This guide covers everything you need to know about including your dog in your Christchurch wedding, from the possibilities to the practical realities (and why you might want professional help to pull it off!).
Is Your Dog Wedding-Ready?
Before you start shopping for a doggy tuxedo or flower crown, let’s have an honest conversation about whether your dog should attend your wedding. I say this with love: not every dog is suited for wedding day chaos, and that’s completely okay!
Your Dog Might Thrive at a Wedding If They:
- Love people and crowds – If your dog gets excited (not anxious) when new people arrive at your home, that’s a great sign
- Can handle noise – Music, cheering, clapping, and laughter won’t faze them
- Have basic obedience – They reliably respond to sit, stay, and come commands
- Travel well – Car rides to the venue won’t stress them out
- Are comfortable in new environments – They adapt quickly to unfamiliar places
- Can settle down – After initial excitement, they can relax and observe
Your Dog Might Struggle If They:
- Have anxiety around strangers – Weddings mean lots of new faces
- Are reactive to other dogs – Many venues are near public areas with other dogs
- Get overwhelmed by noise – Thunder-phobic dogs often struggle with wedding celebrations
- Are very young or very old – Puppies are unpredictable; senior dogs may find long events exhausting
- Have health issues – The stress might exacerbate existing conditions
- Pull on the leash or jump on people – This becomes problematic with formal attire
The Bottom Line: You know your dog best. If you’re reading this list thinking “hmm, I’m not sure,” that uncertainty is telling you something. But even if your dog can’t physically attend, there are beautiful ways to include them (more on that later).
Step One: Check Your Christchurch Wedding Venue’s Pet Policy
Before you do anything else, confirm your venue allows dogs. Many Christchurch wedding venues have specific policies about pets on the property.
Questions to Ask Your Venue:
- Are dogs permitted on the property? (Get this in writing!)
- Are there restrictions on where dogs can go? (Some venues allow dogs for the ceremony but not inside reception spaces)
- Is there a pet bond or additional fee?
- Are dogs required to be on-leash at all times?
- Is there a quiet indoor space available if the dog needs a break?
- Where can dogs toilet? (Important for longer events)
- Are there any safety concerns? (Ponds, pools, livestock, busy roads)
- Do you need to provide proof of vaccinations or public liability insurance?
Dog-Friendly Wedding Venues Around Christchurch:
While policies can change, these venues have historically welcomed dogs at weddings:
- Larcomb Vineyard, Rolleston – Beautiful rural setting with space for dogs to explore
- Isaac Theatre Royal – Check their current pet policy for events
- Private properties in Fendalton, Merivale, and Cashmere – Often the most flexible option
- Canterbury Museum Gardens – Outdoor spaces (requires council permission)
- Banks Peninsula venues – Many rural properties welcome dogs
Always confirm directly with your specific venue – policies change and each event is different.
Creative Ways to Include Your Dog in Your Wedding
Once you’ve confirmed your venue allows dogs, the fun part begins! Here are the most popular (and most successful) ways to include your furry friend.
1. Ring Bearer (The Classic)
This is the role everyone imagines, and it’s adorable when it works. Your dog walks down the aisle wearing a special pillow or box attached to their collar or harness, carrying the rings (or symbolic rings – more on that in a moment).
This is actually one of the trickier roles because:
- Your dog needs to walk the entire aisle length without getting distracted
- They need to be comfortable wearing the ring bearer accessory
- They’ll likely get VERY excited when they see you at the altar (expect zoomies)
- Someone needs to manage them after they complete the walk
Professional Tip: Use fake rings on the pillow and have the real rings with your best man or maid of honour. This is standard practice even with human ring bearers! If your dog decides to shake, roll, or zoom halfway down the aisle, your actual rings are safe.
Success Strategy: Practice the aisle walk at home using high-value treats (think: cheese, chicken, hot dogs -whatever makes your dog’s brain short-circuit with joy). Set up a mock aisle in your garden and practice multiple times in the week leading up to the wedding.
