10 Tips for Having your Dog at Your Wedding
10 Tips for Having your Dog at Your Wedding
Prepare them
Take them to dog-friendly places where they will be exposed to a good amount of people. Ease them into it, especially if they’re not used to large crowds, tons of noise, or a lot of commotion. Dogs need social interaction too!
Practice with them
There are a TON of distractions if they are going to be your ring bearer or flower girl. Practice walking down the aisle with them and keeping people from trying to distract them! Especially if your dog sees someone they love sitting by the aisle at your wedding. You wanna be sure they’ll come to you, and only you.
Have a lot of treats available
Dogs are very reward-driven, and who doesn’t love a treat for being a good boy or girl?? You definitely want to have their favorite nibbles on hand, because not only is it a surefire way to get them to listen, but it’s just fair that they get a little treat for their awesome performance!
Have a place they can decompress
Just like people, dogs need somewhere to just be calm. They aren’t really going to fully understand what’s going on, so the best thing is to make sure there’s a place for them to get some one-on-one time with you and to get away from all the hustle and bustle.
Maybe just bring them for a photo op
Have you seen the couples who do a cute first look with their fur baby? Not only is it a great way to get some cute pics with your pup, but it’s also a much calmer environment with the people they love the most. Plus, if you’ve got an especially anxious dog, this may be the best route.
Have someone not in the wedding party or family that can take care of them
As much as you’d love a first dance with your dog, sometimes it’s not always feasible. Some pet services offer pickup or dog-sitting on your big day, and one awesome local option is Wagnolia Bells, who specializes in this kinda thing! Definitely check out what’s offered.
Potty break
Even if the venue is pet-friendly, make sure there are places for your pet to use the potty nearby! You don’t your poor pup to have an accident anywhere, so check out some close outdoor, dog-friendly areas near your venue. Plus, it’s a great way for them to get out some energy and be themselves!
Take into account your dog’s anxieties and fears
If your dog is not big on sparklers, loud noises, big crowds, etc. then this is something to consider for your big day. You don’t want to stress your pup out for the sake of a few cute photos! Definitely keep in mind their feelings and what you know for a fact may cause them distress. It’s best to avoid those things!
Look up special tips and tricks from pros
As much as we hope this post helps you, sometimes the best course of action is looking up what some pros have to say! If your dog will be walking down the aisle, see what professional dog trainers have to say. Maybe they’ve got some great tricks up their sleeve that will work for your specific pet! You never know.
Find some cute wedding stuff for your dog
There are a ton of things on the market these days for your pet. Many places offer “Dog of Honor” gear, such as bandanas, flower collars, even cute lil tutus! Just make sure whatever you get for your pet fits them, both in size and personality. If your dog hates clothing, maybe just a little bow on their collar! Still festive without being TOO much.
