{"id":339815,"date":"2023-03-27T12:23:49","date_gmt":"2023-03-27T11:23:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/whimsicalwonderlandweddings.com\/?p=339815"},"modified":"2024-10-03T10:38:32","modified_gmt":"2024-10-03T09:38:32","slug":"dogs-at-weddings","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wedissimo.com\/blog\/dogs-at-weddings\/","title":{"rendered":"Dogs At Weddings – 16 Ideas & Tips For Including Your Pooch"},"content":{"rendered":"

Is your fur baby a part of your wedding VIP guest list? But you aren\u2019t quite sure just how to include your dog at your wedding or if you even can?<\/p>\n

Fret not, my ultimate guide to having dogs at weddings<\/strong> is here. With inspirational images of the sweetest pooches as well as top tips on how to care for your pup guests.<\/p>\n

Important Considerations For Dogs At Weddings<\/h2>\n

1. Provide Drinking Water<\/h3>\n

Ensure your furry guests are kept hydrated with fresh water bowls stationed in practical areas.<\/p>\n

\"Dogs Photo: Megan Duffield<\/a> via Meadows Norfolk Wedding<\/a> Flowers: Bracken and Twine<\/a><\/p>\n

2. Bring Along Dog Food<\/h3>\n

If your dog is going to be at your wedding, think about their usual feeding times. If they are going to be at your wedding during their typical mealtime, don\u2019t forget to bring their regular food. Treats will always go down well too.<\/p>\n

\"Dog Photo: Paige Mary Photography<\/a> via Italian Wedding Ideas<\/a><\/p>\n

3. Consider The Weather<\/h3>\n

Is your wedding outdoors? Or perhaps the forecast is particularly cold, wet or really hot on your big day? Think about how you can care for pooches in all conditions.<\/p>\n

Dogs can struggle in hot weather, shady, cool spots for them will be ideal. In cold or poor weather, shelter and warm spaces are going to work well. That being said, if the weather just isn\u2019t going to be suitable for your pet, think about keeping them home for the day.<\/p>\n

\"Dog Photo: Caroline Opacic Photography<\/a> via Dark Pink Wedding Ideas<\/a><\/p>\n

4. Create Resting Spots<\/h3>\n

Why not bring your dog’s pet bed for a room corner where they can retreat for a well-deserved nap? Or to sleep for the evening if they like to get their kip.<\/p>\n

\"Dogs Photo: Maria Madison<\/a> via Beach Wedding UK<\/a><\/p>\n

5. Can Your Dog Tolerate Loud Noise?<\/h3>\n

You know your pet best, so if your wedding party is set to be loud and riotous, it may be worth having them collected in the evening. Or find a quiet place for them to find some peace and quiet.<\/p>\n

\"Dogs Photo: Linda Pauline<\/a> via Greenery White Wedding Ideas<\/a><\/p>\n

6. Time For Walkies<\/h3>\n

It\u2019s always a good idea to try and stick to your pup’s typical routines. The same goes for your wedding day, if they need walking and exercise, try to include this in your wedding day timeline.<\/p>\n

\"Dogs Photo: Ideal Imaging Photography<\/a> via Bluebell Wood Wedding<\/a> Florist: Buds Floristry<\/a><\/p>\n

7. Toys or No Toys?<\/h3>\n

Bringing toys or chewing toys may be a good way to keep your pet calm and entertained. However, you won\u2019t want them too hyped up, so you may need to ensure you have plenty of outside space to burn off energy and keep disruption for other guests at a minimum.<\/p>\n

\"Dogs Photo: Lily Lane Photography<\/a> via Bohemian Greenery Wedding Ideas Woods<\/a><\/p>\n

8. Bathroom Breaks<\/h3>\n

Ahem, you know what I am talking about. Those toilet trips! Think about where dogs can be taken to for their ones and twos that won\u2019t leave unsightly smells or views for guests. It goes without saying to ask the landowner’s permission and clean up after your dog too.<\/p>\n

\"Pet Photo: Photography By Petrina<\/a> via Moon Wedding Ideas<\/a><\/p>\n

9. Dog Sitter or Chaperone<\/h3>\n

It\u2019s a great idea to hire a dog sitter or chaperone to take care of your dog throughout your wedding. They can even groom your pet, bring it to and from your venue as well as take care of all their needs for the duration of your celebrations.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s a good idea to think about hiring a professional so you can fully relax and your wedding party can also let their hair down.<\/p>\n

\"Dogs Photo: Megan Duffield<\/a> via Meadows Norfolk Wedding<\/a> Flowers: Bracken and Twine<\/a><\/p>\n

10. Ceremony Or<\/em> Reception<\/h3>\n

It may be you\u2019d like your pooch at one part of your wedding day, or all of it. Have a look at your wedding day timeline and see where would suit best for them to come along to say hi.<\/p>\n

\"Dogs Photo: Vicky Plum Photography<\/a> via Pet Wedding Ideas<\/a> Dachshund Bandanas; Creative Dog Bandanas<\/a><\/p>\n

11. Venue Permissions<\/h3>\n

If your dog being a part of your day is non-negotiable, be sure to find a pet-friendly wedding venue. If you\u2019ve already booked your day, be sure to speak with them first and seek permission before bringing them along.<\/p>\n

\"Dog Photo: Emma Louise Photography via Moroccan Wedding Ideas<\/a><\/p>\n

12. Guest Allergies & Fears<\/h3>\n

It’s important to remember that not everyone feels comfortable or confident around dogs. Some guests may even have a fear of dogs. It\u2019s also worth considering if any guests have pet allergies.<\/p>\n

You could put a note in your wedding invites or on your wedding website if you are planning on having your dog join your day. That way guests are aware. You could also mention getting in touch if they have any concerns so you can adapt and accommodate them.<\/p>\n

You know your pet best and if they are confident and calm with large groups of people. Go with your gut instinct.<\/p>\n

\"Dogs Photo: Gina Fernandes Photography<\/a> via Navy Gold Wedding Ideas<\/a> Dog Outfit: Tuna & Bear<\/p>\n

13. Dressing Your Pooch For The Occasion<\/h3>\n

You may or may not be a fan of dressing up your pup. You don\u2019t have to dress your dog in outfits, you could consider pet-safe flowers or foliage on their accessories. Such as their harness, lead or collar.<\/p>\n

You could even treat them to a new lead or collar rather than decorate it. Of course, there are too many cute outfits for dogs available that may suit the occasion too.<\/p>\n

\"Dogs Photo: Maribel Farina Photography<\/a> via Art Painting Wedding Ideas<\/a> Florist: Hearts and Honey Do Events<\/p>\n

14. Give Your Dog A Role<\/h3>\n

Give your fur baby a special wedding day role, here are some ideas:<\/p>\n