Adorable Ways to Include Your Pup at Your Wedding

There’s a reason dogs are called man’s best friend. Loyal, loving, fun, it’s natural to want our faithful companions to be a part of something as special as our wedding. If you’re considering including your pooch in your big day, here are some big, small and super adorable ways to do it.

Save the Date
Personalize your save the date or wedding announcement by having your canine pal carry a sign with the good news. Photo + Sign: The Ritzy Rose

Invitations
Or work your furry friend into the wedding invitations or RSVP card like this couple did with their French bulldog. Photo + Design: And Here We Are

Getting ready photos
As you are dressing, be sure to have your puppy pop in for a photo opp! (Or maybe even a first look?) Photo: Katie Shuler

Dressed to the nines
Outfit your dog in the perfect wedding day look which may include a tuxedo, a top hat or tutu. But if you’re having a destination wedding, why not a Hawaiian shirt or a tiny Elvis jumpsuit, like this Chinese crested wore for his humans’ wedding in Las Vegas? Photos: Meg Ruth

Aisle escort
Have a bridal party member — ring bearers, bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls are all great choices — escort your puppy down the aisle. Decked out in a festive floral collar or leash, they’re sure to look the part. Top photo: KT Merry; Bottom Photos: Diana M Lott

Ring bearer
Put your fuzzy friend to work by carrying the wedding rings on pillow strapped to Fido’s back or tied to the collar or a special sign, as above. Totally adorable. Photo: Carmen Santorelli

Sign bearer
Signal to the the guests it’s time to get ready by sending a note via a very special messenger. Photo: Leila Brewster

Grooms gift
Incorporate your loved one by gifting a custom pair of cufflinks to your groom. Boxer cufflinks: Braybrook

Bridal escort
Instead of having a family member escort you down the aisle, have your dog accompany you. Photo: David Newkirk

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Stand guard during vows
Even if your little pooch couldn’t handle walking the aisle, you can always make sure they attend the wedding and keep careful watch over the vows. Photo: Kelsey Combe

Bridal portraits
If you do include your dog, be sure to have them pose for a few post-ceremony bridal photos. They are sure to become a cherished memory. Top photo: KT Merry; Bottom photos: Jose Villa

Wedding favors
Whether you go with dog-themed people treats or treats for guests with dogs at home, favors are a wonderful place to get whimsical and include your dog. Left photo: Taylor Lord; Right photo: Amalie Orrange

Cake topper
Customize your cake topper to include your best friend and you have an instant keepsake. Photo: Joyelle West, Cake topper: Concarta Studio

Table seating chart
Chalkboard seating chart or traditional escort cards, both of these examples incorporate names of dogs instead of wedding table numbers. Photo: Love Me Sailor; Bottom: Caroline Tran