How to Include Your Pet in Your Wedding (Without the Chaos)
So you want to include your dog, cat, or emotional support chinchilla in your wedding—and honestly, i understand
They’re family.
They’ve been there through every late-night breakdown, awkward vendor meeting, and cake sample meltdown.
Of course they deserve a seat at the table (or at least a sniff of the flower girl).
But here’s the thing: weddings are loud, long, and filled with strange smells, emotional people, and things that look like chew toys (but are actually $300 floral centerpieces).
So before you picture your pup gracefully walking down the aisle with your rings, let’s go over a few realistic ways to include your pet.
1. Pick a Role That Won’t Stress Them Out (or You)
Not every pet is born for the spotlight.
Some are chill enough to walk down the aisle in a floral collar.
Others will absolutely lose their minds at the sight of 80 clapping humans and run full speed into your grandma’s lap.
Options that usually work:
Ring bearer (on a leash, with supervision)
Flower dog (throwing petals = optional)
VIP guest (just sitting cute with someone in the front row)
Cameo in your portraits only (no crowds, no chaos)
What doesn’t work: Expecting them to sit still for 6 hours and behave like a Pinterest dog.
Let’s be real.
2. Pick Their Person for the Day
Your pet needs a handler. Not a vague “someone will watch them” plan.
An actual human being whose only job is to care for your fur baby from start to finish.
Things this person should be:
Calm
Responsible
Not wearing heels
Preferably someone your pet knows
Trust me—you don’t want your bestie juggling a bouquet and a barking dachshund.
3. Confirm Your Venue Is Actually Pet-Friendly
Some venues are like,
“Oh yeah, dogs are fine!”—and then change their tune when your labradoodle pees on a boxwood hedge.
Double check:
Are pets allowed on-site (not just outside)?
Do they need to be on a leash?
Is there a quiet space where they can hang out during the reception?
If your venue says no, don’t panic.
You can always include your pet in engagement photos or get-ready pics instead.
Way less pressure.
4. Do a Mini Rehearsal With Your Pet
Yes, this is real. If your pet is walking down the aisle, practice it.
Put them in their little outfit, play the music, and let them walk the path.
The more familiar it feels, the less likely they are to panic and bolt toward the buffet.
Bonus tip: Test their outfit ahead of time too.
If they try to eat it, scratch it, or dramatically flop onto the floor in protest… maybe skip the outfit.
5. Pack Them a Wedding Day Bag
Your pet needs a day-of bag just like you do.
Pack it like you’re their assistant:
Leash + harness
Water + bowl
Treats
Poop bags (non-negotiable)
Favorite toy
A lint roller (for you, not them)
A little prep = fewer surprises = less chance of a mid-ceremony poop emergency.
6. Let Them Make a Quick Exit
This is so key.
Your pet does not need to party all night.
Let them shine during the ceremony or photo hour, then have someone take them home to relax like the royalty they are.
The reception is loud, overstimulating, and full of tripping hazards.
Don’t make them suffer through your cousin’s 3-minute maid of honor rap.
7. Keep Their Outfit Cute and Comfortable
A tiny bowtie? Adorable.
A floral collar? We love.
A full tuxedo with a top hat? That’s a no from me.
If your pet’s outfit makes them uncomfortable, they will 100% try to escape it on camera—and not in a cute rom-com way.
Keep it simple, soft, and breathable. Comfort > aesthetics.
Final Thought:
Even if your pet barks at the officiant or tries to eat the ring box, you’ll survive.
It’s a memory. It’s yours.
It’s funny in five minutes (or ten). And your guests will love it.
Your pet doesn’t have to be perfect.
They just have to be there—if that feels right for you.
And if it doesn’t?
That’s okay too.
They’ll still love you when you get home, confetti in your hair and all.
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