Including your dog in your wedding day can create some of the most memorable moments of your celebration — but behind every adorable aisle walk and perfect photo is plenty of planning and care.
We spoke with Pawz & Me, experienced wedding pet attendants based in NSW, to learn what a wedding dog chaperone really does, how they help pets stay calm and comfortable throughout the day, and the biggest mistakes couples should avoid when including their furry family members in their wedding.
1. What does a wedding dog chaperone actually do on the wedding day?
As wedding dog chaperones, we can essentially help with anything the couple needs for their dog on their wedding day.
We can pick them up from home, walk them down the aisle, assist photographers by getting the dog’s attention towards the camera, keep them calm and quiet throughout the ceremony, then take them home, feed them dinner, and make sure no one has to worry about the dog for the rest of the night.
2. What information do you need from a couple before the wedding day?
A run sheet is always helpful, however we mainly just need to know where we’re going, what time we’re expected there, whether the dog has any allergies, and what their temperament is like.
3. What are the most common mistakes couples make when including their dog?
Not hiring a chaperone is a big one, but if they do hire one, another common mistake is not telling the chaperone about any behavioural issues or traits that could become a problem. If we don’t know what to expect, we can’t help prevent bad behaviour before it happens.
4. What does a typical wedding day timeline look like from your perspective?
While everyone else’s day starts pretty early, ours usually starts just before the ceremony. We arrive a minimum of 15 minutes early, take the dog for a walk around the venue so they can sniff and get comfortable, attend the ceremony, work alongside the photographers to get the best photos possible, then once the reception begins, we head off so the humans can enjoy the party.
5. How do you handle unexpected issues on the day (nerves, barking, toileting, weather)?
It really depends on the dog and the venue. If a dog is crying or barking and small enough to be held, we’ll usually hold them which often settles them down. If that doesn’t work, or the dog is too big to carry, we’ll calmly walk them away from the ceremony for some sniffing and mental stimulation to help them reset.
We always encourage toileting before arriving at the venue and again outside the ceremony area to avoid any mishaps, but we’re always prepared with poo bags just in case.
"As wedding dog chaperones, we can essentially help with anything the couple needs for their dog on their wedding day."
Christine Proietti
PAWZ & ME
6. Do you stay with the dog for the whole wedding, or just certain parts?
Typically, dogs aren’t allowed at the reception due to food service, so we’re usually there for everything right up until the reception begins.
7. What should couples provide for their dog on the wedding day?
We come prepared with everything from accessories, treats, water, poo bags, squeaky toys and pretty leads and collars. The only thing we ask couples to provide is a harness if their dog normally walks on one. We find dogs who are used to harnesses often don’t feel as comfortable walking on just a collar.
8. Are there situations where you recommend not bringing a dog to the wedding?
If your dog is aggressive towards humans, I would definitely recommend not bringing them. However, if they’re dog reactive and there won’t be other dogs around, that’s usually absolutely fine.
9. What’s the most memorable (or unusual) wedding you’ve worked at with a dog?
My most memorable wedding experience was attending a beautiful traditional Indian wedding and chaperoning their cat!
10. What’s one piece of advice you would give couples considering including their dog?
Unless your dog has absolutely perfect recall and focus, don’t let them walk or run down the aisle on their own. Far too often we see videos of dogs running off, jumping on guests, or causing accidental damage. If you don’t want your chaperone in the photos, have a loved one walk the dog down the aisle and let the chaperone meet them at the front.
From coordinating transport and toileting breaks to helping photographers capture the perfect shot, Pawz & Me know exactly how to make wedding days stress-free for both couples and their pets.
Their advice highlights just how valuable a professional pet chaperone can be when including dogs in a wedding celebration.
With the right preparation and support, your furry best friend can safely be part of the memories — while you enjoy every moment of your big day without worry.
Pawz & Me offers a range of wedding packages all with varying inclusions, and work alongside you to build a timeline that suits your needs for your big day. They're based in Camden and can travel all across NSW.