2. Aisle Walk Companion
Your dog walks down the aisle with you, your partner, a parent, or a member of the wedding party. This is often easier than the ring bearer role because someone is actively handling them.
Beautiful Variations:
- Dog walks with bride’s father (or whoever is walking the bride down the aisle)
- Dog walks with both grooms or both brides
- Dog walks ahead of flower girl/ring bearer as a “flower dog”
- Dog walks with couple during recessional (walking back up the aisle as newlyweds)
Your dog needs to walk nicely on leash without pulling, jumping, or stopping to sniff every interesting smell along the way. That’s a tall order in an exciting new environment!
3. Ceremony Attendant (Dog of Honour / Best Dog)
Your dog stands up with the wedding party during the ceremony. They might sit/stay with a groomsman, bridesmaid, or at the feet of the officiant.
This Works Best For: Calm, well-trained dogs who can hold a sit/stay for 20-30 minutes. Labs, Golden Retrievers, and other “eager to please” breeds often excel at this.
The Reality Check: Even the best-trained dog might:
- Bark or whine during emotional moments (your vows, the kiss)
- Get restless and start wandering
- Decide it’s time for a lie-down mid-ceremony
- Need an unexpected toilet break
All of this is completely normal dog behaviour! Your guests will find it endearing, not disruptive. But you need to be okay with unpredictability.
4. Photo Session Star
Your dog isn’t present for the ceremony but joins you for formal photos afterward. This is actually my most recommended option for couples with energetic or anxious dogs.
Why This Works So Well:
- Controlled environment with fewer people
- Shorter time commitment for the dog (30-45 minutes vs. several hours)
- You get all the beautiful photos without ceremony stress
- Can be done at a separate location if needed
- Photographer can take their time getting the perfect shot
Your photographer needs to be comfortable with dogs and know how to get their attention. Discuss this in advance and consider whether you need someone specifically to handle the dog during photos.
5. Cocktail Hour Guest
Your dog mingles with guests during the post-ceremony cocktail hour. This is perfect for social butterfly dogs who love attention.
Guests Absolutely Love This – There’s something about a dog in wedding attire that makes everyone smile. Your dog becomes an instant celebrity.
The Reality Check:
- Someone needs to actively supervise them the entire time
- They need to be comfortable with strangers petting them
- Food and drinks are everywhere!
- Your dog might get overstimulated or tired
- Not all guests are dog people
6. Getting Ready Photos
Your dog hangs out with you while you’re getting hair and makeup done, getting dressed, or having pre-ceremony portraits taken.
This Creates the Most Authentic, Emotional Photos – You’re relaxed, your dog is comfortable in a familiar environment (if you’re getting ready at home), and the moments are genuine.
The Reality Check:
- Dog hair on your wedding dress/suit is almost guaranteed
- Claws and delicate fabrics don’t mix
- Your dog might get underfoot while people are trying to work
- Someone needs to take the dog away before you leave for the ceremony
Professional Tip: Schedule this early in the day, get your photos, then have someone take the dog home or to a sitter before you put on your final outfit.
The Logistics You Need to Think About
Transportation
How does your dog get to the venue?
Your options:
- Someone drives them separately – But who? Everyone in the wedding party is busy getting ready, travelling together, or needed for photos
- Dog rides with the couple – May add to the anxiety of an already overwhelming day
- Dog rides with parents/family – Works if they’re not already stressed with their own wedding day responsibilities
- Professional pet transport – Safest option but requires booking in advance
Consider: If your venue is 30+ minutes away, that’s significant travel time for a dog who might already be anxious about the disruption to their routine.
