Why You Should Bring Your Dog to Your Engagement or Wedding Day: Tips & Benefits

Why You SHOULD Bring Your Dog to Your Engagement or Wedding Day!
When it comes to your engagement or wedding day, I get it you want to include the one that’s been by your side through thick and thin—your furry best friend! Having your dog there can add a whole new level of joy, personality, and authenticity to your celebration. Trust me, my dogs feel like my children and I couldn’t imagine our big day without them!

Here’s why you should consider bringing your dog to your engagement or wedding day—because they’re a part of your love story too! 🐾💍

1. They’re Part of Your Love Story

Your dog has been there through the highs and lows, comforting you on bad days and celebrating with you on the good ones. They’re an essential part of your journey, and your wedding or engagement is a celebration of all that love. Including them is a great way to symbolize how they’ve been there for the start of your journey together and will continue to be a part of your growing family.

2. They Make for Cute and Memorable Photos

Nothing says “joy” like a pup’s wagging tail or a playful expression. Having your dog with you on your wedding day can bring out some of the most genuine, heartwarming moments that make for unforgettable photos. From sweet puppy kisses during engagement photos to adorable moments in your wedding portraits, they’ll bring out the authenticity and love in every shot.

Pro Tip: Assign someone to be your doggie assistant!

If you’re planning to have your dog at your wedding or engagement shoot, be sure to have a trusted friend or family member ready to look after them during the ceremony or key moments. This way, you can ensure they’re happy and safe without any stress!

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

3. It’s a Fun Element of the Day

Your wedding day is full of fun, and what better way to add some extra joy and laughter than with your dog’s playful presence? Whether they’re wagging their tail during a first look or sporting a cute bowtie during the ceremony, your dog can bring a lighthearted and fun vibe to the day.

Ways to Include your pup!

Include your dog in your wedding day celebration by making them the "Best Girl" or "Best Boy"! You can have them walk down the aisle as the flower pup or ring bearer, adding a cute and personal touch to your ceremony. Get creative with your wedding details by naming a specialty cocktail after them—how fun would it be to have a "Fido’s Fizz" on the menu? You can even surprise your pup with a cake decoration just for them, or a mini dog-friendly cake to enjoy during the celebration! With a little planning, your dog can be part of the day in so many special ways.

4. They Help Ease Nerves

Wedding days can be nerve-wracking, and sometimes having a familiar face (or fur) around can help calm those pre-ceremony jitters. The comfort and companionship of your dog can remind you of the simple joys in life and keep you grounded, helping you relax and truly enjoy your day.

5. You Can Include Them in Your Ceremony or Photos

Whether it’s a paw-touched ring bearer moment or a posed family photo, there are endless creative ways to incorporate your dog into your ceremony and photography. You can even design custom accessories, like a flower collar or a mini tuxedo, to make sure they fit right in with the wedding theme.

Make sure to bring their leash

Most wedding venues & engagement locations allow dogs, but they typically require that your pup is on a leash. To keep the leash from standing out in photos, choose a cute collar and leash that complement your outfit. A matching set can help the leash blend seamlessly into your photos.

6. It Makes Your Day More Personal

Your wedding day should reflect who you are as a couple, and that includes all the things and people (furry or not) you love. Bringing your dog along is an easy way to make the day feel more personal and uniquely yours. Plus, you’ll have the added bonus of knowing that they’ll be part of one of your most cherished memories.

Pro Tip: Bring lots of treats & their favorite toy!

Bringing plenty of treats can make a huge difference in getting the best photos of your pups with you! Having a doggie assistant hold treats near the camera is a great way to get their attention and capture those adorable moments. Opt for treats that have a strong scent to them, as it’ll make them extra enticing. If your dog isn’t as food-motivated and loves to play, bring their favorite toy (especially one with a squeaker) to keep them engaged while your assistant holds it near the camera for the perfect shot!

Your dog is more than just a pet—they’re a cherished part of your life and love story. Bringing them to your engagement or wedding day is a meaningful way to celebrate your entire journey together, creating memories and photos you’ll cherish forever. After all, your wedding day is about love in all its forms, and what better way to celebrate than with your loyal companion by your side?


As a dog LOVER, I’m all in! When you bring your dog to your session… it’s game over for me 🐾🥹 I’ll probably spend the first few minutes swooning over your pup (because how could I not?), but then magic happens!

Previous
Previous

Cracking the Wedding Day Photography Code: Why Your Timeline Matters!

Next
Next

Top 10 Engagement Session Nature & Lakeside Locations in Minnesota