Here comes the bride… and her dog! There’s no reason why your pooch can’t be part of your special day.

Your wedding day is said to be the most special day of your life and it is one you want to share with everyone who is important to you – including your dog! While some people think it is silly to include dogs in wedding ceremonies, there are those who feel that their dog is a part of the family and wouldn’t have it any other way. If you are thinking about including your dog in your ceremony, read this list of fun and creative ideas.

1.) Walking Down the Aisle

Every wedding ceremony begins with the procession of people important to the bride and groom – the parents, siblings and friends that make up the wedding party. This is the perfect opportunity to include your dog. Have him act as an honorary groomsman in escorting one of the bridesmaids, or even the flower girl, down the aisle. You might also have him sit by your side as you take your vows.

2.) Ring-Bearer

Many pet parents like to include their dogs in the wedding as a ring-bearer. This is a sweet and simple idea that can be modified to suit your pet’s personality. If your dog is very well-trained and calm, he could carry a pillow in his mouth with the rings tied to it. For dogs that are a little more excitable, it might be better to tie the rings to his collar and have a friend walk him down the aisle at the proper time.

3.) Wedding Photos

On your special day, you want to take as many photos as possible to commemorate the occasion – these photos are the perfect opportunity to involve your pet. Take some traditional poses of you and your pet or get creative with a photo of your dog holding the bouquet in his mouth. If you want to go all out, dress your dog in a tuxedo of his own for the photos.

4.) Other Creative Ideas

If you want to include your pet in the wedding in a non-traditional way, there are several things you can do. If your dog is small, you can carry him down the aisle in a flower-decorated basket rather than carrying a bouquet. Use your dog as a prop for the photo booth at your reception or have him hold a sign around his neck to give your guests important instructions.

Additional Tips to Consider

No matter what role your dog is going to play in the wedding, it is important that he is properly trained before the big day. The last thing you want is for your dog to eat the ring or trip you in your walk down the aisle because he couldn’t control himself. Make sure your dog knows the basic sit, stay and come commands so you can keep him in line on your special day. You may also want to consider enlisting the help of one of your guests to act as the caretaker for your dog during the ceremony – this person will be responsible for keeping the dog in line when he is not participating.

Another thing to consider is whether your chosen venue will allow pets. For outdoor venues, this generally isn’t a problem but you should always check to be sure before you book the date. If you absolutely can’t bring your dog to the venue, try to include him in other ways such as taking pictures with him before you leave for the venue or including him in your Save the Date photo cards. You can also have a custom cake-topper made to include your pet in spirit at your reception.

If your pet is an important part of your life, you want him to be included on the most important day of your life – use some of these tips to include your dog in your wedding day.