The Day-Of Care Reality
Your wedding day timeline probably looks something like this:
- 8:00 AM – Hair and makeup starts
- 12:00 PM – Getting dressed and final preparations
- 2:00 PM – Travel to venue
- 3:00 PM – Ceremony
- 3:30 PM – Photos (1-2 hours)
- 5:30 PM – Cocktail hour
- 6:30 PM – Reception begins
- 11:00 PM – Reception ends
Now think about your dog’s needs during this time:
- Feeding (probably won’t eat normally due to excitement)
- Water (constantly, especially if nervous)
- Toilet breaks (every 2-3 hours minimum)
- Exercise (nervous energy needs an outlet)
- Quiet time (dogs get overwhelmed and need breaks)
- Monitoring stress levels
- Managing interactions with guests
- Keeping them away from food tables
- Grooming touch-ups (dirt, drool, disheveled attire)
- Safety (water, cars, other animals)
The Brutal Truth: Someone needs to do all of this. And that someone can’t be you – you’re getting married! It can’t be your wedding party – they have roles to fulfill. It can’t be your parents – they’re busy with their own responsibilities and want to enjoy the day.
The “Handler” Problem
Many couples plan to have a friend or family member “watch the dog” during the wedding. This sounds simple, but consider what you’re actually asking:
You’re asking someone to:
- Miss parts of your ceremony/reception to care for the dog
- Not fully enjoy the celebration because they’re on dog duty
- Handle an excited dog in a formal environment
- Know when the dog needs a break (requires understanding of dog behaviour)
- Coordinate with vendors (photographer, venue staff, caterers)
- Problem-solve if something goes wrong
- Potentially leave early to take the dog home
And here’s the thing: Most well-meaning friends and family say “Of course I’ll do it!” without fully understanding what it entails. Then on the day, they’re torn between wanting to watch you exchange vows and needing to take the dog outside for a toilet break.
Weather: The Christchurch Wild Card
We all know Christchurch weather can be unpredictable. A beautiful summer day can turn into wind, rain, or unexpected heat.
Hot Weather Concerns:
- Dogs in formal attire can overheat quickly
- Limited shade at outdoor venues
- Increased panting can look like stress in photos
- Dehydration risk
Cold/Wet Weather Concerns:
- Muddy paws (and muddy wedding dress)
- Wet dog smell during indoor reception
- Dogs with thunder anxiety (Canterbury storms are intense!)
- Need for shelter and warmth
Why Most Christchurch Couples Choose a Professional Wedding Dog Attendant
After reading the logistics above, you might be thinking: “This is more complicated than I realised.” You’re absolutely right – and you’re not alone.
This is exactly why professional wedding dog attendant services exist. And if you’re getting married in Christchurch, I have good news: you’re in the right place.
I’m Lesley, founder of VIPets, and I’ve spent over 10 years providing premium pet care in Christchurch. In 2024, I launched Christchurch’s only professional wedding dog attendant service after seeing countless couples struggle with exactly what I’ve described above.
What a Professional Wedding Dog Attendant Actually Does
Think of me as your dog’s personal wedding planner and day-of coordinator. Here’s what professional wedding dog attendant service includes:
Before the Wedding:
- Consultation: We discuss your vision, your dog’s personality, and create a customized plan
- Venue coordination: I contact your venue directly to confirm pet policies and logistics
- Vendor communication: I coordinate with your photographer, planner, and other vendors
- Timeline planning: We map out exactly when and where your dog will be throughout the day
- Training recommendations: I provide guidance on how to prepare your dog (aisle walk practice, attire comfort, etc.)
- Contingency planning: We discuss backup plans for every scenario
On the Wedding Day:
- Transportation: I pick up your dog and transport them safely to the venue in my air-conditioned vehicle with GPS tracking
- Pre-ceremony care: Your dog gets exercise, toilet breaks, water, and time to decompress before the excitement
- Grooming and styling: I handle all attire fitting and last-minute grooming
- Ceremony coordination: Whether ring bearer, aisle walk, or ceremony attendant, I manage every detail
- Behavior management: I watch for stress signals and provide calm, professional handling throughout
- Photo assistance: I work with your photographer to get those perfect shots (and I know all the tricks for getting dogs to look at the camera!)
