"I Do" and "Woof": How to Include Your Dog in Your Wedding Without the Chaos

The more fur, the merrier! When your ring bearer has 4 legs

The "Guest of Honor" Has Four Legs

For many of us in Wilton Manors, our dogs aren't just pets; they are family. So, when it comes time to plan the wedding, it feels wrong to leave them at home.

We all have that vision: Your golden retriever trotting down the aisle in a floral wreath, sitting politely while you exchange vows, and posing perfectly for photos.

In reality? Dogs bark at squirrels, eat bouquets, and get tired.

At Wilton Vida, we operate both a Ceremony division and a Pet Nutrition brand (On All Fours). We know exactly what it takes to pull off a pet-friendly wedding that is cute, safe, and chaos-free.

1. Match the Role to the Personality

Before you buy the doggy tuxedo, be honest about who your dog is.

• The Social Butterfly: Loves crowds, doesn't jump, sits on command.

  • Role: Ring Bearer or "Best Dog" (standing at the altar).

• The Anxious/Excited Pup: Loves you, but hates noise or new places.

  • Role: Photo Op only. Have them brought in for 15 minutes of pictures before the ceremony, then taken home to nap.

• The Wild Child: Zero attention span.

  • Role: The "Save the Date" model. Keep them safe at home on the big day.

2. The Golden Rule: Designate a "Wrangler"

Do not hold the leash yourself. You will be holding a bouquet, holding hands, or holding a microphone. You cannot hold a leash.

• The Mistake: Asking your Mom or Best Man to do it. They want to watch the wedding, not watch the dog.

• The Fix: Hire a professional pet sitter for the day or ask a friend who isn't in the wedding party to be the designated "Pet Wrangler." Their only job is to manage water, shade, and potty breaks.

3. Bribery is Key (The "On All Fours" Secret)

How do you get a dog to look at the camera or sit still during the vows? High-value rewards.

Your dog knows it’s a special day because the energy is different. Nerves can kill their appetite, or excitement can make them distracted.

• The Strategy: Skip the boring kibble. Bring the "good stuff."

• Our Recommendation: We always recommend packing a bag of On All Fours single-ingredient treats (like dehydrated liver or lung). They are smelly enough to grab their attention from 10 feet away but healthy enough that they won't get a tummy ache in the middle of the aisle.

4. The Logistics Check

• The Venue: Verify in writing that pets are allowed. Many beaches in Florida are "No Dogs" zones (except for specific spots like the Canine Beach).

• The Heat: Florida weddings are hot. If you are wearing a suit and sweating, your dog in a fur coat is overheating. Ensure there is a shaded spot and fresh water right near the altar.

• The Exit Strategy: Once the ceremony is over and the cocktail hour starts, the dog should go home. Loud music + drunk guests + food on the floor = a bad time for Fido.

5. Let It Be Imperfect

If your dog barks during the "Speak now or forever hold your peace" moment, laugh. If they roll in the grass in their tuxedo, let them.

The charm of having pets at your wedding is the unpredictability. It breaks the tension and reminds everyone that love is messy, fun, and best shared with your best friends.

Want a wedding that includes the whole family? We can help you plan the ceremony logistics and supply the bribe-worthy treats to make it happen. Shop On All Fours Treats | Book a Pet-Friendly Ceremony