Walking Your Dog Down the Aisle

Many couples adopt dogs into their families long before they are married or have decided to have children. You have seen the photos of a couple in their early dating years, having a picnic on a sunny afternoon with their puppy holding a tennis ball in his mouth, or of a couple walking down a beach holding hands with a dog running circles around their feet, chasing seagulls. 

 It makes sense that a dog who was along on the hikes, drives, picnics and adventures with a couple before their engagement would be included in the wedding.

Many couples decide to include their dog in their wedding ceremony by training him to walk down the aisle as the ring bearer. Having the bride and groom's dog carry the rings symbolizes his importance in their family since a dog is usually the first shared responsibility before the couple takes care of home or decides to raise children.

If you choose to have your dog act as ring bearer be sure to consider the following tips to ensure the ceremony goes smoothly.

First: Make sure the wedding location allows dogs in the building. Some churches do not allow animals and some venues cannot allow pets due to food safety laws.

Second: Determine if your dog's temperament will allow for an unattended trip down the isle or if he will need a companion to guide him on a leash. You could ask a young relative to escort the dog to the alter.

Third: Wash and groom your dog before the ceremony so he looks his best and is free from allergens and dander. Be sure to allow him to go to the bathroom before the ceremony to avoid accidents ( Everyone gets a little nervous in front of crowds). 

Four: Determine if he will wear a costume (a dog tuxedo?).  Will the ring be attached to the end of a string held in his mouth or placed on a pillow attached to his back?

• Be sure to securely attach the rings with bag ties or pipe cleaners.

Warning: Dogs can be behave in unpredictable ways. Before attaching the expensive wedding rings consider using a decoy ring to hold the place of the actual rings.

Carrie Underwood plans to use her dog, Ace, in her wedding as the ring barer when she gets married this summer.

Share your experience. Do you have tips for couples who would like to include their dog in the wedding ceremony?