If your furry friend is part of your family and just as important to you and your partner as any of your friends, why not include them in your wedding celebrations? A popular way is to have your dog travel in your wedding car for the journey to the ceremony, and then join you both on your first ride as a married couple to the reception. With careful advance planning, including your dog in your wedding transport can be a wonderful success.
Tips for Travelling with Your Dog on the Big Day
The most important point is keeping your dog comfortable. Ensure there is plenty of fresh air in the car – but not too draughty. Remember that many wedding and reception venues do not allow dogs other than service animals, so it is essential to check well in advance. If your dog is not present during the ceremony itself, nominate a trusted friend for ‘doggie duties’ to walk them, provide water, and keep their favourite toy close by.
Here are 10 fun and practical dog-inspired wedding car ideas:
1. Customise a canine car seat
Make your dog’s journey safe and enjoyable by decorating a pet car seat or dog crate with ribbons and details to match your wedding theme. This ensures they’re comfortable and secure.
2. Dress your dog for the wedding
It can be great fun to dress your dog for the big day! While bridal gowns and morning suits are available in dog sizes, comfort should always come first.
Most couples choose a floral collar or crown to match the wedding theme, or a smart tuxedo bow tie. You can also find fun neckerchiefs and collars embroidered with phrases like “I loved her first”.
If you opt for a more elaborate outfit, arrange for photos to be taken upon your arrival, and then let your pet-sitter remove the outfit while you are in the ceremony.
3. Have a front-seat co-pilot
Some couples allow their dog to travel in the front passenger seat of the wedding car. If you do, secure them with a proper dog harness attached to the seat belt, and move the seat as far back as possible to reduce any risk. However, it is generally safer for dogs to travel in the rear. That said, a shot of your dog sitting beside a uniformed chauffeur always makes for fun wedding photos.
4. Dress Your Dog as a Chauffeur
If your dog is in the front passenger seat, why not dress them as your ‘doggy chauffeur’? A tiny chauffeur’s cap and bow tie add a playful, whimsical touch.
5. Add ‘Furry Friend’ signage
Highlight your dog’s role with personalised wedding signage. Fun ideas include signs reading “Just Married + Our Puppy” or “Off on Honeymoon – with our Dog!”.
6. Make your dog the photographer
For a unique perspective, attach a safe mini-camera to your dog’s harness to capture the car journeys and behind-the-scenes moments. The result? Unexpected and relaxed footage that adds to your memories.
7. The perfect bride’s companion
If allowed, your dog can take on the role of escort – walking from the car to the venue with you on their lead. A small sign reading “Here Comes the Bride” around their neck makes for a charming touch. These can easily be found online through retailers such as Etsy or Amazon.
8. Appoint your dog as ring bearer
If your venue allows it, your dog can carry the wedding rings. Options include a small pouch attached to their collar or a basket carried in their mouth. Because dogs can be unpredictable, it’s wise to practise this in advance to ensure your pet is confident and comfortable.
9. Include your dog in the wedding photos
Your chosen wedding car adds character and elegance to your photos – so why not include your dog too? Discuss the idea with your photographer beforehand, who can select the perfect spot outside the venue or along the journey for those special shots.
10. Other creative ideas
If your reception venue is dog-friendly, there are plenty more ways to include your four-legged friend. Consider:
- > Adding a silhouette or photo of your dog to menus or place cards
- > Naming a cocktail after them
- > Using a model of your dog as a cake topper (or a fun figurine with icing on its nose beside the cake)
- > Serving iced dog-shaped cookies as wedding favours
- > Providing ‘doggie gift bags’ for guests who are pet owners
- > You could even invite guests to donate to your favourite dog charity, such as Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, in honour of your puppy.
Final Thoughts
Just like your wedding car, including your dog adds a unique and personal touch to your day. With good planning, a dedicated carer, and clear communication with your guests and wedding car company, your furry friend can play a special part without stress.
Not everyone has dogs as their best friends – some couples share their special day with ponies instead! While they may not be the most practical choice for riding in a wedding car, they make for truly magical photos and an unforgettable talking point. However you choose to include your beloved animals, they’ll always add charm and personality to your celebration.
