Tips On Training Your Dog To Be A Part Of Your Wedding

When you walk down the aisle on your wedding day, this is by far one part of your life you’ll never forget. Since our pets are such an important part of our family, many couples want them to participate in this life-changing ceremony. Whether they’re an adorable ring-bearer walking down the aisle or just being a part of the process including pictures, there’s some simple ways we can prepare them for this event.

Some canines are already a part of our nuptials before we even tie the knot. They’re pictured in our invitations or having a candid shot in our “save the date” announcements. But if you’ve already decided your four-legged, best friend deserves a part in your ceremony, along with your best man or maid of honor, here’s some tips on how you can include them in this day to remember forever:

Walking Woes And Wonders

One way couples have given their favorite animal companion to be an important part of the ceremony is to have them walk down the aisle as a ring bearer or “flower girl.” Obviously this is a trainable event, but remember a few things to make this process much easier for them:

• Training them to perform this type of task is all about continuous repetition and using positive reinforcement techniques. Don’t wait until the last minute to begin this process.

• Even though you may not have your venue available to train them repeatedly to perform this special job, you can always create an imaginary aisle, down a hallway in your home or an area in your backyard lined with a few chairs to recreate the environment.

• Retrievers often enjoy carrying things, but for other breeds, you can always put the ring or flowers on their “person,” attached to their collar or outfit for example.

• Your canine doesn’t need to perform this function alone, they can carry the ring or flowers along with someone else who’s well-dressed and carrying a leash to accompany them down the aisle.

• Speaking of outfits, get them comfortable wearing their formal attire long before the event itself and make sure it doesn’t interfere with their “bodily functions.”

Don’t discount certain breeds of dogs that you may not think would be conducive to this type of venue. For example, some terriers are known to be stubborn and feisty, but they also love being the center of attention. And also don’t expect perfection from any of them, since some of the cutest children performing this type of service are best when they improvise a little.

Picture Perfect

Having those perfect pictures to remember this day is an important and vital part of this unforgettable day. This is another time to get your dog into their formal attire and more comfortable in front of the lense. Practice with them, reward them for staying still and get them accustomed to this time meant exclusively for the bridal party, close friends and family members.

Strangers And Friends

Even the most friendly of our furry companions can sometimes be intimidated or alarmed by large groups of people and those they don’t know on a regular basis. Before the big day, be sure to introduce them to bigger crowds, take them to arenas where they’ll encounter large groups, farmer’s markets, fairs and gatherings where there’s plenty of people present.

With a little bit of planning, forethought, some special training and treats, our four-legged friends will be just as happy and comfortable as we are during this special day. If you’ll be including them in your ceremony and reception, make sure they’re receptive to all the unforgettable events has to offer them, our family and friends.