If your dog is part of your love story, then they definitely deserve a starring role in your wedding album. From heart-melting cuddles to playful, candid moments, including your pup in your wedding photos will give you memories to cherish forever.
To help you capture every tail-wagging moment, here’s the ultimate shot list for couples who want their dog to be part of their big day. Whether your pup is walking down the aisle or popping in for portraits, these ideas will make sure no special moment is missed.
Before the ceremony
Getting ready
- Your pup watching you get dressed
- Snuggles in matching robes or accessories
- Your dog with your shoes, dress or suit
- Close-up of your dog’s collar, tag or outfit
- Giving your pup a kiss or cuddle before heading out
Detail shots
- Your dog’s outfit laid out with your wedding attire
- Accessories or signage with your dog’s name or image
- Paw print stationery, dog-themed favours or collar charms
Ceremony moments
The arrival
- Your pup arriving at the venue (with bow tie, bandana or floral collar)
- Meeting guests, wagging tails and happy faces
- Walking in with a bridal party member or handler
Walking down the aisle
- Your dog as ring bearer or flower pup
- Walking beside the bride, groom or a child
- A sweet pause in the aisle for a belly rub or treat
At the altar
- Sitting or lying near you during the vows
- Looking up lovingly while you say “I do”
- A gentle paw on your foot or hand
Post-ceremony portraits
Just the three of you
- Classic posed portrait: couple + dog
- Nose boops, licks and cuddles
- Walking hand in hand with your pup beside you
- Holding your dog in your arms (for small breeds)
- Sitting on a bench, blanket or grass with your pup between you
Group shots
- Your dog with the full wedding party
- Your dog with each side of the family
- Any special friends or dog lovers getting a photo together
- A fun “everyone laugh while the dog does something goofy” moment
Creative ideas
- Your dog with a “My humans just got married!” sign
- Close-up of paws and hands (great for ring shots!)
- A silhouette of you, your partner and your pup
- A behind-the-scenes walking-away shot
- Shot of your dog with their tongue out or looking majestic
Plan your wedding day, your way
Every couple is different, and so is every dog. Take a look around, explore our guides, and discover the best ways to celebrate your love – together with your furry family.
Reception shots
Dog-friendly fun
- Your dog greeting guests or kids
- Lounging in their own special “dog zone” or on a comfy blanket
- Eating a special dog-safe treat or cake
- Wearing a “party pup” bandana or sparkly collar
Special decor
- Dog-themed signs, napkins or cake toppers
- Photos of your dog displayed at the venue
- Custom signature drink signs or favours featuring your pup
Candid gold
The best moments often happen when no one’s looking. Ask your photographer to keep an eye out for:
- Sneaky kisses
- Tail wags mid-dance
- Floppy ears in the wind
- Your dog sitting at your feet during speeches
- Your pup resting on your dress or suit jacket
- Quiet cuddles during golden hour
Bonus video shots
If you’re working with a videographer, you might also want to capture:
- Your dog’s perspective with a GoPro harness
- Running or playing in slow motion
- Barking or howling during vows (hopefully at the right moment!)
- Their reaction to seeing you in wedding attire
- A short featurette just for your pup — “A Day in the Life of the Dog of Honour”
Final tip: share the shot list with your photographer
Make sure your photographer (and videographer, if you have one) knows that your dog is part of the wedding party. Share this list — or your favourites from it — ahead of time so they can be prepared and plan accordingly.
If possible, assign someone your dog knows and trusts to help wrangle them for photos. And remember: dogs don’t always follow the script, so leave room for spontaneous moments too!
Because your dog deserves a place in every chapter
Including your dog in your wedding photos isn’t just cute — it’s a celebration of the love, loyalty and joy they bring to your life. With a thoughtful shot list, you’ll walk away with a wedding album that truly captures your whole family.
Paws, hearts and camera clicks — it’s a perfect match.
Need ideas, inspiration or practical planning tips?
Browse our other articles to find the best way to include your dog in your wedding, from ceremony roles to outfits, safety tips and more.