Fetching, Begging, and Belly Rubs aren’t words that you usually associate with weddings… unless you are a dog lover. Your wedding day is a big deal, and all your loved ones should be there to witness your “I dos”. Many consider our four-legged companions their loyal friend or fur baby. Your dog may have even known you before your future husband or wife, and knows everything about you — and still loves you unconditionally. Which is the perfect reason why you should pay homage to your pup on your big day. The experts at Chapel of the Flowers are sharing their favorite dog wedding ideas, that you can include during your engagement, ceremony, or reception.
Dog Wedding Ideas
There are so many cute wedding ideas on how to include your dog in your wedding. Whether you have your pooch play bridesmaid, groomsman, or ring bearer; your furry family member will love being a part of the most important day of your life.
First things first, you will need to make sure you are holding your ceremony and reception at a pet-friendly wedding venue. If you booked a venue that allows dogs, then make sure you understand their pet-damage policies. At the end of the day, you are responsible for your fur baby.
Wedding Tip: You will most likely be very busy on your special day. Assign a responsible adult to take care of your fluffball’s needs during the entire day, and make sure they are on their best behavior.
Dog of Honor
Over the past several years, more and more dog lovers are having a “Dog of Honor” or “Best Dog” at their ceremony. So, what does that mean? Is the dog going to throw a bachelor party or bridal shower? Most likely no, but there are some important duties you can give your dog to make them a part of the day.
Dog Wedding Outfits
Have them dress the part and be there for the “I dos”. Here are some adorable attire ideas for your four-legged family member.
Tuxedo for Dogs
Find a tuxedo t-shirt, or suit that your dog will be comfortable in. You don’t want them trying to wiggle out of your outfit.
Dress for Dogs
Photo Credit:
Doggie tutus and dresses are perfect attire options for that little lady in your life. Just make sure that your dame’s attire doesn’t outshine yours.
Wedding Dog Leash & Collars
Photo Credit: OliviasDoggieDesigns
If your pup doesn’t like wearing clothes, let them go au naturel with a bow-tie, tuxedo harness, floral collar, or custom dog leash. There are many Etsy stores that sell custom dog collars and leashes that are perfect for weddings.
Photo Credit: Emily Wren Photography
Photo Credit: Arielle Valenzuela Photography
Fetching Wedding Signs
Photo Credit: Tiffany McClure Photography
Your dog will make a statement, with these funny wedding signs that they can sport as they walk down the aisle.
Dog Wedding Services
Now that you have your “Top Dog” dressed the part, you will need to give them wedding tasks to complete during your ceremony.
Dog Ring Bearer
The most popular wedding job for dogs is to walk down the aisle as the ring bearer (or flower girl). Just make sure the ring is secure and doesn’t get eaten by your furry friend before the ceremony.
Wedding Tip: If you do have a doggie ring bearer, have “fake” rings tied to your dog instead of the real rings… just in case.
Pawsitive Vows
Just like a Maid of Honor or Best Man, your “Best Dog” should be sitting front row or by your side when reciting your wedding vows.
The “First” Walk
Photo Credit: Karlee K Photography
Celebrate your union, with a celebratory “walk” with your dog. They will love to stretch their legs, and you will love the photojournalist style photos that your wedding photographer will capture of your new family.
Dog Wedding Photo Ideas
You could be online for hours looking at adorable wedding photography ideas for dogs. Trust us… we know. Here are just a couple of ideas that make our hearts melt.
Save the Date Dog Photos
Photo Credit: George Street Photo & Video
Your wedding guests will love getting a dog-themed save-the-date. It is also the best way to include your canine in your big announcement.
Pamper Your Pup Photo
Photo Credit: Amalie Orrange Photography
Nothing will be more precious than photos of your best pal getting ready with your Bridesmaids or Groomsmen. Take the opportunity to have your photographer take some photos of you getting ready with your dog.
Sloppy Kisses Photos
Photo Credit: Tracey Buyce Photography
Before you get ready to walk down the aisle. Make sure to get a photo of your fur baby giving you a “good luck” kiss.
Wedding Tip: Ladies do this “good luck” kiss photo opportunity before the final make-up touch-ups, and fellas make sure you bring your lint brush to get all the fur off your tuxedo.
Photo Credit: Rivets & Roses
Dog-Inspired Wedding Reception
They may not make the first toast, but your wedding reception can show hints of appreciation for your most loyal companion. Here are some doggone delightful ways to highlight your pet during your reception.
Dog Table Numbers
Photo Credit: De Lisser Photography
They may not be able to sit at the table, so why not put a photo of your playful pup as the table numbers. Take a photo of them holding the table numbers and frame them for your tables.
Signature “Pup”tail
<Photo Credit: Miss Design Berry
Create a signature cocktail that was inspired by your four-legged family member. Are they playful, spicy, or fancy? Find the perfect mixture of libations that reflects your pooch’s unique personality.
Doggie Bag
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Nothing says dog, like treats. Make a cookie table with “biscuits” for your pup and sweets for the humans. Don’t forget to have “doggie” bags available for your guests to take a couple of cookies home.
Top Dog Cake Topper
Have fun with your wedding cake and add a doggie detail to your cake topper. Whether it is a little figurine next to or on top of the cake, everyone will know the love you have for your little buddy.
Now that you have a couple of ideas to include your most loyal companion in your wedding day, you can start planning. Chapel of the Flowers is a pet-friendly wedding venue that is located in Las Vegas on the world-famous Strip and welcomes dogs (and cats) to witness the union of their owners’ love. Feel free to contact our wedding planners and visit our website for more information about our wedding packages.
