Dogs are family, so of course they deserve a role on your elopement day or wedding day.
But dogs are also work, and planning is necessary to make sure everything goes smooth and well. There are ways to include them before and during your elopement, it just depends on what your vision looks like.
As someone who grew up with dogs, and loves dogs very much, I highly encourage couples to include their dogs because their special day just would not feel complete without them.
If your pup is part of your everyday love story, here are some fun (and photo-worthy) ways to include them on your Elopement Day.
Reach out here to plan your perfect Elopement Including your Pups!
1. Dress your Dog in Wedding Attire
From bow ties and flower collars to tiny veils or bandanas, your dog can be just as dressed up as you are (and probably steal the show, let’s be honest!).
2. Get ready with your Pups
Getting ready with your pups may be a good option if you want to take them to the airbnb but don’t necessarily want or can take them up the mountain.
3. Make your Dogs a Ring Bearer
Let them walk down the aisle with rings attached to their collar or toss a few petals as they trot by… chaos? Maybe. Adorable? Always. Make sure those rings are SECURED. The last thing we want to do is misplace the rings.
4. Have your dog sign your marriage license
Add a paw print alongside your signatures for a legal document that feels extra personal (and way cuter)
5. Incorporate them into your apparel
Think embroidered paw prints, custom cufflinks, charm photos, or even socks with their face—subtle or bold, your pup can be part of your look.
6. Include them in Your Engagement Session
If you cannot bring your pup for whatever reason, including them in your engagement session is a great way to still involve them in the celebrations!
Because let’s be honest… your dog would be offended if they weren’t included.
Take a look at this packing list if you plan to take your pups on your Elopement:
- Leash + backup leash – because the mountains are exciting and squirrels do not care that it’s your wedding day.
- Harness or collar with ID tags – cute and practical (bonus points if it matches the wedding vibe).
- Waste bags – leave no trace… yes, even on your elopement day.
- Food + treats – regular meals plus extra snacks for good behavior, photos, and bribery.
- Collapsible water bowl + plenty of water – especially important for hikes, altitude, and warm days.
- Dog-friendly attire or accessory – bandana, bowtie, flower collar, or cozy jacket depending on the season.
- Towel or wipes – muddy paws, drool, happy tears… it happens.
- Favorite toy or comfort item – helps them relax during downtime and unfamiliar locations.
- Crate or tie-out (if needed) – for safe breaks while you’re signing papers or doing portraits.
- Weather protection – booties for snow/rocks, jacket for cold, paw balm for rough terrain.
- First-aid basics for dogs – just in case adventure gets a little too adventurous.
- Designated dog handler – a trusted human whose only job is making sure your pup is happy, safe, and not stealing the cake.
At the end of the day, your elopement should feel like you and if your dog is part of your everyday life, they belong in this chapter too. Muddy paws, happy zoomies, crooked bowties and all, these are the moments you’ll laugh about forever. There’s no such thing as a “perfect” elopement… but there is one that includes your favorite third wheel.
Ready to plan an elopement that’s dog-approved and adventure-filled?
Let’s find a location your pup can explore, build a timeline with plenty of sniff breaks, and capture photos you’ll never stop smiling at.
