The Ultimate Guide to Including Your Dog in Your Wedding Day

Created by The Eventful Pup,

in Collaboration with Sarah Harris Photography

📖 Free Wedding Planning Guide Estimated reading time: 18 minutes

Everything You Need to Know Before Including Your Dog in Your Wedding Day

Everything you need to know to ensure your four-legged family member can be part of your special day safely, happily and without the stress.

Inside you'll discover:

🐾 How to include your dog in your ceremony and celebrations

📸 Tips for creating beautiful, memorable photographs with your dog

🤝 How your photographer and wedding dog chaperone can work together seamlessly

🎀 Outfit ideas and accessories for your wedding pup

🦴 The things many couples forget to consider until it's too late

💍 Expert advice to help your wedding day run smoothly for both you and your dog

📖 How to use this guide

Read it from start to finish, or jump straight to the chapters most relevant to your wedding planning.

Each chapter covers a different stage of planning your dog-friendly wedding, with practical tips, expert advice and checklists to help you prepare.

Welcome from the eventful pup

For many couples, a wedding day simply wouldn't feel complete without their four-legged family member by their side. Whether your dog is walking down the aisle, posing for photographs, greeting guests or simply being part of your celebration, including them in your wedding can create some of the most memorable moments of the day.

A dog-friendly wedding does, however, require a little extra planning to ensure your dog feels safe, comfortable and happy throughout the experience.

That's where this guide comes in.

This guide has been created by The Eventful Pup in collaboration with Sarah Harris Photography. Together, we've combined our experience as a wedding dog chaperone and wedding photographer to help couples confidently include their dog in their wedding day.

At The Eventful Pup, we specialise in professional wedding dog chaperone services across Kent, Sussex and the surrounding areas, helping couples include their dogs while always putting their welfare, routine and individual needs first.

Inside this guide you'll find practical advice, planning tips and expert recommendations covering everything from deciding whether a wedding environment is right for your dog, to preparing for beautiful photographs and ensuring the day runs as smoothly as possible.

At Sarah Harris Photography, the focus is on capturing natural, relaxed and authentic moments — including those unforgettable interactions between couples and their beloved dogs that often become some of the most treasured photographs from the entire wedding day.

Above all else, remember this:

Your dog's welfare always comes first.

A happy, relaxed dog will always create better memories—and better photographs—than one who is overwhelmed, stressed or uncomfortable.

We hope this guide helps you create a wedding day that includes every member of your family.

Chapter 1 - Is a Wedding Right for Your Dog?

  • Including your dog in your wedding can create some of the most memorable moments and photographs of the day. Whether they're walking down the aisle, greeting guests, appearing in portraits or simply joining you for part of the celebration, there are plenty of ways to make them feel included.

    However, every dog is different.

    Before making plans, ask yourself:

    • Does your dog enjoy meeting new people?

    • Are they comfortable in busy or noisy environments?

    • Can they settle and relax around lots of activity?

    • Would they enjoy the experience, or simply tolerate it?

    The most successful dog-friendly weddings are the ones that are planned around the dog's personality, needs and limits — rather than expecting them to adapt to a busy wedding environment.

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: Your dog doesn't need to be involved for the entire day to be part of your wedding. Even 30 minutes for the ceremony and photographs can create lasting memories while keeping the experience enjoyable for them.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: Some of the most treasured wedding photographs are often the quiet, natural moments between couples and their dogs, rather than perfectly posed shots.

  • Including your dog in your wedding can create some of the most memorable moments and photographs of the day. Whether they're walking down the aisle, greeting guests, appearing in portraits or simply joining you for part of the celebration, there are plenty of ways to make them feel included.

    However, every dog is different.

    Before making plans, ask yourself:

    • Does your dog enjoy meeting new people?

    • Are they comfortable in busy or noisy environments?

    • Can they settle and relax around lots of activity?

    • Would they enjoy the experience, or simply tolerate it?

    The most successful dog-friendly weddings are the ones that are planned around the dog's personality, needs and limits — rather than expecting them to adapt to a busy wedding environment.

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: Your dog doesn't need to be involved for the entire day to be part of your wedding. Even 30 minutes for the ceremony and photographs can create lasting memories while keeping the experience enjoyable for them.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: Some of the most treasured wedding photographs are often the quiet, natural moments between couples and their dogs, rather than perfectly posed shots.

  • Every dog is different, and the key to a successful dog-friendly wedding is planning around your dog's personality rather than expecting them to fit into the day.

    Consider:

    • How do they cope with crowds and unfamiliar people?

    • Are they comfortable around loud music, applause and busy environments?

    • Do they enjoy travelling and visiting new places?

    • Can they settle and relax away from home?

    Weddings can be long and stimulating events, so many dogs are happiest attending for the key moments — such as the ceremony, confetti photos and family portraits — before heading home or to a quieter environment to rest.

     For many couples, this strikes the perfect balance between including their dog in the celebrations and protecting their wellbeing.

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: Most dogs enjoy being involved for around 2-5 hours rather than staying for the entire day. Having a clear exit plan and transport arrangements in place helps ensure the experience remains positive for everyone involved.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: Your dog doesn't need to stay until the evening reception to feature in beautiful wedding photographs. Some of the best images are captured during the ceremony and couple portraits earlier in the day while your dog is still relaxed and engaged.

Chapter 2 - Planning Your Dog-Friendly Wedding

  • Never assume a wedding venue is dog-friendly. Always confirm whether dogs are permitted in the ceremony space, reception areas and outdoor grounds.

    Some venues welcome dogs throughout the day, while others only allow them to attend the ceremony or photographs before leaving the venue. If your dog won't be staying for the full celebration, it's important to arrange transport home or onward care in advance.

    Assess the Environment

    Once you've confirmed your venue is dog-friendly, take some time to identify any potential hazards and plan accordingly.

    • Things to consider include:

    • Toxic flowers and plants

    • Candles and open flames

    • Open doors, gates or unfenced areas

    • Dropped food and drinks

    • Hot weather and direct sunlight

    • Busy pathways and trip hazards

    Your dog should always have access to fresh water, shade and a quiet space away from the celebrations if they need a break.

     🐾The Eventful Pup Tip: We keep an ever-growing list of dog-friendly wedding venues across Kent and Sussex. If you'd like a copy, simply get in touch and we'd be happy to share it with you.

    📸Sarah Harris Photography Tip: If possible, identify a few beautiful but quieter locations around the venue for photographs. Your dog is much more likely to be relaxed and engaged away from large groups of guests.

  • If you're planning to include your dog in your wedding day, it's worth discussing the details with your venue as early as possible. Policies can vary significantly, even between venues that describe themselves as "dog-friendly."

    Consider asking the following questions:

    1. Are dogs allowed inside the building or only in outdoor areas?

    2. Can our dog attend both the ceremony and reception?

    3. Is there a quiet room or space available for rest breaks during the day?

    4. Are there any areas of the venue where dogs are not permitted?

    5. Does the venue require proof of vaccinations or any additional paperwork?

    6. Is the ceremony area enclosed and secure?

    7. Are there any additional charges or deposits for having a dog on site?

    8. Are there any restrictions on the number or size of dogs attending?

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: If possible, arrange a pre-wedding venue visit with your dog or your wedding dog chaperone. Familiar surroundings can help your dog feel more relaxed and confident on the day itself.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: During your venue visit, ask your photographer to help identify the best locations for photographs with your dog, particularly quieter areas away from guests where your dog is more likely to be relaxed and engaged.

  • When planning a dog-friendly wedding, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring the day runs smoothly for everyone involved.

    Before the big day, consider the following:

    • Is your chosen wedding dog chaperone fully insured and DBS checked?

    • Does your venue require a pet risk assessment or any additional paperwork?

    • Are your dog's vaccinations up to date?

    • Are there any restrictions on where your dog can and cannot go at the venue?

    • Have you identified the nearest emergency veterinary practice to the venue?

    Keeping digital copies of important documents, such as vaccination records and emergency contact details, can be incredibly helpful should they be needed on the day.

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: Professional wedding dog chaperones should carry comprehensive public liability insurance and have a clear emergency plan in place, including access to local veterinary services if required.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: A well-prepared and relaxed dog makes for a much happier wedding day experience — and often results in more natural and enjoyable photographs too.

  • One of the joys of having your dog at your wedding is finding a role that suits their personality and comfort level. The key is to keep expectations realistic and choose something your dog will genuinely enjoy.

    Popular roles include:

    • Walking down the aisle with a chaperone or member of the wedding party

    • Greeting guests as they arrive

    • Appearing in your couple and family photographs

    • Wearing a sign such as "My Humans Are Getting Married!"

    • Being a flower dog or "Best Dog"

    • Carrying replica rings for photographs only

    Remember, your dog doesn't have to perform a specific job to be part of your wedding. Simply being present for a short time can make them feel included and create memories you'll treasure forever.

    For dogs who may find the excitement overwhelming, there are still plenty of ways to include them, such as naming a signature cocktail after them, featuring them on your stationery, including them in your cake topper or displaying photographs of them around the venue.

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: Match your dog's role to their personality, not your Pinterest board! A relaxed guest greeter may be far happier than an anxious ring bearer.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: Some of the best wedding photographs happen when dogs are simply being themselves — whether that's greeting guests, cuddling on the sofa or stealing the spotlight during couple portraits.

  • A little preparation before the big day can make a huge difference to our dog's confidence and enjoyment of the experience.

    If possible, arrange a visit to the venue beforehand so your dog can become familiar with the sights, sounds and smells of their surroundings.

    In the weeks leading up to the wedding, it can also be helpful to practise some of the things they may encounter on the day, such as:

    Applause and cheering

    Crowds of people

    Camera shutter sounds

    Wearing their wedding accessories

    Travelling to new locations

    On the wedding day itself, a gentle walk before arriving at the venue can help your dog burn off excess energy and settle into the celebrations feeling calm and relaxed.

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: A professional wedding dog chaperone can often accompany your dog on a pre-wedding venue visit and provide a calming walk before the ceremony to help them feel comfortable and confident.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: Relaxed dogs make for relaxed photographs. Allowing your dog time to explore and settle into the environment often results in more natural expressions and beautiful candid moments.

Chapter 3 - Building Your Wedding Dog Team

  • Having a dedicated person responsible for your dog's care allows you, your family and your bridal party to relax and enjoy the day, knowing your dog is safe, happy and well looked after.

    Whether you choose a professional wedding dog chaperone, experienced pet sitter or trusted friend, their sole responsibility should be your dog's welfare — not wedding duties.

    When choosing someone to care for your dog, consider the following:

    • Will they be responsible for supervising, walking, feeding and caring for your dog throughout the day?

    • Can they provide support during the ceremony, photographs and key moments?

    • Are they fully insured and DBS checked?

    • Do they have experience working with dogs in busy environments such as weddings?

    • Have you read their reviews and testimonials from previous clients?

    • If they are not local to you, how will they get to know your dog before the wedding day?

    • Will they offer a meet and greet or pre-wedding consultation?

    Read our complete guide:How to Choose the Right Wedding Dog Chaperone to learn what questions to ask, what qualifications to look for, and how to choose the right chaperone for your dog and your wedding day.

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: A professional wedding dog chaperone doesn't just look after your dog — they manage timings, coordinate with suppliers and help ensure your dog is in the right place at the right time for those important moments.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: Having a dedicated chaperone means your photographer can focus on capturing beautiful images, while someone else keeps your dog's attention with treats, toys and plenty of encouragement behind the camera.

  • Choosing the right wedding dog chaperone is just as important as choosing the right photographer or venue. After all, you're trusting someone with an important member of your family on one of the biggest days of your life.

    Before booking, consider asking:

    •  Are you fully insured?

    • Are you DBS checked?

    • Are you pet first aid trained?

    • What breeds, sizes and temperaments of dogs do you have experience with?

    • What happens if my dog becomes unwell or stressed during the day?

    • Can you provide reviews or testimonials from previous clients?

    • Do you offer a meet and greet before the wedding?

    • How do you coordinate with the photographer and other suppliers?

    • What transport arrangements do you provide?

    • Do you have contingency plans in place for emergencies or vehicle breakdowns?

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: Your wedding dog chaperone should feel like an extension of your supplier team, working closely with your venue, photographer and planner to ensure your dog's day runs as smoothly as yours.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: A great chaperone and photographer work hand in hand throughout the day — one caring for your dog and the other capturing those unforgettable moments you'll treasure forever.

  • Some of the most treasured wedding photographs are often the ones that include your dog. A little planning and communication beforehand can make all the difference.

    Before the big day, make sure your key suppliers know your dog will be attending, including:

    • Photographer

    • Videographer

    • Venue coordinator

    • Celebrant

    • Wedding planner

    • Caterer

    • Florist

    It is also incredibly helpful to introduce your photographer and wedding dog chaperone before the day so they can coordinate timings, locations and key moments together.

    To help capture the best photographs possible:

    • Share your dog's favourite treats, toys and trigger words.

    • Decide in advance which moments you'd like your dog involved in, such as the ceremony, confetti shot or couple portraits.

    • Schedule your dog's photographs earlier in the day while they are still relaxed and full of energy.

    • Allow plenty of time and keep expectations realistic — dogs rarely follow a shot list!

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: A dedicated wedding dog chaperone can work alongside your photographer to hold attention, manage leads, provide treats and ensure your dog is comfortable throughout the session.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: Some of the best photographs happen when dogs are allowed to be themselves. Candid moments often become the images couples treasure most.

    📸 Sarah Harris Bonus Tip: For beautiful portraits, photographers will often get down to your dog's eye level and use treats or toys behind the camera to capture those perfect ears-up expressions and direct eye contact with the lens.

Chapter 4 - Wedding Day Preparation

  • Choose simple accessories such as bow ties, bandanas or floral collars. Practise There's no denying that dogs look adorable in wedding attire, but comfort should always come before style.

    Simple accessories such as bow ties, bandanas or floral collars can look beautiful in photographs and help your dog feel part of the celebrations without restricting their movement or causing discomfort.

    Before the wedding day:

    • Choose lightweight, comfortable accessories.

    • Avoid anything that restricts breathing, vision or movement.

    • Practise wearing the outfit at home beforehand.

    • Ensure your dog is comfortable having the accessory put on and removed.

    A quick groom, brush or tidy-up before photographs can also help your dog look and feel their best.

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: Less is often more. A simple bow tie or floral collar that complements your wedding colours usually photographs beautifully and keeps your dog comfortable throughout the day.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: Neutral colours and simple accessories tend to photograph best and help keep the focus on your dog rather than their outfit.

  • Weddings are full of things that can be tempting — and sometimes dangerous — for curious dogs. A little planning can help keep your four-legged guest safe throughout the day.

    Things to watch out for include:

    • Toxic flowers and plants

    • Chocolate and wedding cake

    • Grapes and raisins

    • Onions and garlic

    • Alcoholic drinks

    • Cocktail sticks, bones and food packaging

    • Lit candles and open flames

    • Electrical cables and decorations

    • Open doors, gates and unfenced areas

    If your dog will have access to floral arrangements, ask your florist to ensure any flowers within reach are pet-safe, as some popular wedding flowers can be harmful if chewed or eaten.

    It's also a good idea to politely ask guests not to feed your dog, no matter how persuasive those puppy eyes may be!

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: A professional wedding dog chaperone will keep a close eye on your dog throughout the day, carry fresh water and treats, and help prevent any unwanted snacking from the buffet or canapé trays.

    📸Sarah Harris Photography Tip: Keep a small supply of your dog's favourite treats handy for photographs. They can be invaluable for getting attention, encouraging eye contact and capturing those perfect ears-up moments.

  • Having a few essentials close to hand can make all the difference in keeping your dog happy, comfortable and photo-ready throughout the day.

    Essentials

    ·        Lead, harness and a spare lead if possible

    ·        ID tag with up-to-date contact details

    ·        Poo bags

    ·        Water and a travel bowl

    ·        Feeding instructions and any medication your dog requires

    Grooming & Wedding Day Touch-Ups

    ·        Pet-safe wipes for muddy paws or messy faces

    ·        A towel for wet weather

    ·        A brush or comb for quick touch-ups before photographs

    ·        A lint roller for removing stray hairs from suits and dresses

    ·        A spare bow tie, bandana or collar accessory just in case

    Comfort & Distractions

    ·        Favourite treats for rewards and photographs

    ·        A favourite toy or squeaker to grab attention

    ·        A familiar blanket or comfort item from home

    ·        A chew or enrichment toy for quiet downtime

    Safety & First Aid

    ·        A basic pet first aid kit

    ·        Emergency contact details

    ·        Details of the nearest veterinary practice to the venue

    ·        Any medication your dog may need during the day

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: Professional wedding dog chaperones will usually arrive fully equipped with an emergency kit containing everything needed for transport, walks, grooming, comfort and unexpected situations.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: Treats, toys and squeakers are often the secret ingredient behind those perfect ears-up expressions and attentive looks towards the camera!

  • Before leaving for the venue, run through this quick checklist to make sure your dog has everything they need for a happy and stress-free day.

    Essentials

    ☐ Lead

    ☐ Harness

    ☐ Collar with ID tag

    ☐ Water and travel bowl

    ☐ Food and feeding instructions

    ☐ Treats

    ☐ Poo bags

    Comfort & Care

    ☐ Blanket or comfort item from home

    ☐ Favourite toy or squeaker

    ☐ Towel

    ☐ Pet-safe wipes

    ☐ Brush or comb

    ☐ Any medication required

    Wedding Extras

    ☐ Bow tie, bandana or wedding accessory

    ☐ Spare accessory (just in case!)

    ☐ Emergency contact details

    ☐ Transport arrangements confirmed

    ☐ Local veterinary details saved

    ☐ Photographer and suppliers briefed on your dog's involvement

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: Most professional wedding dog chaperones will bring many of these items with them, so don't worry if you forget something on the morning of the wedding!

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: Don't forget your dog's favourite treats and toys — they can be invaluable for keeping their attention during photographs and capturing those beautiful ears-up moments.

Chapter 5 - The Wedding Day Itself

  • Every wedding is different, but many couples find that having their dog attend for the key moments of the day creates the perfect balance between inclusion and wellbeing.

    Example timeline for a 2pm ceremony:

    08:00 – Morning walk and breakfast

    12:30 – Arrival at the venue and preparation photographs

    13:00 – The wedding dog chaperone and photographer meet to run through timings, locations and key moments involving your dog

    13:30 – Toilet break and quiet time before the ceremony

    14:00 – Ceremony and aisle duties

    14:30 – Confetti, family photographs and couple portraits

    15:30 – Rest break, water and refreshments

    16:00 – Departure home or onward care arrangements

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: Most dogs are happiest attending for the ceremony and photographs before heading home or somewhere quieter to rest. Every dog is different, so don't feel pressured to include them for the entire day.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: Scheduling your dog's photographs earlier in the day often results in more relaxed, engaged expressions and beautiful natural images.

    🐾📸 Teamwork Tip: If possible, introduce your wedding dog chaperone and photographer before the big day or early on the wedding morning. Working together allows them to coordinate timings, locations and key moments, ensuring your dog is in the right place at the right time while creating beautiful, stress-free photographs for you to treasure forever.

  • One of the biggest mistakes couples make is assuming that a member of the wedding party or a family member will be able to look after the dog on the day.

    The reality is that your guests are there to celebrate with you — not to worry about toilet breaks, feeding times, muddy paws or keeping your dog entertained during photographs and speeches.

    Whether you choose a professional wedding dog chaperone or a trusted friend, your dog's welfare should be their only responsibility for the day.

    A dedicated chaperone can help with:

    •        Collecting and transporting your dog safely to and from the venue

    •        Walks, toilet breaks and feeding

    •        Supervising your dog throughout the day

    •        Coordinating timings with your photographer and venue

    •        Helping your dog stay calm and comfortable

    • Holding treats and toys to capture their attention during photographs

    •        Recognising when your dog needs a break or some quiet time

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: A professional wedding dog chaperone doesn't just care for your dog — they become part of your supplier team, working closely with your venue, photographer and planner to ensure your dog's involvement runs smoothly from start to finish.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: Having a dedicated chaperone means your photographer can focus entirely on capturing beautiful moments, while someone else keeps your dog's attention with treats, toys and plenty of encouragement behind the camera.

  • Your dog's welfare should always come before wedding plans, photographs or timelines. Even the most sociable dogs can find weddings tiring or overwhelming at times.

    Keep an eye out for signs that your dog may be feeling stressed, anxious or overstimulated, including:

    • Excessive panting

    • Lip licking or yawning

    • Trembling or shaking

    • Pacing or restlessness

    • Excessive barking

    • Hiding or trying to move away

    • Refusing treats or food

    • A tucked tail or lowered body posture

    If your dog is showing any of these signs, it may be time for a quiet break away from the celebrations, some fresh water, or even an early trip home.

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: A professional wedding dog chaperone will monitor your dog's behaviour throughout the day and adjust plans if needed to ensure they remain happy, comfortable and safe.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: A relaxed dog always photographs better than a stressed one. Sometimes the kindest decision — and the best one for your photographs — is to give your dog some time to rest and recharge.

  • Even with the best planning, weddings can be unpredictable — so it's always worth having a backup plan for your dog.

    Things to consider include:

    • What happens if it rains?

    • Is there an indoor space available for photographs or rest breaks?

    • Is there shade available during hot weather?

    • Could the ground be too hot for paws during summer weddings?

    • Who will take your dog home if they become tired or overwhelmed?

    Weddings can be exciting and stimulating environments, and some dogs may need regular breaks away from the noise, music and guests throughout the day.

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: Professional wedding dog chaperones are experienced at recognising signs of stress or fatigue and can quickly move your dog to a quiet space for some downtime if needed. We always recommend having an emergency kit nearby containing water, treats, towels, wipes and a brush for any unexpected muddy paws!

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: Some of the most beautiful photographs happen indoors or under cover, so don't worry if the weather doesn't cooperate. A rainy wedding day doesn't mean missing out on wonderful memories with your dog.

  • When planning a dog-friendly wedding, it's often the smallest details that make the biggest difference to your dog's comfort, safety and enjoyment of the day.

    Some of the most commonly overlooked considerations include:

    ·       Fresh water and a travel bowl

    ·       Spare leads, collars or harnesses

    ·       Toilet breaks and walks throughout the day

    ·       A quiet place for rest breaks away from guests

    ·       Access to shade during warm weather

    ·       Feeding times and medication requirements

    ·       Emergency contact details and local veterinary information

    ·       Making sure your venue and suppliers know your dog will be attending

    ·       Asking guests not to feed your dog

    ·       Practising with any wedding accessories beforehand

    ·       Transport Planning

    Many couples carefully plan how they will arrive at the wedding but forget to consider their dog's travel arrangements.

    Think about:

    ·       How your dog will get to the venue

    ·       How and when they will leave

    ·       Who will be responsible for transporting them

    ·       Whether the vehicle is safe and suitable for dogs

    ·       Having a backup transport plan if needed

    These small details often make the biggest difference to your dog's wellbeing and help ensure the day runs smoothly for everyone involved.

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: A professional wedding dog chaperone can take care of transport, walks, feeding, toilet breaks and rest periods, allowing you to focus on enjoying your day rather than worrying about logistics.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: A dedicated chaperone means your photographer can focus on capturing beautiful moments rather than trying to hold a lead, squeak a toy and take photos at the same time!

  • Including your dog in your wedding can be incredibly special, but a little planning goes a long way in making sure the experience is enjoyable for everyone involved — especially your dog.

    Some of the most common mistakes couples make are:

    •   Expecting their dog to stay for the entire day.

    •    Asking a bridesmaid, groomsman or family member to take responsibility for the dog.

    •     Forgetting regular water and toilet breaks.

    •    Choosing outfits or accessories that are uncomfortable or restrictive.

    •    Not planning transport to and from the venue.

    •   Forgetting to consider weather conditions and temperature.

    •    Not informing suppliers that a dog will be attending.

    •     Failing to provide a quiet space for rest breaks.

    •     Using real wedding rings instead of replicas for ring bearer duties.

    •     Not having a backup plan if things don't go quite as expected.

    The good news is that most of these can be avoided with a little preparation and the support of experienced suppliers.

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: The happiest wedding dogs are usually those who attend for the important moments, have plenty of breaks and have a dedicated person looking after their needs throughout the day.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: Don't aim for perfection. Some of the most memorable and treasured photographs come from the unexpected moments — a wagging tail during the vows, a curious sniff of the bouquet or a spontaneous cuddle during portraits.

Chapter 6 - Final Preparations

  • Whether you're using a professional wedding dog chaperone or a trusted friend, providing clear information about your dog beforehand helps ensure the day runs smoothly and safely.

    Useful information to share includes:

    Your Dog's Details

    ·       Name, age and breed

    ·       Microchip information

    ·       Veterinary practice details

    ·       Any medical conditions or medication requirements

    Wedding Day Contacts

    ·       Chaperone contact details

    ·       Emergency contact information

    ·       Venue coordinator details

    ·       Key members of the wedding party

    Behaviour & Preferences

    ·       Important commands and cue words

    ·       Favourite treats, toys and attention grabbers

    ·       Any fears or triggers

    ·       Signs that your dog may be feeling stressed or overwhelmed

    Routine & Logistics

    ·       Feeding times and quantities

    ·       Dietary requirements or allergies

    ·       Your dog's role in the ceremony

    ·       Transport arrangements and departure plans

    Emergency Planning

    It's sensible to agree in advance who can authorise emergency veterinary treatment if you are unavailable during the ceremony or photographs.

    🐾 The Eventful Pup Tip: Professional wedding dog chaperones will usually provide a detailed booking or handover form to gather all of this information before the wedding day, ensuring your dog's care is personalised to their individual needs.

    📸 Sarah Harris Photography Tip: Sharing your dog's favourite treats, toys and trigger words with your photographer beforehand can make a huge difference when it comes to capturing those perfect expressions and natural moments.

    🐾📸 Teamwork Tip:

    When your wedding dog chaperone and photographer work together, beautiful things happen. Your chaperone can help with timings, treats, toys and keeping your dog's attention, while your photographer focuses on capturing those special moments you'll treasure forever.


  • At The Eventful Pup, we believe that your dog is family — and family deserves to be part of your wedding day too.

     

    Based in Tunbridge Wells and covering Kent, Sussex and the surrounding areas, we provide professional wedding dog chaperone services, helping couples include their four-legged family members in their celebrations safely, calmly and stress-free.

     

    From collecting your dog from home and transporting them safely to your venue, to assisting with the ceremony, photographs, walks, toilet breaks and rest periods, we take care of every detail so that you can focus on enjoying your day.

     

    Our services include:

     

    🐾  Safe transport to and from your venue

    🐾  Ceremony and aisle assistance

    🐾  Support during photographs and key moments

    🐾  Walks, feeding, toilet breaks and rest periods

    🐾  Regular photo and video pupdates throughout the day

    🐾  Meet and greets before your wedding where possible

    🐾  Overnight care options for selected packages

    🐾  A personalised service tailored to your dog's individual needs

     

    As a small business, we intentionally work with one dog booking at a time, allowing us to provide truly personal, one-to-one care and attention throughout your wedding day.

     

    For your peace of mind, The Eventful Pup is:

     

    ✔ Fully insured

    ✔ DBS checked

    ✔ Experienced in caring for dogs of all ages, breeds and personalities

    ✔ Passionate about putting your dog's welfare first

     

    Most importantly, we understand that no two dogs — or weddings — are the same. Whether your dog is confidently walking down the aisle, greeting guests, joining you for photographs or simply popping in for a cuddle and a few pictures, we'll work with you to create a bespoke experience that suits both you and your dog.

     

    We'd love to help make your wedding day even more memorable.

     

    📍 Kent, Sussex and surrounding areas

    🌐 www.theeventfulpup.co.uk

    📧 hello@theeventfulpup.co.uk

     

    "Because every member of the family deserves a place in your wedding story." 🐾💍

  • ‍At Sarah Harris Photography, we believe that the best wedding photographs are the ones that capture genuine moments, real emotions and the people — and pets — that matter most to you.

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    Specialising in relaxed and natural wedding photography, Sarah has experience photographing dogs at weddings and understands that they don't always follow the shot list! With patience, flexibility and a love of capturing authentic moments, she creates beautiful images that tell the story of your day exactly as it happened.

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    Whether your dog is walking down the aisle, greeting guests, joining your confetti photos or simply stealing the show during couple portraits, Sarah works alongside your wedding dog chaperone to ensure those special moments are captured beautifully and without stress.

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    Sarah's approach focuses on:

    ‍‍📸  Natural, relaxed and authentic photography

    ‍ 📸  Capturing candid moments as they happen

    ‍📸  Creating beautiful memories with every member of your family

    ‍ ‍📸  Working seamlessly with your wedding suppliers

    ‍ ‍📸  Helping couples feel comfortable and enjoy their day

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    From muddy paws and wagging tails to nose boops and unexpected photobombs, some of the most treasured wedding photographs are often the ones involving your dog.

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    Because after the cake has been eaten and the flowers have faded, your photographs are what bring those memories back to life for years to come.

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    📍 Kent & Sussex

    ‍ ‍🌐 www.sarahharrisphotography.co.uk

    ‍ ‍📧 info@sarahharrisphotography.co.uk

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    ‍ ‍"Capturing the moments you'll want to relive forever." 📸

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Created by The Eventful Pup,

in collaboration with Sarah Harris Photography

Bringing together professional wedding dog chaperone expertise and specialist photography advice to help couples create unforgettable memories with their four-legged family members.

🎉 Win the Ultimate Dog-Friendly Wedding Experience!

As a thank you for reading our guide, we're giving one lucky couple the chance to win an unforgettable wedding day for them and their four-legged best friend.

 

🏆 Prize worth over £1,840

🐾 Wedding Day Dog Chaperone by The Eventful Pup

📸 Professional Wedding Photography by Sarah Harris Photography

Whether your dog is walking down the aisle, posing for portraits or simply sharing your special day, we'll help make sure every precious moment is beautifully captured while your four-legged family member is cared for throughout the celebration.

👇 Enter the competition below

Enter our competition here