Dogs at Weddings

Most of our wedding clients, who are dog owners, bring up the idea of having their four legged friend present on their wedding day. Your pet is a huge part of your life and it’s only right that you consider your ‘best friend’ when it comes to your big day.

First of all, consider their age and breed of your dog. A crazy collie pup has a very different personality and demeanour to that of an ageing Labrador. You know your dogs limits better than anyone else. Can they sit quietly during the ceremony or are they likely cause a rumpus? Will they pee on the flower girl? The last thing you need is a ‘Fenton’ moment in a wedding dress. You will need to make a straight yes/ no on this and once you have made up your mind – stick with it. Your gut instinct is usually spot on.

Anyway, in many cases your dog doesn’t need to be there all day. There are a few services that will take your pooch away for the weekend. Look after them, bathe them and bring them along to the ceremony location either for the ceremony or for a few pictures just after. Then they will whisk them away and pamper them while you continue to entertain your two legged guests. Could you have a friend or guest at the wedding who can be assigned as ‘dog sitter’? Someone who wont mind occasionally nipping out to “take care of business” Pro tip – find a smoker. Any excuse to pop outside they are always the first volunteer!

Should I dress the dog? Well, I have seen it done. In fact more often or not the dogs have turned up looking rather splendid (see these handsome chaps below) in a box tie or tiny tux. However. Keep in mind that dressing your dog in the same colours as the bridesmaids, may not go down very well with the actual bridesmaids. Tact and diplomacy are key here.

Could they be the ring bearer? Honestly? I’ve never seen it done.
I know it is possible but its maybe just a wee bit too much responsibility to put on furry shoulders. Keep in mind that your pet will be super happy to see you and that there will be many distracting sounds and smells, even on the shortest of aisles. Having them walk down the aisle may work but make sure you have treats to keep them happy during the ceremony itself. I also wrote a much shorter guide on bringing your cat to your wedding entitled “Please Just Don’t”

If you would to see more weddings with dogs then please check out Chris and Nicolas weddings at Kirknewton Stables. Not only a super dog friendly venue but one of the nicest venues I have ever visited.

What are your plans for your dog when you get married? Or have you already come up with a genius plan?
I’d love to hear from you Oh, and finally check with the venue. They might be super dog friendly and have some great ideas themselves, or they may not be as keen. It’s best to check in with them first to save any awkwardness on the day.

If you are still unsure about taking fur baby to the wedding, then why not book and engagement shoot with us first? Then we can test out your dogs patience and mood in front of the camera and (naturally) take some beautiful pet portraits at the same time. One one occasion I have had the bride put her dress back on a few weeks after the wedding for a wedding / pet portrait mash up.