Dogs at Weddings: Photo Tips For Including Dogs at Your Wedding
delightful photos of dogs at Weddings
If you want my honest answer to including dogs at weddings, you don’t need to ask me twice. Do it! Your furry friends are your family and deserve to be involved. And that doesn’t necessarily mean them being physically there if it’s not possible. Keep reading to find out.
Whether they’re walking you down the aisle, playing ring bearer, or just showing up for a few portraits and head pats, dogs at weddings bring heart, humour, and a lovely dose of unpredictability. I’ve photographed a fair few pup-filled celebrations, and here’s what I’ve learnt: dogs keep you grounded. They remind you to be present. And they make everything feel more real. If weddings were too perfect, they’d be boring. Those unpredictable moments are actually the best ones! Here’s how to make it work for both you and your furry friend.
1. Give them a role – Dogs as part of the wedding party
Many couples choose to make their dog the ring bearer, or have them walk down the aisle with a bridesmaid or usher. You could even walk down the aisle together – my own wife did, and it was one of the highlights of the day.
If you’re not sure about a formal role, no pressure – just having them present is special enough. You could dress them in a bow tie, flower crown, or full-on peacock outfit (yes, I did this with one of my dogs!).
2. have a dedicated doggy sitter!
This one’s essential. Have a doggy chaperone or sitter for the day. It could be a friend, family member, or a pro – but make sure someone’s responsible for their care.
You can even share the responsibility between a few people if needed. At my own wedding, we had our dogs around in the morning for all the fun and cuddles, then they were taken away mid-afternoon by our sitter to chill out.
Many dog-friendly venues offer on-site accommodation, which means they could pop back for a nap and return later – if they’re up for it.
Think about what suits your dog best. Some, like the lovely Penny, the chocolate lab at last year’s Eaves Hall wedding – are chilled all day. But others are a bit more sensitive to noise and stimulation – they may even sing – yep that’s my dog, check him out doing his thing here!
Need a professional dog Chaperone?
If you are in need of a chaperone – I’d look no further than Liz who runs Noble Pooch – she is a proper dog lover and will treat your beloved pooch with the same affection and care as her own pets. You can find her instagram page here too.
3. Let your guests know
This one’s often overlooked – but letting your guests know there’ll be a dog at the wedding helps set expectations. It’s especially helpful for anyone with allergies, nerves around dogs, or kids who might get very excited. Like too excited.
A heads-up also avoids any awkward surprises if your dog trots down the aisle mid-vows!
4. Pack a doggy day bag
Simple but vital. Bring the essentials:
- Lead, collar, or harness
- Poo bags
- Water bowl and bottle
- Favourite food or treats
- Toys
- Bed or blanket
- Towel (especially at outdoor venues)
Comfort goes a long way in keeping your dog happy and settled.
5. All about those photos! How Dogs at Weddings Help Create Natural Photo Moments
Look guys, let’s be real, one of the main reasons you’re including your furry friend at your wedding is those unforgettable moments that they will provide. Having them there for you couple photos takes the pressure off, especially if you’re camera-shy. You’ll have a focus and feel less self conscious.
They’re great in engagement shoots too. You’re doing something, not just standing still. So that relaxed energy comes across in the pictures.
And even if they can’t be there on the day, you can still include them with things such as:
Signature cocktails named after them
Custom beer labels with their name
Dog-themed favours like limoncello or biscuits
Illustrations on invites
Venues That Welcome Dogs at Weddings
I’ve photographed some lovely venues that fully embrace four-legged guests:
Other venues that embrace dogs at weddings:
- Wyresdale Park
- Cockley Wood
- The Oakwood at Ryther
- The Wellbeing Farm
- Thicket Priory
- The Angel Inn – Topcliffe
Know another good one? Let me know –
I’m always up for discovering more dog-loving wedding venues.
Final Thoughts
Having your dog at your wedding doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of planning, they’ll feel like a special part of the day – without you needing to micromanage a thing.
Just remember: weddings aren’t about perfection. They’re about feeling. Presence. Personality.
Dogs bring all of that – plus a few muddy paws and the odd bark during the speeches.
Got questions about how to include your pup in the plans? Get in touch and I’ll see if I can help! In the meantime, check out some more of my favourite doggy pics below:
