How to Include Your Dog in Your Wedding (Devon & Cornwall)

Want your dog to be part of your wedding day without the stress? Here’s a practical, dog-first guide to including your pup in your Devon or Cornwall wedding - from planning and venue questions to transport, ceremony moments, photos, and a calm end of day plan.

1) Start with your dog’s personality (not Pinterest)

Before you decide on roles (ring bearer, aisle walk, photos), think about what your dog will actually enjoy. Confetti, crowds, loud music and long waits can be overwhelming - so the best plan is one that keeps your dog comfortable and safe.

Quick questions to ask yourself

• Are they confident around strangers and new places?

• Do they get anxious when you’re busy or out of sight?

• Do they need regular breaks, water, or quiet time?

2) Choose a dog-friendly venue (and confirm the details)

Even if a venue says “dog friendly”, the rules can vary by area, season, and staff on the day. Confirm exactly where your dog can go and when.

Ask your venue

• Can our dog be present for the ceremony and photos?

• Are there any indoor restrictions (bar, dining areas, accommodation)?

• Is there a quiet space we can use for breaks?

• Are leads required at all times?

• Are there any venue pets or livestock nearby?

3) Plan the “dog timeline” alongside your wedding timeline

Dogs do best with short, clear “on duty” moments and plenty of downtime. Build a simple plan: arrival, ceremony moment, photos, then a calm exit.

A simple dog-friendly flow

• Arrive shortly before the ceremony (avoid long waiting around)

• Ceremony moment (walk in / sit with chaperone)

• Photos

• Leave before the busiest part of the reception

4) Sort transport early (to and from the ceremony)

Transport is often the biggest stress point for couples. If you’re getting ready, greeting guests, or moving between locations, it helps to have a clear plan for safe, calm pet transport to and from the ceremony/venue.

At The Dog Wedding Co, we can collect your dog, bring them to your ceremony, support them throughout, and transport them home afterwards - planned around your timings and your dog’s comfort.]

5) Make photos easy (and keep them fun)

Tell your photographer you want a few “dog included” shots and keep it simple. A chaperone can help with attention, positioning, and keeping your dog calm between shots.

Photo tips

• Bring high-value treats (if allowed) and a favourite toy

• Keep leads tidy (a simple lead photographs best)

• Do a few quick shots, then give your dog a break

• Avoid forcing poses - relaxed photos always look better

6) Have a calm end-of-day plan

Most dogs don’t want to stay for loud music and a packed dancefloor. Plan where your dog will go after their “main moments” - home, trusted sitter, or accommodation (if allowed).

Want help making it stress-free?

Email us your wedding date, venue, and a little about your dog and we’ll help you plan a calm, safe way to include them in your Devon or Cornwall wedding.

Email: info@thedogweddingco.com