Adorable Ways to Include Your Dog in Your Wedding — Even If They Can’t Attend
- pupsatthealtar
- Nov 5
- 3 min read
Your dog is part of your love story — they’ve been there for every milestone, every adventure, and maybe even your proposal! So it only makes sense to include them in your wedding day. But what if your venue doesn’t allow pets? Or maybe your pup’s personality isn’t quite suited for the hustle and bustle of a big event? Don’t worry — there are so many creative ways to make your furry best friend part of your big day. At Pups at the Altar, we help couples honor their dogs in meaningful, beautiful, and totally Instagram-worthy ways — whether your pup can attend or not.
Here are our favorite dog-friendly wedding ideas that’ll make your guests smile and your dog feel like part of the celebration.
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1. Signature “Dogtail” Menu
Let your dog steal the show at the bar! Create a signature cocktail menu inspired by your pup’s name or personality.
Think fun, personalized options like:
The Golden Retriever – a pineapple margarita with a sunny twist
The Bella Spritz – a sparkling Aperol spritz that’s as bubbly as your pup
The Pupper Paloma – a grapefruit-infused classic that’s refreshing and fun
Add a cute photo or custom illustration of your dog to your bar sign — your guests will love ordering “one more round for Fido!”
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2. Personalized Napkins, Cups & Décor
Custom cocktail napkins, cups, or drink stirrers featuring your dog’s face are one of the easiest (and cutest) ways to add personality to your reception.
You can include:
A cartoon-style portrait of your dog
Their name or a funny quote (“In dog beers, I’ve only had one!”)
Paw print designs in your wedding colors
These small touches go a long way in making your bar area feel personalized and fun — and they photograph beautifully.
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3. Picture-Perfect Dog Décor
If your pup can’t be there in person, let their photos be part of the party!
Here are a few creative ideas:
Use your dog’s pictures as table numbers — each table can feature a different photo of your pup through the years.
Add a photo frame or sign of your dog at your welcome table or guestbook area.
Include a watercolor or sketch of your dog on your seating chart or wedding signage.
It’s a heartfelt way to keep your pup close, even from afar.
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4. Dog-Inspired Desserts
Bring a playful touch to your dessert table with dog-themed treats!
A few ideas your guests will adore:
Sugar cookies shaped like your dog’s face
Cupcakes with edible paw print toppers
A custom cake topper featuring a mini figurine of your pup next to you and your partner
Your dog deserves to be part of the sweet ending to your love story.
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5. Include Your Dog in Photos & Details
Even if your venue isn’t dog-friendly, you can still include your pup in your wedding photos and keepsakes.
Consider:
Having your dog in your engagement session or “getting ready” photos
Wearing a bouquet charm or pin with their picture.
Adding a special note or poem about your dog in your ceremony.
These subtle details mean your pup is with you in spirit all day long.
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6. Send Guests Home with Dog-Inspired Favors
Everyone loves a good wedding favor — especially when it’s cute and personal.
You can offer:
Custom cookies shaped like dogs or paw prints
Mini bags of dog treats for guests to take home to their pets
Stickers or magnets featuring your pup’s face
It’s a thoughtful way to thank your guests while celebrating your dog’s role in your family.
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Celebrate Your Pup — With Pups at the Altar
At Pups at the Altar, we believe your wedding day should include every member of your family — paws and all. Whether you want your dog to walk down the aisle, greet guests, or be featured in your décor, we’re here to help you plan the perfect way to include them. From coordinating your pup’s big entrance to creating dog-inspired decorations, our team makes sure your best friend is celebrated with love (and maybe a few treats).
Ready to include your dog in your wedding? Let’s make it happen! Contact Pups at the Altar today to learn how we can help you plan the paw-fect celebration
Instagram: @pupsatthealtar
Email: pupsatthealtar@outlook.com
Facebook: Pups at the Altar
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