone. If it feels right to include them, it probably is. If it feels like it might be too much for them, that’s just as valid too.
If you want your day to be enjoyable for everyone, especially them (of course you do, your dog is your baby, right?), a little bit of planning goes a long way.
The biggest question you need to ask yourself first is: will they actually enjoy what I’ve planned for them?
Some dogs love people, noise, and being in the middle of everything. Others… not so much. And that’s okay. If your dog would find it overwhelming, there are still ways to include them in your day without them being there the whole time.
If you want your dog to come along to your day,
here are a few things that really help:
Check if your venue is truly dog-friendly
Not all venues are dog-friendly in the same way. Some only allow dogs in certain areas, some have some restrictions during food service, and some are genuinely relaxed about it all. It’s always a good idea to check the exact rules before booking the venue. Especially, if having your dog at the wedding is a must for you.
Visit the venue together
If possible, take your dog for a stroll around the venue before the big day. It will give them a chance to get familiar with the space beforehand, and that can make a huge difference.
Dog-friendly accommodation
Check if your venue has dog-friendly rooms on site. This would be super convenient if you would like your dog there all day. Crowds, music, confetti, kids running around, weddings can be a lot for. A quiet space where they can snooze and chill in between the exciting moments will be incredibly helpful.
Have a designated dog person
Someone your dog knows and trusts who can take care of them throughout the day: walks, water, breaks, and an exit plan when they’ve had enough. This means you can fully enjoy your wedding without worrying about them too much.
Book a professional wedding dog chaperone
If everyone you know and trust will be busy celebrating with you, a professional wedding dog chaperone is a great option. They’ll take care of everything your dog needs on the day: from transport and walks to calming them in busy moments. It means your dog is properly looked after, included in all the important parts, and happy without any added stress on you or your guests.
Keep their routine in mind
Dogs don’t suddenly understand weddings. Feeding times, walks, and downtime still matter. Sticking as closely as possible to their normal routine helps keep them calm and comfortable.
Keep expectations realistic
Maybe they walk perfectly down the aisle… maybe they sit, wander, or stop to say hallo to guests first. And that’s okay. Those imperfect, slightly chaotic moments? They’re often the ones you’ll love the most.
Bring the essentials (and then some)
Water, treats, a lead, poo bags, and something familiar that smells like home, like a blanket or favourite toy, will make a huge difference in a busy, unfamiliar environment. If your dog is going to be around for a while, think about food, a bowl, and a towel for muddy paws (because… it will happen). It might feel like over-preparing, but on a wedding day, that little bit of extra thought goes a very long way.
Fresh flowers
If you’re planning to include fresh flowers in your dog’s outfit, make sure they are dog-safe. Some flowers can be toxic, so it’s always worth double-checking with your florist. And if your dog is the kind who might try to sneak a bite (no judgement here), it’s probably best to avoid anything potentially harmful altogether.
Let your suppliers know
Your planner, photographer (hopefully us), venue, even your florist. It helps when everyone knows your dog is part of the plan. It means people can adapt, be mindful, and sometimes even help out without you needing to ask.
Anxious pup?
If you think your dog might not be able to handle the wedding day pressure, you can always plan a short visit. Just enough time to include them in your family portraits and a few relaxed moments with just the two of you. Another really great option is including your dog in a pre-wedding shoot or an after-wedding session. That way, you can wear your outfits again (yay!), take your time, and get some beautiful, stress-free photos together. Sometimes this can even happen back at your venue.
PHOTOGRAPHING DOGS THE WAY THEY DESERVE
When choosing your photographer, look for someone who doesn’t just tolerate dogs, but genuinely loves photographing them and has real experience doing it.
Dogs can be excitable, nervous, muddy, distracted… sometimes all at once. Having someone who understands that, and knows how to keep things relaxed and natural without forcing moments, makes a huge difference. Sometimes that means making slightly ridiculous noises to get their attention. Sometimes it means sitting on the floor and letting them sniff (and lick!) the camera first.
Most importantly, your photographer should understand that dogs are living beings, not robots. They most likely won’t be perfectly trained or endlessly obedient, and they don’t need to be. The best photos don’t come from control or forcing them into something they’re not comfortable with. They come from patience, understanding, and letting your dog be themselves.
Let’s be clear about one thing. Dogs at weddings are not a prop or a trend.
They’re family. And they deserve to be treated that way by your photographer and by everyone involved in your day.
IF YOUR DOG IS COMING, WE’RE ALREADY EXCITED
We’re wedding photographers who genuinely love dogs.
Not in a fake marketing way, but in a “we’ll happily let your dog sniff us and our camera before we start” kind of way. We photograph weddings and we photograph dogs.
When we get to combine the two, it’s honestly the best thing ever.
So if your dog is on the guest list, and you’re looking for a photographer who really gets it…
Let’s be friends!
