By far, one of the best parts of eloping is having the freedom to make your day exactly what you want. For many couples, eloping gives them the freedom to include their furry friend in as many aspects of their day as they desire. The idea of having their dog along for the ride adds just another layer to the intention and emotion surrounding a wedding day. If you’re wondering how to include your dog in your elopement to make your day even more special, keep reading. 

As a Montana elopement and intimate wedding photographer (and planner), I love when my couples include their best friend. While some may say it’s a “generational” thing, there’s something so heartwarming about watching a couple love on their sweet furry friend throughout their day.

Including Your Dog in Your Elopement

Plan Ahead

Planning ahead for your elopement as a couple is integral to ensure your day goes off without a hitch. But if you hope to include your dog in your elopement, it’s just as important to prepare for your 3rd wheel!

1. Research Dog-Friendly Locations
   
   Spoiler alert: Many National Parks have restrictions in place when it comes to pets. While most allow dogs in some capacity, it’s important to be aware of location (and hike) restrictions. If it’s important to you to include your dog in your elopement, you’ll want to ensure that your dog can attend. The easiest way to find a dog-friendly National Park is on the National Park Service website. There, you’ll be able to search by state and park.
   
   If you’re opting to elope in a place other than a National Park, just remember to be aware that restrictions may still exist in other locations.
   
2. Designate a Dog-Sitter
   
   While having your dog by your side during your vows is heartwarming, it is crucial to designate a responsible dog-sitter to care for them during the ceremony (and photos). This person will ensure that your furry friend is safe, happy, and comfortable while you focus on exchanging those tear-jerking promises.
   
   
3. Assess Your Dog’s Behavior
   
   It’s no secret that not every dog is a happy-go-lucky, face-licking, “pet me” kinda dog. Be honest with yourselves when considering your furry friend’s behavior. Are they protective or reactive? Do they struggle to behave on a leash or be around large crowds? Have no fear! Spend intentional time leading up to your big day exposing your pup to new environment, sounds, and crowds.
   
4. Pick the Perfect Time of Year
   
   Choosing the right time of year for your elopement is not only essential weather-wise, but also for your pup’s comfort. Take into account their preferences and needs, and plan accordingly to ensure they have a great time, too! Your Great Pyrenees is probably not going to be stoked on a mid-day elopement in Joshua Tree National Park. And your Chihuahua may not be happy to stand in 4 feet of snow in Glacier National Park.
   
5. Leave No Trace
   
   When including your dog in your elopement, it’s essential to respect nature and wildlife. By following the Leave No Trace principles, such as keeping your dog on a leash/cleaning up after them, you’ll help preserve the environment for future generations. (Interested in learning more about Leave No Trace? I’m a LNT Photographer! I’d love to chat more about taking care of our planet.)
   
6. Find Accommodations + Activities
   
   Just as finding the perfect location and time of year to elope is important, so is finding dog-friendly accommodations and activities. I highly recommend VRBO and BringFido for the best recommendations. As for hikes, if you’re planning on a National Park elopement, be sure to refer to the NPS website and AllTrails for details.
   

Pack Accordingly

When your day finally arrives, be sure to have your dog’s needs covered by packing accordingly. While your ‘dog-sitter’ will likely be in charge of feeding your pup, make sure you have a bag with all the essentials to keep your furbaby comfortable and happy. Remember to bring their favorite toys, water, treats, food, and even a blanket (if needed) to create a safe and familiar place for them. This is also a great time to utilize puzzle toys, Kongs, or bones to keep them occupied.

Alternative Ways to Include Your Dog in Your Elopement

If a dog-friendly hike isn’t feasible, there are still numerous ways to involve your furry friend on your big day. Whether you’re eloping in a land far, far away or the logistics don’t work out, you still deserve to have the elopement of your dreams. As an elopement photographer and planner, brainstorming ways for my couples to still include their dog in their elopement is something that brings me the utmost joy.

Include Your Dog in Your Details

Some of the most subtle, yet meaningful ways to include your dog in your elopement is through your details. Whether you choose to include your pup in your engagement photos and save-the-dates, or you opt for a unique marriage license signature (that’s right, in some places, your pup can sign your license!), there are options for every couple. Some other ideas would be a monogramed necklace with your pup’s initial or your groom wearing a tie that matches your dog’s bandana.

Dog-Inspired Details

Get even more creative and infuse your dog’s personality into the celebration! Name a signature drink after them or include them on a cake topper. These small touches can add the sweetest touch of whimsy and charm to your elopement.

Intimate Picnic or Mini-Ceremony

Still have your heart set on including your dog in your ceremony? Organize an intimate ceremony and a dog-friendly picnic at your favorite park. Their presence will make the moment even more meaningful and unforgettable.

Opt for a 2 Day Elopement Experience

This is a great way to have the best of both worlds without worrying about as many moving parts. Have one day with your pup(s) and one day with them in dog-friendly locations. Talk about goals.

Your elopement is a celebration of love and unity. And including your dog in this intimate affair can make it all the more special. Whether you choose a dog-friendly hike or incorporate them into wedding details, their presence will undoubtedly add joy and warmth to your day. I want to encourage you to cherish every moment with your furry companion. They are, after all, an essential part of your journey together. So, embrace the opportunity to include your dog in your elopement while creating memories that will last a lifetime. Talk about the best day ever.

Still searching for elopement planning tips? CLICK HERE for the latest on the blog. And if you’re planning a Montana elopement but aren’t sure where to begin, I’VE GOTCHA COVERED. Are you ready to wander?