Whether you’re eloping in the mountains or celebrating with all your favorite people, including your dog in your wedding day can make everything feel a little more you. After all, they’ve been with you through the everyday moments that make up your life together, so it only makes sense to want them by your side for one of your biggest ones. But including your pup thoughtfully takes some planning. Here’s how to decide what feels right and how to keep them happy, hydrated, and safe throughout the day.

Should Your Dog Be at Your Wedding in Person…or in Spirit?

As much as we wish every dog could be a perfect wedding guest, the reality is that not every pup thrives in a high-stimulation environment. Think about your dog’s personality:

• Are they comfortable around new people and places?
• Do they get anxious in crowds, loud settings, or new environments?
• Are they good off-leash or easily directed by a handler?

If your dog gets overwhelmed easily, consider honoring them from afar instead. There are so many ways to include them in spirit, without putting them through stress.

Ways to Include Your Dog in Your Wedding (Even If They’re Not Physically There)

Even if your pup can’t join you in person, there are sweet ways to keep them close:

• Add a paw print or silhouette to your invitations or vow books
• Wear custom socks or cufflinks with their face on them
• Tie a photo of them to your bouquet
• Include them in your ceremony script or toasts
• Set up a framed photo or a signature cocktail named after them at the bar

These little nods are always a hit, and show just how loved they are, even from afar.

If Your Dog Is Coming to Your Elopement…

Elopements often offer more flexibility for dog-friendly plans, especially if you’re spending the day outside. But being in nature can come with its own set of logistics.

Make Sure They’re Trail-Ready

If you’re planning a hike, know your dog’s limits and prepare accordingly:

• Bring plenty of water, treats, and poop bags
• Pack a rescue sling (especially for smaller dogs or longer hikes)
• Consider booties if the trail is rocky or hot
• Keep a leash and harness on hand at all times
• And above all, make sure you’re physically able to carry them out if needed

Some trails and national parks also have pet restrictions, double check the rules ahead of time (in Acadia dogs are required to be on a leash no longer than 6 feet).

If Your Dog Is Coming to Your Wedding…

Weddings often come with more moving parts—guests, music, dinner, dancing—so you’ll want to plan for your dog to be part of the day in a way that works for them.

A Few Key Tips:

• Check with your venue early to make sure it’s pet-friendly
• Consider hiring someone to care for and wrangle your dog throughout the day (like Auntie Liv)
• Think about the overall vibe—if your day is high-energy or late into the night, they might be happiest joining just for the ceremony or portraits
• If you’re hosting a microwedding at home or at a rental, you might have more flexibility to let them roam and relax with you all day

No matter what, give your pup a quiet space to retreat to when they need a break, and don’t forget their dinner!

Check out this North Conway microwedding where Franklin the corgi was the start of the show!

The Pup-Approved Plan

There’s no one “right” way to include your dog in your wedding or elopement. Whether they’re racing down the aisle, joining you for mountaintop portraits, or celebrated in spirit from afar, what matters most is that your day reflects your story, including the furry parts.

As someone with two dogs I love more than life itself, I get it. They’re not just pets, they’re part of the family. I’m always happy to help brainstorm ways to include them (or honor them) in a way that feels meaningful AND safe.

Want to brainstorm dog-friendly ideas for your day? I’m always down to talk pups and planning.