Dog Care on the Day

Keep your dog happy and safe on your wedding day

Your wedding day will be exciting, busy and full of unfamiliar sights, sounds and people. While you may be looking forward to having your dog involved in the celebrations, it is important to remember that a wedding can also be overwhelming for them. A little preparation can help your dog stay comfortable, relaxed and safe throughout the day.

Have someone dedicated to your dog

One of the most important things you can do is arrange for someone to be responsible for your dog throughout the day. This could be a trusted family member, friend or professional wedding dog chaperone who knows how to care for dogs in busy environments.

Having a dedicated person means your dog does not have to simply tag along while everyone else is busy with wedding preparations. Your handler can keep an eye on their behaviour, make sure they have access to water, take them outside for toilet breaks and exercise, and give them some quiet time if things become overwhelming.

It is also worth choosing someone who is comfortable making decisions about your dog's needs. If your dog has had enough of the excitement, they should be able to recognise the signs and take them somewhere quieter, even if it means missing part of the celebrations.

Give your dog somewhere quiet to retreat

Even dogs who are normally very social can become tired or overwhelmed at a wedding. There may be loud music, lots of people, unfamiliar smells, children running around and plenty of attention directed towards them.

If possible, set up a quiet area where your dog can take a break away from the main celebrations. This could be a separate room, a shaded outdoor area or another secure space at the venue. Make it comfortable with familiar bedding, a favourite blanket or toy, and fresh water.

Having somewhere familiar to retreat to gives your dog the option to take a break when they need it, rather than expecting them to remain involved for the entire day.

Bring familiar things from home

Your dog will already be dealing with plenty of new experiences, so familiar items can help make their surroundings feel a little more reassuring. Bring their usual bed, blanket, toys or other items they enjoy relaxing with at home – take a look at what you can put in your dog's wedding day essentials bag.

If your dog is particularly attached to a certain toy or blanket, make sure your handler knows where it is and when to offer it. Familiar smells and belongings can be surprisingly comforting when your dog is spending several hours somewhere unfamiliar.

Keep up with their normal routine

Try to stick to your dog's usual routine as much as possible. Weddings often involve an early start and a long day, but your dog still needs regular opportunities to eat, drink, exercise and go to the toilet.

Feed them at their normal times where possible and make sure fresh water is always available. Schedule toilet breaks rather than waiting for your dog to ask, particularly if they are distracted by everything happening around them.

A short walk or some quiet exercise before the ceremony can also help your dog settle, particularly if they have plenty of energy.

Think about the weather

Weather is especially important when your dog will be spending time outdoors. A beautiful sunny wedding day might be perfect for photos, but prolonged exposure to heat and direct sunlight can be dangerous for dogs.

Make sure there is access to shade and plenty of fresh water, and avoid leaving your dog in a parked car at any time. On hot days, consider limiting the amount of time your dog spends outside and arrange a cool indoor space where they can rest.

Cold, wet or windy conditions need consideration too. A dry, sheltered area and familiar bedding can help your dog stay comfortable if the weather changes during the day.

Don't assume your dog wants to be involved all day

It is easy to get caught up in the excitement of having your dog at your wedding and forget that they may not want to participate in every part of the day.

Your dog might happily enjoy the ceremony and some photographs before being ready for a quiet afternoon away from the crowds. Another dog may love being around people for hours. Pay attention to their individual personality and behaviour rather than expecting them to stay involved simply because you have planned for them to be there.

Signs that your dog is becoming uncomfortable can include excessive panting, pacing, hiding, repeatedly yawning or licking their lips, becoming unusually quiet, or trying to move away from people. Giving them a break early can prevent a stressful situation later.

Check the surroundings are secure

Before your dog arrives, make sure your handler knows which areas of the venue are secure and where your dog is allowed to go. Weddings can involve gates being opened, doors being left ajar and people moving equipment around, so even a normally reliable dog may find an opportunity to wander.

Your dog should have appropriate identification and be supervised whenever they are outside a secure area. Keep their lead and other essentials readily accessible rather than relying on being able to find them when needed.

Have a plan for the unexpected

Even with careful planning, things can change on a wedding day. Your ceremony may run late, the weather may turn, or your dog may simply decide they have had enough.

Talk through a backup plan with your dog chaperone before the big day. Know where your dog can rest, who will look after them if they need to leave the venue, and how they will get home if they are no longer comfortable staying.

The goal is not necessarily to have your dog beside you from morning until night. The goal is to make sure they have a safe, positive experience while being part of your special day.

With a little preparation and someone dedicated to looking after them, you can enjoy having your dog included in your wedding while knowing their comfort and wellbeing are being looked after too.

Related articles

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