5 Tips to Have Your Dog at Your Wedding

5 Tips to Have a Dog at Your Wedding

11/6/2018

Who doesn't love seeing dogs go down the aisle when their parents get married? I would bet that even cat-people think it's adorable! So if your venue allows your dog to join in on the fun, are you going to have him/her be there? If so, here are some ways to prepare to make the most out of having your dog at your wedding!

If you didn't already know, I'm studying Pre-Veterinary. Yeah, it's kinda weird that I'm a florist, but hey, I'm multi-passionate. When I adopted my own dog, JoJo, I became fascinated with dog behavior. We didn't adopt her until after we were married, otherwise, she would have definitely participated on our big day! Although most dog owners would probably think it would be too much stress to bring along your furry friend, it doesn't have to be! Here are my tips and tricks to make sure you and your dog are stress free on wedding day!

1. Training

Make sure your dog is a pro at the basics like sit, stay, and come. Being potty-trained is also a must. Nobody wants to clean up a little accident on wedding day. You should also test how your dog reactes in crowds like at farmer's markets or family reunions to see if they can behave with all the stimulation.

2. Have a Dog Sitter

Your wedding day is going to be a little crazy. (Surprised?) You might be too occupied to remember that your dog needs a potty break, food, or water. So appoint a dog-wrangler. They should not be someone in the wedding party like a bridesmaid or groomsman because they will most likely be pretty distracted. Get your second cousin who is a little dog-crazy to be in charge of your pup. Give the dog-sitter a copy of the wedding itinerary with notes about when your dog should be given potty or food breaks.

3. Have a Dog Space

Make sure there is a designated space away from the crowd where your dog can take a break. If he/she is crate trained, make sure to bring their kennel. If they don't usually sleep in a kennel, bring their bed and toys to give them a piece of home. The dog space can be in a dressing room or storage space where vendors and the crowd will not disturb your pup. Make sure to put them in the dog space during dinner, dancing, or when things get too stimulating.

4. Schedule Dog Moments

Dog moments are when your photographer can capture all the cuteness. These are moments like your dog bringing the rings down the aisle, or getting a special treat during the cake cutting. Talk with your photographer and get creative! Don't be afraid if your dog is not perfectly posed during these photo-opts. The more candid, the better!

5. Know Your Dog's Limits

If your dog is nervous or extra excited in crowds, anxious when separated, or lacking manners, it is perfectly fine to leave them home on wedding day. They don't understand the meaning of all the excitement and nerves, so they may act differently than at home. Make sure to test them in crowds like at farmer's markets or family reunions to see if they can behave with all of the stimulation. You can bring your dog to your bridals, first-look, and formal pictures for a less distracting environment.
Yesenya and Danny did formals after their wedding, so their two fur-babies could be included.

Bonus Tip: Keep things Stress-Free

Did you know dogs can sense YOUR stress? When you are stressed out, you smell differently. This can cause them to be stressed-out, too! Dogs get anxious when you seem "threatened". To keep wedding day stress-free whether your dog is coming along or staying home, keep things as normal and relaxing as possible. Both you and the pup should exercise the day before to get out that pent up energy. And obviously, eat lots of treats!

Did you bring your dog along for your wedding? Or maybe a different furry friend? Comment below with your tips to keep tails wagging!