Being an Island Park Photographer I have lots of experience with dogs. Having your dog be a part of your wedding is definitely something you should consider! They are family, and your best friend. Sadie and I LOVE DOGS! There are many roles your dog can have at your wedding, so here are a few suggestions:

Doggy Checklist & Jobs

Your dog can be a part of your wedding in many ways. Here is a checklist to figure out what roles would suit them the best.

• What is your dog’s personality?
• Does your dog have “sit,” “down,” and “stay” nailed down?
• Does your dog get excited easily?
• Can your dog handle loud noises?
• How does your dog react to children?
• How does your dog handle meeting crowds, strangers, or lots of familiar faces?

Here are a few jobs that your dog could have based on your answers on the checklist.

• Ringbearer: Your dog can bring your rings to you on that special day. This job is best suited for dogs who are calm, and good at obeying the commands “sit,” “down,” and “stay.” They should also be able to handle large crowds, strangers, and familiar faces in a loud setting.
• Flowerdog: Your dog can carry a small non-toxic flower bouquet down the aisle. Like the ringbearer’s job, this job is best suited for dogs who are calm, and good at obeying the commands “sit,” “down,” and “stay.” They should also be able to handle large crowds, strangers, and familiar faces. Your dog should also be able to handle loud noises.
• Front Row Guest: Your dog can sit in the front row and watch the wedding next to someone that they are comfortable with. This job is ideal if your dog has a mild and calm personality.
• Invitation Postcard Pup: Your dog can be on wedding invite cards and engagement photos. This is a great way to incorporate your dog in a way that’s heartwarming and comfortable, especially if your dog gets nervous around crowds or strangers.

Comfort and Safety

It’s important to make sure that everyone is comfortable and safe, including your dog. Here are things to look out for and to do:

• Tell people that you are going to have a dog at the wedding so that those who have allergies or are afraid of dogs can be prepared 
• Have someone, who your dog knows very well, assigned to take care of your dog during the wedding
• Make sure that the wedding planner, the florist, and your guests know the area should be scent friendly for your dog
• Make sure that the flowers and your bouquets are not toxic for your dog, especially if your dog is going to be a flowerdog
• Be wary of food like chocolate that are not good for dogs, and make sure that your guests know not to feed the dog anything that could be harmful to them

Location

It’s important to think carefully on what kind of venue you’ll choose for your wedding, if your dog is going to play a role in the actual wedding ceremony. Here are few suggestions on what to do:

• Make sure the venue is dog friendly, and wouldn’t be a catastrophe if it got messy
• Ask if the venue is okay with having dogs there
• Think about having an outdoor wedding or wedding with a place where your dog can roam before and after the wedding
• Watch out for mud and dirt at the venue
• If you are planning to have an outdoor wedding, be wary of other pets and animals in that area

Preparation

Prepare your dog for the big day by making sure that they know their role and feel comfortable with it.

• Rehearse your dog’s role
• Let your dog get used to wearing any of the outfits or props
• Have your dog get used to your crowd, and maybe even the clothes and venue so he can be comfortable
• MOST IMPORTANTLY, be prepared for the unexpected and to take it with laughter and grace

Remember that there are many ways your dog can participate at your wedding. Best wishes in finding one that works best for you and and your furry friend, on your special and wonderful day!

Like our photos? Check more out at https://loveandstorystudio.com/portfolio/

Read our other blogs and check out this lovely barn wedding: https://loveandstorystudio.com/stetson-shelby-barn-on-1st-idaho-falls-wedding/

Having Your Dog Be a Part of Your Wedding