The Ultimate Guide to Having a Dog in Your Wedding

-all the de-“tails” of weddings with pups

The Venue at Murphy Lane in Newnan, GA will celebrate our 8th year in October 2025. Our wedding venue has more than 230 weddings “on the books”. As much as we might think we have seen everything at Murphy Lane there is always something new and unique in each wedding. A bride arriving in a horse-drawn carriage is still in the “only once” category. Another bride riding to the wedding ceremony on a beautiful white horse before walking down the aisle is another. What is more common than horses in weddings we have seen are our “best friends”. Dogs are part of the history of several weddings here at Murphy Lane. Should you have a dog in your wedding? There’s a lot to think about before you make that call. Why don’t you “sit” and “stay” with me a few minutes to hear the perspective of a wedding venue owner?

Planning a wedding is a delicate balance of romance, logistics, and attention to details. Now, add a dog (or two) into the mix, and you’ve just upped the ante in the most adorable way possible. But before you hand over the rings to your golden retriever and expect a seamless performance, let’s talk about how to make sure your furry friend is the best guest (or groomsman) they can be. Having a dog in your wedding could be a wonderful idea but what are the chances it will come off well?

1. Is Your Dog Wedding-Ready?

Not every dog is cut out for the wedding scene. Some pooches love a crowd, while others panic at the sight of too many well-dressed strangers. Ask yourself a few important questions:

• Is your dog well-behaved in public?
• Can they resist the urge to jump on Aunt Susan’s expensive silk dress?
• Are they likely to steal food off the buffet table or photobomb every shot?

If you answered “yes” to any of these potential catastrophes, consider whether your wedding might be a little too overwhelming for them—or whether you need to invest in some pre-wedding obedience training. The dog’s “personalitity” is definitely a consideration before adding a dog to your wedding!

2. The Role of Honor- if you have a dog in your wedding what will he do?

Once you’ve determined that your dog is a suitable wedding participant, it’s time to decide their role. Here are some classic (and hilarious) ways to include them:

• Ring Bearer: If your dog has the discipline (or at least the bribability), having them carry the rings down the aisle is a showstopper. Just make sure they don’t think the ring box is a chew toy.
• Dog of Honor/Best Dog: Dress them up in a tiny tuxedo or a flower crown and have them walk with the bridal party. Bonus points if they match the groom.
• Greeter Extraordinaire: If your dog is the life of the party, station them at the entrance to welcome guests with tail wags and sniffs. This is an idea we have not yet seen at Murphy Lane but seems like a great way to add a dog to your wedding in a less-demanding role.
• Photo Star: Maybe your dog isn’t a fan of crowds, but they can still participate in your wedding photos, looking regal and adorable in formal wear.

3. Dressing the Part

Speaking of formal wear, let’s talk about doggy fashion. Sure, a full tuxedo is hilarious, but will your dog tolerate it? A bowtie, bandana, or floral collar might be a safer bet. If you include a dog in your wedding they might as well coordinate!

Just remember:

• Avoid anything restrictive that might make your dog uncomfortable.
• Test the outfit before the big day (preferably not five minutes before walking down the aisle).
• Make sure the accessories are secure—no choking hazards allowed!

4. Logistics and the Doggy VIP Experience- the most important things to think about if you have a dog in your wedding

To ensure your furry friend has a good time, you’ll need a dog handler. This designated person will be in charge of walking, feeding, and making sure your pup doesn’t wander off to join the catering team. After seeing numerous weddings with dogs I think this is the most important item to fully explore and understand. The handler should not be someone on your guest list. Their job is to be fully responsible for your dog. It’s impossible to be a guest and a responsible dog handler simultaneously. If you want a dog in your wedding plan to have a dedicated handler.

Also consider:

• Bathroom Breaks: No one wants a “surprise” on the aisle runner.
• Water & Treats: A happy dog is a well-fed, hydrated dog.
• Exit Strategy: If your pup gets overwhelmed, have a plan for them to go home or relax in a quiet space.

5. Doggy Wedding Etiquette

Your guests love your dog—but maybe not as much as you do. Keep in mind:

• Not everyone is a dog person (gasp!). Respect their space.
• Some guests may have allergies or be afraid of dogs.
• Ensure your venue actually allows pets before promising your dog the starring role. The Venue at Murphy Lane is happy to work through the details of having a dog in your wedding. This is definitely an area to fully discuss with your wedding venue!

6. Capturing the Cuteness

Wedding photos with dogs? A thousand times yes. Work with your photographer to get shots that include your pup’s best angles. Some photographers have tricks up their sleeves to get the dog’s attention. Hint: it’s not always a “treat”!

Some other ideas:

• First look with your dog.
• A family portrait with your furry child.
• A shot of them walking down the aisle (hopefully in the right direction).

7. Reception Shenanigans- does having a dog in your wedding include the reception?

From our point of view most dogs should leave after their designated duties are complete. If your dog is sticking around for the reception, consider:

• A dog-friendly treat station.
• A special “dance” with your pup.
• A cozy bed or play area where they can relax while you party the night away.

8. Backup Plans (Because Dogs Will Be Dogs)

Even the best-behaved pup can have an off day. Maybe they get nervous, or maybe they decide mid-ceremony that a squirrel sighting is more pressing than your vows. Have a Plan B, whether it’s an exit strategy or just a willingness to laugh it off. Having a dog in your wedding is similar to having young children included. Sometimes you just don’t know what they will do. Is that what you want on your wedding day? Some will say “yes” while others say “not only ‘no’, but…..”

9. The Grand Finale

Including a dog in your wedding is all about embracing the joy, chaos, and unconditional love they bring to your life. If things don’t go perfectly, just remember: guests will forget a mix-up in the vows, but they’ll never forget the sight of your dog trotting down the aisle in a bowtie.

So go forth, celebrate, and let your pup be part of the happiest day of your life—just don’t expect them to sit through all the speeches!

Contact Us!

If you’d like to talk to us about having a dog in your wedding or if you’d like to hear more about The Venue at Murphy Lane please click here: https://thevenueatmurphylane.com

For access to the photo galleries at Murphy Lane please click here: https://thevenueatmurphylane.com/galleries

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