Top Tips For Dogs at Weddings
Top Tips For Dogs at Weddings
Wedding Tips
dogs are not just pets, they are members of the family.
Dogs at weddings are becoming increasingly popular, as more couples are choosing to include their beloved pets in their special day. After all, dogs are not just pets, they are members of the family.
And just like any other guest, it’s important to make sure your dog is comfortable and has a great time at your wedding.
As a wedding photographer based in Hampshire I love embracing weddings where couples are true to themselves and do what they want to do on their wedding day! And if that means including your dog at your wedding day, then you absolutely do you! (Other animals can also be included – ask me for ideas how!)
So, here are my top tips for dogs at weddings for a pawsome party – you can make sure your canine companion is well taken care of on your big day.
Top Tips For Dogs at Weddings
– Preparing a Safe Haven for Your Canine Companion
– Making the Most Out of Engagement Sessions
– The Benefits of Hiring a Dedicated Dog Sitter
– Keeping Your Dog Active and Happy on Your Big Day
– Providing Appropriate Food and Drink for Your Pooch
– Including Your Dog in the Celebration Without Overstimulating Them
– Dedicate Your Wedding Cake to Your Dog
Preparing a Safe Haven for Your Canine Companion
Let’s talk about creating a safe space for your dog on your big day. We all know that weddings can be a bit overwhelming, even for humans. So, imagine how your dog must feel amidst the busyness!
First things first, look for dog-friendly wedding venues and when you’re viewing wedding venues, ask what their dog policy is. Some allow free range whereas others are only allow animals in certain areas so it’s good to know up front how and where your pet will fit into the day. (If your venue isn’t dog-friendly, don’t worry, I have some tips coming up for you!).
Next, let’s talk about attire. Dressing up your dog in a tiara may be cute, but let’s not forget about their comfort. If you want to dress them for the day and they don’t mind dressing up, then perhaps you may choose to opt for a dog wedding suit or outfit – check ahead of the wedding that it allows them to move around freely and doesn’t cause any discomfort. Or perhaps, a more classic approach by matching them to the wedding party. From floral collars that match your buttonholes to bow ties and bandanas in matching colours, the options are endless!
Lastly, don’t forget to include your dog in your wedding photos! They are, after all, a part of the family, and you’ll thank me for giving you all some time out together. Your dog will feel reassured, and their confidence will skyrocket while they are by your side. (And whilst I’ll try not to let your furry friend steal the spotlight, I make no promises!)
Remember, your dog is a VIP at your wedding, and it’s important to ensure they can feel comfortable and enjoy themselves.
Making the Most Out of Engagement Sessions
Sometimes it isn’t possible for dogs at weddings because of the venue rules, they themselves may find it too stressful or for other reasons entirely. Don’t worry, there’s still a way to include them in all the fun!
Consider booking an engagement session and including your dog. This way, we can capture some adorable moments with them before the big day. Get them all dolled up in their special wedding attire, or just come as you and they are, either way there’s no doubt they will steal the limelight. Your engagement session will be relaxed and fun and your furry friend will feel like a true VIP. Plus, you will have photos that I promise you now, you will treasure.
Your engagement session will be relaxed and fun and your furry friend will have a great time, being showered with attention, enjoying many strokes and cuddles, and the odd treat too!
The Benefits of Hiring a Dedicated Dog Sitter
When it comes to dogs at weddings, having a dedicated dog sitter takes all the worry out of your day, knowing that there is a someone there to take care of all your dog’s needs. This might be a family member or friend who knows your dog well, your dog walker or a hired professional. Whoever you choose, pass the responsibility along and enjoy time at your wedding, without worrying about picking up after a certain someone…
From keeping them calm during the ceremony to taking them on leisurely walks, having someone on dog duty can provide the care and attention that they deserves.
Keeping Your Dog Active and Happy on Your Big Day
This is actually an add on from the previous point about having a dedicated pup-sitter!
We all know that dogs have a lot of energy, and weddings can be quite a long and tiring affair. So, when it comes to dogs at weddings, it is crucial to keep your pet active and happy throughout the day.
Plan for them to have to opportunity for breaks in between the festivities to go for a short walk, toilet break, a play, some fuss and one on one time. This will help them release any pent-up energy as well as stop any mischievous behaviour from creeping in. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to include your dog in your wedding photos! Just imagine those wonderful shots of your dog running across the field with a big smile on their face.
Make sure to plan some one on one time into your wedding day itinerary. Your dog will thank you for it, and you will have some unforgettable memories to cherish for years to come.
Providing Appropriate Food and Drink for Your Pooch
Just like humans, dogs at weddings deserve to be well fed. But let’s not go overboard with a full-course menu, and of course make sure any food shared is safe.
Keep it simple. You may want to have a bowl of treats. Or you might set up a doggy buffet with some tasty treats and snacks, like pupcakes, dog-friendly biscuits, to some delicious delicacies like chicken and veg. Whatever works for you, your dog, and your day. Be sure they don’t over indulge, or pick up scraps and crumbs elsewhere though.
Don’t forget to provide plenty of fresh water to keep your pup hydrated.
Including Your Dog in the Celebration Without Overstimulating Them
Let’s get this paw-ty started! When including your dog in the celebration, it’s important to keep their excitement in check and avoid overstimulation. While we all love a party animal, a hyperactive dog running around may not be the best addition to the dance floor.
Dogs need to sleep anything between 12-20 hours a day depending on age, health and the activity. Without appropriate downtime your pup will get overtired and stressed. Instead, create a designated area for dogs at weddings to chill out and recharge. Provide comfy blankets, toys, and maybe even a doggy treat station.
For some dogs though, attending an entire wedding day is too much. In which case, you can plan in an agreed time for them to attend, and a time and person to take them home. It may feel disappointing ‘only’ having them for the ceremony and photos, but by putting their needs and wellbeing first you are ensuring they are in a for a happy, stress free day.
Dedicate Your Wedding to Your Dog
Having your dog at your wedding may not be an option. But don’t worry, I have got some ideas to include them in spirit!
One option is to have a wedding cake dedicated to your dog – you could add a topper with their face on it. This way, your canine companion will still have a special place at your wedding, even if they can’t physically be there.
Why not have photos of them on the tables and mixed in with the decor, so people get to spot their gorgeous face throughout the day? (Or lets level this up and get a life size cut out that can pop up throughout the day – imagine the photos!)
Another option is to create stickers of that fluffy face for confetti bags or name places.
I promise I have endless ideas, so simply ask and we can come up with the perfect way to include your furry best friend.
Wrap-up and Final Woofs
Well, it’s time to wrap up my top tips for dogs at weddings for a pawsome party. I hope you found these tips helpful in ensuring your dog has a fantastic time on your big day.
From creating a safe space at your venue to including them in your wedding photos, there are plenty of ways to make your pup feel like part of your wedding story.
After all, weddings are meant to be a celebration of love, and that includes your dog. Don’t forget to have all of these memories and details captured on camera for you to look back. I am a wedding photographer based in Hampshire – get in touch today!
