Inspiration / 3 min readThe Union in Frame journal
Dogs at your wedding: what to arrange so it works for everyone
Words by Union in Frame
You can have your dog at your wedding in the UK if the venue and the person conducting the ceremony both agree. After that, it comes down to a handler for the whole day, timing that suits the dog, and care for guests who are nervous around dogs.
Ask the venue and the registrar first
Start with the venue. Many allow dogs in the grounds but not indoors, some draw the line wherever food is served, and a few welcome dogs everywhere, including overnight. Ask for the rule in writing so there is no debate on the day.
The ceremony is a separate question. Register offices usually admit assistance dogs only. At a licensed venue, tell the registrar when you book the ceremony, because they may set conditions, such as the dog staying on a lead. For a church or chapel wedding, it is the minister's decision, so ask early.
Give the dog a handler for the whole day
You cannot hold a lead while you are getting ready, at the front of the room or greeting guests, and neither can your parents or wedding party. Choose one person whose only job is the dog: someone it already knows, who is not also a bridesmaid, usher or reader. Wedding dog chaperone services exist if nobody suitable comes to mind.
Agree the plan in advance: where the dog waits, when it comes in, where it goes afterwards, and who takes it home. Pack water, a bowl, treats, poo bags and a towel.
Choose one moment and time it well
Most dogs are at their best for a short, planned appearance rather than a whole day of noise. Two moments work well: the ceremony entrance, for a calm dog on a lead, and the portraits during the drinks reception, where it can join you for twenty minutes and then go home.
Tell your photographer and anyone filming which moment you choose so it sits in the running order. If you want the dog to carry the rings, rehearse first; a bow tie or a flower collar asks far less of it.
Plan for heat, confetti and food
A warm day is harder on a dog than on your guests. Keep it out of parked cars, give it shade and water, and cut the appearance short if it is panting. Hot paving can burn paws, so check the ground before portraits.
Throw confetti without the dog underfoot, as some dogs will eat whatever lands. Food is the bigger worry. Grapes, raisins, chocolate, onions and alcohol are poisonous to dogs, and dropped canapés are within easy reach. Ask guests not to feed the dog and have it taken out before the meal.
Look after guests who are nervous around dogs
Some guests are frightened of dogs, some are allergic, and some would rather not be approached. Say on the invitation or wedding website that your dog will be there and roughly when, so people can plan for it.
On the day, keep the dog on a lead and let it be approached rather than approach. The handler should notice anyone who steps back and give them space. Leave the dog out of big family groups unless everyone is comfortable, and if a guest has an assistance dog, tell them yours will be there too.
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