1. Walk Down the Aisle
Whether they love being the centre of attention or prefer a quieter role, here are five of the most popular and practical ideas to make them a part of your celebration.
Few moments are more touching than watching your dog trot down the aisle. They can walk alongside a bridesmaid, groomsman, or even a flower girl. If you are worried about them getting distracted by guests, do not panic. With a bit of pre-wedding training and support from our professional chaperones, we will ensure they arrive wagging their tail and ready to melt hearts.
2. The Furry Ring Bearer
Dogs make wonderful ring bearers, provided it is done safely! We always recommend using a secure replica pouch or a decorative ring cushion securely attached to a comfortable harness, whilst the Best Man holds the real rings. This way, your pup can confidently carry out their duties without the risk of an expensive mishap. We will be right there by their side to ensure everything runs smoothly.
3. Star in the Wedding Photos
There is no denying that dogs bring out natural, relaxed smiles and create unforgettable, candid moments in photos. From perfectly posed portraits with the happy couple to catching them mingling with the bridal party, your furry friend adds immense personality and warmth to your wedding album. Our team are experts at gaining a dog’s attention, helping your photographer focus solely on capturing the magic.
4. The VIP Guest of Honour
Not every dog wants to take centre stage or walk down an aisle, and that is absolutely fine. Your pup can still be present as a very important guest, offering cuddles, tail wags, and a calming presence throughout the drinks reception. It is a wonderful way to include them without adding any pressure to perform a specific “job.”
5. The After Party Guest
For some dogs, particularly those who are easily overwhelmed, the formal ceremony might be too stressful. Instead, let them join you later in the afternoon or early evening when the formalities are over and the atmosphere is more relaxed. They can still be part of the celebration, just at a pace that perfectly suits their temperament.
How Waggy Weddings Can Help
Pro tip: When you are exploring ways to include your dog in your wedding, relying on friends or family to manage them can cause unnecessary stress. Using a professional wedding dog chaperone service like Waggy Weddings means your pup is cared for by qualified behaviourists from start to finish. We handle the logistics, so you can simply relax and enjoy every single moment of your special day. Contact us today to discuss your plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to have my dog as the ring bearer?
Yes, absolutely! However, we always recommend attaching the rings to a secure replica pouch or using fake rings on the dog’s collar, whilst the Best Man keeps the real rings safely in his pocket. This prevents any disasters if your dog decides to go for a sudden roll in the grass or shake off their collar.
What if my dog barks during the ceremony?
Weddings are highly stimulating, and it is natural for some dogs to vocalise. If you use a professional chaperone, they will be positioned discreetly near the aisle. If your dog becomes unsettled or vocal, the chaperone can quickly and quietly remove them from the ceremony room without causing a scene or interrupting your vows.
How can I include my dog if the venue is strictly no pets?
If your venue has a strict no-pets policy, do not panic! You can still include your dog in your wedding photos. We often arrange to meet couples at a nearby park, a local beauty spot, or even outside the church grounds before or after the ceremony for a dedicated, beautiful photoshoot.