Your wedding day is one of the most memorable moments of your life – and it makes perfect sense to share it with your most loyal companion. Whether you call them the Best Dog or your Dog of Honour, including your pup in your wedding party is a fun and heartfelt way to celebrate your bond.
What is a Best Dog or Dog of Honour?
Think of it as the doggy equivalent of the Best Man or Maid of Honour. The title is entirely up to you, and so is the role your dog plays.
Whether it’s walking down the aisle ahead of you, standing (or sitting) by your side during the ceremony, or just being part of the pre-wedding photos, your dog can be involved in a way that suits their personality – and yours!
Ideas for involving your dog as Best Dog or Dog of Honour
Here are some popular (and adorable!) ways to include your dog in the big day:
Walk down the aisle
Have your pup accompany the bride, groom or a bridal party member down the aisle. For extra cuteness, they can wear a bow tie, floral collar or mini tux.
Ring bearer or flower dog
If your dog is well-trained, they might be able to carry the rings (safely attached to a pillow or pouch) or walk ahead with a flower basket on their back. You may choose to use “fake” rings and keep the genuine items with your human groomsmen or bridesmaids.
Standing by your side
Let your dog sit or lie down beside you during the vows. It's a symbolic gesture that your furry friend is an important part of your life – now and forever.
Part of the wedding portraits
Even if your dog doesn’t attend the ceremony, including them in your getting-ready photos or post-ceremony shoot can still give them a starring role.
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.
Dressing your dog the part
Dressing up your dog in a wedding outfit can be a fun way to let them match the theme and feel part of the party. Just make sure their outfit is:
- Comfortable and not restrictive
- Made of breathable, lightweight materials
- Secure, but easy to remove
- Free from small parts they could chew or swallow
Popular options include:
- Floral collars or greenery garlands
- Bow ties or bandanas
- Custom vests or tutus in wedding colours
- Signs reading “Best Dog” or “Dog of Honour”
Visit our Dog Wedding Attire & Accessories page for some inspo >
Who should handle your dog on your wedding day?
Designate a trusted friend, family member or hire a professional dog handler to be your dog’s chaperone. Their job? To make sure your pup is comfortable, hydrated and well-behaved before, during and after the ceremony.
Tip: If possible, have the dog handler attend the rehearsal so they know exactly where to be and what to expect.
Is your dog right for the role?
Before assigning your dog a formal role in the ceremony, ask yourself:
- Are they comfortable around large groups of people?
- Do they get nervous or overexcited in new environments?
- Can they handle noise, applause, music and movement?
- Will the weather and venue be safe and suitable for them?
If the answer to any of these is “maybe not,” that’s okay. There are still other ways your dog can be part of your day (like a pre-wedding photoshoot or featuring them in your stationery).
A role that reflects your relationship
Ultimately, choosing your dog as your Best Dog or Dog of Honour is about more than just a cute photo opportunity – it’s a celebration of the love, loyalty and joy they bring to your life.
Whether they’re front and centre or quietly supporting from the sidelines, your furry friend deserves a role that reflects their special place in your heart.
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.