- Continuous care: Feeding, hydration, toilet breaks, rest periods, safety monitoring
- Professional photography: You’ll receive 20+ photos from your dog’s perspective
- Safe return: Your dog is transported home when their role is complete
What Makes VIPets Different:
- 10+ years of professional pet care experience in Christchurch
- Specialised in reactive and senior dogs: I understand canine behavior and stress signals
- Pet First Aid certified with emergency protocols in place
- Fully insured with public liability coverage
- GPS tracking during transportation so you always know where your dog is
- Professional photography included (I’m already capturing your dog’s day!)
- One-on-one care – Your dog receives individual attention
- Local expertise – I know Christchurch venues, photographers, and wedding vendors
Investment in Professional Wedding Dog Attendant Services
VIPets wedding dog attendant services start at $250 (our minimum booking fee).
Typical pricing includes:
- $50 per hour for wedding day care
- $1.50 per km for travel (with $40 minimum travel fee)
- All the services mentioned above included in the hourly rate
Common scenarios:
- Photos only (2 hours): $250 (minimum booking)
- Ceremony + photos (4 hours) + Rolleston travel: $500
- Full day ceremony through cocktail hour (6 hours) + travel: $640+
Optional add-ons:
- Rehearsal attendance: $80
- Pre-wedding training session: $90/hour
- Mobile grooming: $100-180
- Extended photo package (40+ images): $80
- Overnight pet sitting (before or after wedding): $120
Why This is Worth Every Dollar:
Consider what you’re spending on your wedding: venue, catering, photographer, flowers, attire. You’re investing thousands to make your day perfect. Your dog deserves the same level of professional care.
More than that – you deserve peace of mind. You deserve to walk down that aisle without worrying about whether someone remembered to give your dog water. You deserve to enjoy cocktail hour without wondering if your dog is stressed. You deserve to be fully present for your own wedding.
That’s what professional wedding dog attendant services provide.
If Your Dog Can’t Attend: Beautiful Alternative Ways to Include Them
Maybe you’ve read this far and realized your dog wouldn’t enjoy attending the wedding. That’s not only okay – it’s actually the most loving decision you can make. Here are meaningful ways to include them in spirit:
1. Custom Cake Topper
Commission a custom cake topper featuring you, your partner, and your dog. It’s a sweet nod that appears in all your reception photos.
2. Portrait Display
Create a beautiful framed photo of your dog with a sign like “We know I couldn’t be here today, but I’m with you in spirit. Love, [Dog’s Name].” Display it at the reception entrance or near the guest book.
3. Signature Cocktail
Name a signature cocktail after your dog! The bar menu becomes a conversation starter and a tribute.
4. Paw Print Preservation
Have your dog’s paw print incorporated into your wedding:
- On your wedding invitations or programs
- As part of your wedding ceremony (ink pad for a canvas signing)
- On your guest book
5. Donation in Their Name
In lieu of wedding favours, make a donation to a local Christchurch animal rescue organisation in your dog’s name. Include a small card at each place setting explaining the donation.
6. Custom Cufflinks or Jewelry
Have your dog’s photo printed on cufflinks for the groom or a locket for the bride. They’re with you all day, just hidden.
7. Reserved Chair
Reserve a ceremony seat for your dog with their photo, a flower arrangement, and a small sign acknowledging their presence in spirit.
