50 Too-Cute Ways to Include Your Pet in Your Wedding

Whether you own a cat, dog, horse, rabbit, reptile, or even a pig, there are plenty of ways to have them play a special role in your big day.

Updated 12/10/19

Attention parents of fur babies: We've compiled some of the most adorable pet wedding ideas so you can incorporate your beloved four-legged BFF into the wedding celebrations. Whether you own a cat, dog, horse, rabbit, reptile, or even a pig, there are plenty of ways to have your animal play a special role in the big day. And these pet wedding photos are all the inspiration you'll need.

When considering the following pet wedding ideas, first take into account your pet's personality and whether your venue allows pets on the premises. Many couples choose to have their furry companions present for the "I dos" and reception festivities. Have your dog walk down the aisle with the bridesmaids, or stand with the groomsmen as you say your vows. Your furry friend can even dress for the occasion. Give your pup a bowtie that matches those of the groomsmen, or a little dress so your fur baby can be an honorary flower girl. (Just think about how adorable those pet wedding photos will be.) However, if that isn't an option, consider scheduling an engagement or bridal shoot in the months leading up to the wedding, or taking photos with them during the getting-ready portion of the day. No matter which route you choose to go, notify all of your vendors so they can help you plan ahead and ensure a pet-friendly environment.

If your pet can't make it to the big day, don't fret. You can use your relationship with your pet as inspiration for your wedding stationery, décor, favors, cake, and more. Have an illustration of your pup drawn up for your invitations or escort cards. And instead of the standard newlywed wedding cake topper, you can have a replica of your precious pet made to top your confection. The pet wedding ideas are truly endless.

From furry flower girls to kitty cocktail napkins, check out some of our favorite pet wedding ideas and photos below.

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Walk Down the Aisle Together

Your pet is your ultimate furry companion who has been there for you through all of the ups and downs, so why not have them accompany you down the aisle, too?

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Pose for Pictures

Pose your fur baby next to your gown for a still-life shot that's too cute for words.

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Dress Your Pup in Festive Attire

A dapper dog makes himself right at home in fluffy layers of tulle.

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Invite Your Pups to the Getting Ready Suite

These grooms couldn't help having a quick cuddle with their pups while getting ready for their wedding.

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Take Photos Together

Bride with bridesmaids and dog — Photo by Rebecca Yale Photography

Here, the standard "bridesmaids on a bed" photo gets the cutest upgrade.

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Take a Squad Pic

Even model Shanina Shaik invited a four-legged friend to her wedding to DJ Ruckus.

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Have Fun

This little pup wants to help the bride get dressed, too.

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Consider Your Cats

This bride shows off her stunning vintage-inspired dress with a little help from her feline friend.

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Order Unique Ring Holders

Safeguard your rings with a pet-inspired accessory holder.

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Have a Real Ring "Holder"

If your pet is very obedient, snap a well-timed photo of your ring resting on their nose or paw.

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Give Your Pup a Kiss

Stoop down to your dog's level for some well-deserved nose kisses.

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Allow for Some Alone Time

Scoop your furry friend into your arms for a heartwarming pic that will be a wedding album highlight.

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Give Your Pup a Pep Talk

Photo by Susan Stripling Photography; Event Design by Erganic Design

Are you having a nontraditional bridal party? Bestow your dog or cat with the title of best man or maid of honor.

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Wear Your Loved One on Your Sleeve

A groom gave a shout-out to his pup with a customized pocket square in his likeness.

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Walk Your Pup Down the Aisle

Photo by Dennis Kwan Photography; Event Design by Gather Events

Lots of squealing will ensue when your flower girl or ring bearer walks your little pride and joy down the aisle.

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Have a Ring Bearer

Photo by Justin Tinapay Photography; Event Design by Rothweiler Event Design

Have your dog carry a specially designed pillow for his or her grand debut (entrust the real rings to the best man).

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Plan a Separate Processional

This couple attached a GoPro to their canine, capturing one-of-a-kind footage during their wedding ceremony.

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Make a Grand Entrance

We're swooning over this Southern groom's cowboy-style entrance on his steed.

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Have Company at the Altar

Photo by Austin Gros Photography; Event Design by Fête Nashville

Here, two adorable bystanders look on as a pair of grooms exchange rings.

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Make a Greenery Wreath

Deck out your dog with a gorgeous wreath or collar made of greenery.

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Wrap Their Leash in Greenery

A harness and leash completely covered with flowers are 100 percent Instagram-worthy.

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Dress Her Up in a Dress

dog in wedding dress — Photo by Clayton Austin

The cutest flower girl we ever did see.

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Dress Him Up in a Tux

This little pup in a tux almost showed up the groom.

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Wear Whatever Feels Natural

With a pink tutu and fancy collar, this canine duo stole the show.

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Consider a Floral Collar

A wreath of greenery and this little guy is ready for the spotlight.

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Opt for a Bow Tie

If your pup isn't a fan of dressing up, you can attach a small bow tie onto their collar just to take a quick photo or two.

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Coordinate Matching Outfits

This pup's bow tie matched his mom's wedding dress.

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Take Engagement Photos Together

If it's not feasible to include your pet in the actual wedding festivities because of their temperament or size, then have them accompany you to your engagement shoot instead. Compared to a full-blown wedding, it involves a much smaller window of time and there are fewer people around, making it the perfect low-pressure environment for animals who tend to be anxious or excitable. Plus, you'll still get to take lots of dynamic and memorable shots, like this one.

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