With wedding season upon us, Rover.com has today revealed that over a third (37%) of dog owners plan to have their four-legged friend at their wedding ceremony.
The pups will play a major role on the big day, ranging from ring bearer (29%) to Pup-of-Honour (18%), and Best Man (9%).
According to the study of 1,000 engaged or recently married dog parents in the UK, almost three quarters (71%) admitted that they would rather have their dog present than some of their own friends and family members. When asked which guests they would un-invite to make space for their pooch, it was distant relatives (41%) and work colleagues (34%) that fell down the pecking order, while others would even ditch their mother-in-law to ensure their dog could attend (7%).
It seems going the extra mile for furry friends is becoming the norm. Whether it’s offering a specific menu for the dogs in attendance (28%), serving “pawsecco” (22%), or creating a dog-friendly space for when the celebrations get too much (50%), these special days are becoming increasingly tailored around our canine friends. And proving that dogs really are the true guests of honour, a third (33%) insisted that a dog-friendly wedding venue was a priority for them, while 45% even bought their canine companion a new outfit especially for the occasion – forking out £61.76 on average to ensure they look the part.
When it comes to immortalising the day, wedding photographers appear to have a new challenge on their hands, as two-thirds of those polled (64%) intend to include their dogs in the official family photographs. They’re now also required to feature in candid shots throughout the day (32%), demonstrating just how much we cherish our furry companions.
The decision to include pets in their big day comes down to couples seeing their dog as part of the family (88%), and couldn’t imagine them not present. With many pups providing the perfect test run before a human baby comes along, almost one in five (17%) say their fur-baby was an integral part of their love story. Therefore, it only makes sense that they’re involved, whereas a quarter (26%) don’t want them to be left alone during the celebrations.
With more and more couples now including their beloved pooches in their weddings, it doesn’t come as much of a surprise that almost half (43%) of those already married regret not having their dog with them on their wedding day. However, for many the decision was out of their hands due to their venue not allowing pets (29%), while one in four agreed their dog was not well suited to a wedding environment. Others opted for some sun and sea and chose to get married abroad, so it wasn’t feasible to take their dogs.
The top ten ways couples will be including dogs in their wedding
- In official photographs (53%)
- Walking down the aisle (37%)
- Ring bearer (29%)
- Flower pup (28%)
- Pup-of-Honour/ Maid of Honour (18%)
- Involve them in the meal (13%)
- Included pet-related items on gift registry (12%)
- Best man (9%)
- Speeches (9%)
- Dancing with them/first dance (9%)
Adem Fehmi, Rover’s Canine Behaviourist comments: “Our dogs are much loved family members, and so it is only natural that we should want to include them in one of the most memorable days of our lives. Dogs embody love, fun and affection – qualities that are truly synonymous with weddings. Not to mention they are often adored mutually by their owners, so having them present can help bring a couple closer and add an even more special and poignant element to the occasion.”
However, Adem also offers a word of caution to pet parents: “While weddings are a wonderful chance to celebrate and enjoy ourselves, they can come with their own stresses. If you’re choosing to include your dog in the wedding, make sure their safety and comfort is a top priority. Ensure there is suitable care for them throughout the day whilst you are preoccupied celebrating and mingling with your other guests.”
With this in mind, Adem has provided his top tips for including dogs at your wedding:
1 Give your dog a role that suits their individual character and one that they will enjoy. Whilst some dogs might love a busy event, some might find attending a wedding overwhelming. If this applies to your dog, consider involving your dog in the quieter aspects of your day so they can still be involved and enjoy it without stress.
2. Consider organising a reputable dog sitter or walker from Rover to help care for your dog on your big day, preferably someone with experience of taking dogs to events. Provide a schedule of events and clear details of how you would like your dog to be involved. Ensure your dog has met them beforehand and is comfortable being with this individual prior to your big day. Positive reinforcers such as toys and treats can help here!
3. Think about the weather. Many weddings are held in spring and summer, which can bring warmer weather that could make your dog uncomfortable, or put them at risk. Ensure you have plenty of water available and tools such as cool coats. If the temperatures are too high, don’t be afraid to prioritise your dog’s wellness and leave them at home with a sitter over any role you hoped they might play in your wedding.
4. If asking your dog to perform a specific role, or wear a wedding themed harness or collar, make sure you practice this and introduce these items positively and well in advance of your big day. This will ensure your dog is confident and comfortable when it comes to their big moment.
5. Keep them away from alcohol, chocolate, and other toxic foods such as fruit cake that you might have at your wedding. This is where employing a guardian for your dog can really help – someone whose sole purpose is to look after them. They should be able to give their full attention and keep your dog away from any harm.
Find out more by visiting https://www.rover.com/uk/blog/pet-friendly-wedding/