Final Preparation Checklist: 2 Weeks Before Your Wedding
If you’re including your dog in your wedding (with or without professional help), here’s your final checklist:
Two Weeks Before:
- ☐ Confirm venue pet policy in writing
- ☐ Notify photographer that dog will be in photos
- ☐ Purchase/prepare dog’s wedding attire
- ☐ Practice wearing attire at home (10-15 minutes daily)
- ☐ Practice aisle walk or ceremony role (2x daily)
- ☐ Confirm who is handling dog throughout the day
- ☐ Pack dog’s emergency kit (treats, water bowl, leash, waste bags, first aid, favorite toy)
- ☐ Vet visit if needed (vaccinations, health check)
- ☐ Grooming appointment scheduled
- ☐ Update ID tags with current contact info
One Week Before:
- ☐ Weather contingency plan finalized
- ☐ Transportation arranged and confirmed
- ☐ Dog’s timeline written out and shared with handler
- ☐ Emergency contact list prepared
- ☐ Veterinary authorization form signed (if using professional service)
- ☐ Final coordination call with photographer/venue/handler
Day Before:
- ☐ Dog gets good exercise (but not exhausting)
- ☐ Normal feeding schedule maintained
- ☐ Early bedtime for good rest
- ☐ Wedding attire and accessories ready to go
- ☐ Favorite treats packed
- ☐ Confirm pickup/transport time
Wedding Day Morning:
- ☐ Normal breakfast at regular time
- ☐ Light exercise (walk, not intense play)
- ☐ Fresh water available
- ☐ Toilet break before departure
- ☐ Quick brush/wipe down
- ☐ Double-check emergency kit packed in vehicle
Frequently Asked Questions About Dogs at Weddings
What if my dog has an accident during the ceremony?
It happens! This is why having a dedicated handler (preferably a professional) is crucial. They can quickly and discreetly remove the dog, clean up if needed, and handle the situation while you remain focused on your ceremony. Most venues expect this possibility and have cleaning supplies ready.
Should I use real rings with my ring bearer dog?
Absolutely not! This is standard advice even for human ring bearers. Use fake/decorative rings on the pillow and keep the real rings with your best man or maid of honor. Dogs can shake, roll, jump, or drop the pillow – don’t risk losing your actual rings!
What’s the best time to include my dog?
For most dogs, the ceremony and formal photos (2-3 hours total) is ideal. This gives you the meaningful inclusion without overtiring or overstimulating your dog. Full-day attendance works best for exceptionally calm, well-trained dogs with professional handling.
How do I find a reliable wedding dog attendant in Christchurch?
Look for services with professional pet care experience (not just dog walking), pet first aid certification, liability insurance, and positive reviews from past wedding clients. At VIPets, I’ve been providing professional pet care in Christchurch for over 10 years and specialise in wedding dog attendant services.
What if my dog gets overwhelmed or stressed?
This is why working with a professional who understands canine behavior is essential. I watch for stress signals (panting, lip licking, whale eye, pacing) and immediately intervene – taking the dog to a quiet space, providing water, giving them a break from the action. Your dog’s wellbeing always comes first.
What about reactive or anxious dogs?
With proper planning, management, and realistic expectations, many reactive dogs can successfully participate in limited wedding roles. The key is keeping them under threshold – managing the environment so they never reach the point of reactivity. This requires professional expertise.
How far in advance should I book a wedding dog attendant?
For summer weddings (December-March), book 6-9 months in advance. For other times of year, 3-6 months is typically sufficient. However, I’ve successfully managed bookings with just a few weeks’ notice when needed!
Your Dog Deserves to Be Part of Your Story
Here’s what I know after a decade of caring for Christchurch’s most beloved pets: your dog isn’t just a pet. They’re the one who greets you after bad days, celebrates with you on good days, and loves you unconditionally through everything in between.
Including your dog in your wedding – whether physically present or honored in spirit – is a beautiful way to acknowledge that your family includes four legs and a tail.
But it needs to be done thoughtfully. Your dog’s wellbeing matters. Your peace of mind matters. Your ability to be fully present on your wedding day matters.
If you’re planning a Christchurch wedding and want your dog to be part of it, I’d love to help make that happen. Whether you need full wedding day coordination or just want to chat through your options, I’m here.
Because at VIPets, we believe that First Class Care isn’t just a tagline – it’s a promise. Your Very Important Pet deserves nothing less.
Ready to Include Your Dog in Your Christchurch Wedding?
Let’s create a custom plan for your furry family member.
Contact VIPets today for a free consultation!
