Training Tips for Wedding Day

Including your dog in your wedding is magical—but like any wedding party member, they need to know their role. Proper training is the key to ensuring your pup shines (and doesn’t steal) the spotlight. A bit of prep now means fewer surprises later—and a smoother, more joyful experience for everyone.

Whether your dog is walking down the aisle, posing for photos, or simply serving as your "Dog of Honour," here's how to set them up for success:

1. Practice the Path

If your dog will be part of the ceremony, especially walking down the aisle, start rehearsing early. Practice in a similar environment—like a hallway, long driveway, or even a quiet park path.

Use:

• Treats and praise to reinforce a positive experience

• Leashes or harnesses they’ll wear on the big day

• A cue like “go see [person’s name]” if they're walking to someone waiting at the end

If possible, visit the actual venue for a few short practice runs. Let them sniff, explore, and get familiar with the space.

Bonus Tip: Try rehearsing with music playing and some background chatter so they get used to wedding-like noise.

2. Reinforce Basic Commands

Reliable behaviour is your best friend on wedding day. Essential commands include:

• Sit

• Stay

• Come

• Heel

• Leave it

• Place (going to a mat or designated spot)

Start reinforcing these daily in different environments. If your dog is rusty or new to training, consider a few sessions with a positive reinforcement-based trainer. Even short, 10-minute training sessions can make a big difference.

Tip: Use the same commands and hand signals consistently. If someone else is handling your dog on the big day, teach them the cues too.

3. Get Them Used to the Buzz

Weddings are sensory-rich events: music, chatter, clapping, perfume, food, children, and new people everywhere. It’s a lot—even for the calmest dog.

To prepare:

• Take your dog to social events, farmers markets, or pet-friendly patios

• Play wedding music at home and reward calm behavior

• Let them wear their wedding attire during practice sessions

• Encourage interactions with friendly strangers

Gradually increasing exposure helps prevent overwhelm. The more familiar these experiences become, the more relaxed your pup will be on the big day.

4. Designate a Dedicated Handler

Assign a trusted person (not in the wedding party or tied up with photos) to be your dog’s handler. This is your dog's go-to human for the day. Their job is to:

• Monitor behavior

• Provide water, treats, and potty breaks

• Keep them calm and away from overstimulation

• Step in if your dog gets tired or stressed

Choose someone your dog knows and trusts if possible—or give them time to bond before the wedding. Bonus if they’re dog-savvy and comfortable with basic commands.

5. Consider a Trial Run

Set up a mock ceremony or a photoshoot at a park or backyard. This gives you a real sense of how your dog might behave with:

• People watching

• Music or noise

• Wearing their outfit

• Being led by someone else

It also reveals areas where your pup might need more training. You can turn it into a fun day—and capture cute pre-wedding content in the process! Wedding Day Dog Training Checklist

Prepare Your Pup for the Big Day

Before the Wedding

☐ Practice the aisle walk at least 2–3 times ☐ Rehearse commands in different environments ☐ Expose your dog to music, applause, and crowds ☐ Socialize your pup in public settings (markets, events) ☐ Introduce your dog to their wedding attire ☐ Schedule basic grooming or a nail trim ☐ Pack treats, water, waste bags, and a familiar toy

Key Commands to Practice

☐ Sit ☐ Stay ☐ Come ☐ Heel ☐ Leave it ☐ Place (go to a mat or designated spot)

Assignments & Prep

☐ Choose a calm, dog-savvy handler for the day ☐ Share your dog’s cues and routine with the handler ☐ Provide handler with leash, treats, and schedule ☐ Include your dog in the wedding timeline (arrival, breaks, etc.)

Extras

☐ Schedule a trial run or photoshoot in wedding attire ☐ Bring a calming aid (chews, spray, ThunderShirt, etc.) if needed ☐ Keep your energy positive—your dog will feel it too! Bonus Tip: Stay Calm Yourself

Dogs are deeply intuitive and will feed off your energy. If you're frazzled and anxious, they’ll pick up on it. But if you're calm, confident, and joyful—they’ll feel safe and relaxed too.

Consider using calming aids like a thunder shirt, lavender spray, or calming chews if your dog tends to be nervous in new situations. Check with your vet ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

Your dog doesn’t have to be perfectly trained—but with preparation, they can confidently participate in your special day. With the right guidance, a supportive handler, and a few practice rounds, your dog will be ready to walk the aisle, wagging with pride.