Congratulations — you’re engaged! Now comes the fun part: planning your dream day. And if you can’t imagine saying “I Do” without your furry best friend trotting down the aisle, there are a few essential things to consider before you lock in your date or venue.

Because let’s be honest — your soulmate, your best friend, your true ride-or-die buddy deserves their moment, too!

Time of Year

Dreaming of an outdoor wedding? Weather matters, especially if your pup is a senior dog or a brachycephalic breed (think French Bulldogs or Bulldogs). Warm summer afternoons can be hazardous. Temperatures above 85 degrees can cause heatstroke and/or blistered paws due to hot pavement, regardless of age or breed. If your heart is set on your pup participating in your outdoor wedding, consider April or late October for beautiful weather that is typically safer for all dogs. Your guests will thank you!

Resources:

Protect your dog from heatstroke https://www.sfspca.org/blog/protect-your-pet-from-heatstroke/

How Hot Is Too Hot for a Dog’s Paws? https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-paws-hot-pavement/

Venue Policies and Conditions

Not all dog-friendly venues are created equal! Rules and site conditions can vary, so be sure to ask:

Is my dog allowed inside (hello, air-conditioning!)? If so, are they allowed everywhere or just in certain areas?
How early can your dog arrive at the venue?
How long are dogs allowed on the property?
Does the venue require a professional wedding dog chaperone? Will they require proof of liability insurance from that professional?
Where will your dog go after cocktail hour? Many venues allow pups to be present for photos, the ceremony, and the cocktail hour, but not the dinner reception. Who’s your dog’s “designated driver” to take them back home or to a dog-friendly hotel?
Are there designated outdoor areas where your dog is authorized? Many golf course venues have restrictions regarding dogs on the grass.
Is the ceremony site on artificial grass? Will it be in the shade at your ceremony time? Did you know artificial grass can become dangerously hot, with surface temperatures on sunny days often reaching 120-180°F (49-82°C), significantly higher than the surrounding air and natural grass?
What other shaded areas are available on your anticipated wedding day and time? If possible, tour the venue at the same time of year and time of day as your wedding.
Are there any animals on the property that your dog may be reactive to? It’s not unusual in Northern California to see horses, deer, cows, goats, or a barn cat here and there. How will your pet react?
Do you have your heart set on your dog running off-leash to you down the aisle? While it makes for adorable photos, videos, and memories, most venues require dogs to be handled on leash the entire day. Ask your venue about their off-leash policy.

Your Dog’s Temperament

Of course, it’s not just about logistics; it’s also about your dog’s comfort and personality. Does your dog have Main Character Energy? Amazing, let’s RSVP “yes” for your pup!
On the flip side, if your dog is shy or nervous around crowds, positive reinforcement training can help if you have time before the big day. And if not, don’t worry, there are plenty of thoughtful ways to include your pup in spirit while letting them relax at home. You’ll probably be more relaxed on your big day as well.

How We Can Help

At Dog of Honor ® Weddings & Events, we’ve chaperoned pups at over 100 venues throughout Northern California, including Carmel, the San Francisco Bay Area, Napa, Sacramento, and Tahoe. We know the ins and outs of dog-friendly policies, and we’re happy to recommend venues, pet-friendly hotels, and other resources that make including your Dog of Honor seamless. We also have a limited number of pet strollers and wagons to keep pets elevated off hot surfaces and shaded.

Because your dog deserves to take center aisle, stress-free. 🐾💍

Inquire Today

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