Planning an engagement and/or elopement can be a daunting task on its own. But, adding a dog to the event makes it even more challenging. Involving your pup can make the proposal unforgettable and unique, so let’s talk about how you can fold that extra layer into your special plans.
We always say dogs are family, but sometimes, it can be hard and challenging to include your pet in your big life decisions, but feels extra special. Let’s take a look at some dog-friendly proposal ideas to help you decide how to involve Fido on your big day.
How to Include Your Dog in Your Proposal
Let’s take a look at some dog-friendly marriage proposal ideas to help you decide how to involve Fido on your big days.
Attach the Engagement Ring to the Collar
This option is straightforward but allows you to still be creative. One example is to have your pup wake up your partner with the engagement ring around their collar in the morning. You can also ask your future spouse to take a look at the new collar of your pup.
With endless variations, we leave it up to your creativity. Just do not forget to buy a beautiful ribbon and loosely tie the ring in a bow around the neck. You want the ring to be noticeable and look amazing in the upcoming pictures.
Surprise Them with a Puppy
If you have been talking about getting a dog for a while, this is a perfect opportunity to wow them. Tell them you have a big surprise, and let their mind go through a million scenarios.
Once you are ready for the proposal, throw the puppy into their arms and watch their mind go off. Your partner will be so distracted by the new puppy that they will not notice you kneeling and popping the question.
Create a Custom Dog Tag
If you want a casual idea, we have you covered. Nowadays, many companies offer customized dog tags, and you can easily find one that says “Will you marry me” on it. Order the new tag and once the time comes, ask them if they can put it on your dog’s collar. Your future spouse will not expect you to pop the question while attaching a tag on your dog’s collar.
Hang a Sign on Your Dog’s Neck
The beauty of this idea is that you can go crazy creative with the questions. Here are some ideas:
- Mom/Dad, can we keep him?
- He promised me treats if you say yes.
- Will you marry my human?
- He wants to be my dad, please say yes.
- I can’t speak, but I think you should say yes.
- I’ve been practicing my best man duties, will you say yes?
These are just some examples. We leave the creativity up to you. Once you create the sign, hang it around your dog’s neck, and call them into a room where your dog waits patiently. It is time to get down on one knee afterward.
Play Fetch
This idea will take a bit of planning, but it is worth it. The trick is training your pet to fetch the engagement ring at the right moment. You will have to spend days, maybe even weeks training your pup. But in the end, it makes the moment fun and unique. Remember to tuck the ring safely inside a pouch. You do not want your dog eating it by mistake, right? Once your pup returns with the fetched ring, have him sit and pop the question.
Scavenger Hunt
Dogs love to sniff and look around, and you can use that to your advantage. Create a scavenger hunt for you, your future spouse, and your pup. Hide clues in meaningful locations and try to find them together. Step by step, you will get closer to the final proposal spot where you ask the question.
Movie Night Surprise
Movie nights are a great way to spend some time together, cuddle up, and relax. Instead of the usual Netflix movies, try something different. Put together a homemade movie about your relationship and play it for your future spouse. Of course, your pup can snuggle with you, and he might even be part of the movie. With the end credits rolling, you can ask the question you’ve been waiting to ask.
How to Include Your Dog In Your Elopement
Dogs are truly man’s best friend. Eloping with your pup by your side can make the day special and meaningful. Before we take a look at some ideas, we have to remind you that dogs are not allowed in every location. That can make the idea tricky but fear not. We have you covered.
Have Your Pup Walk You Down the Aisle
As the true best man or maid of honor, your pup can take on the role of taking you down the aisle. You can even dress your dog up in a special outfit for the occasion.
First Look with Your Dog
The first time the happy couple sees each other on the wedding day is always a special moment. Usually, couples orchestrate seeing each other before walking down the aisle and taking some photos. These photos, referred to as the first look, are a great way to include your pup in the celebration.
Write Vows to Your Dog
Why not make the traditional part of the wedding a bit crazy and unconventional? Besides exchanging vows between yourself, you can write some adventure vows for your pup as well. For example, vowing to never leave the dog behind. Your wedding day could use a unique touch of love and humor.
Make Your Dog the Camera Man
Do you want to see how the wedding looks from your pet’s perspective? Well, you can easily do that by putting a GoPro camera on your dog. Let him film the entire day, and then watch it together.
Dress Your Dog Up
A cute wedding bandana, bow tie, or flower wreath is a great way to dress your dog up. Take things up a notch with a cute new leash and collar that matches your flowers or color scheme.
Include Your Pet in Family Photos
No matter if you are having a large wedding or elopement, you can include your dog in family photos. Fair reminder: hire or find a friend to serve as your dog wrangler. He/she can bring your pup to and from different locations.
Have Your Dog Sign Your Marriage Certificate
If you happen to live in Colorado, you can have your dog sign your marriage certificate. Bring an ink pad and find a flat surface for the official paw print signature, and seal the deal!
Final Thoughts
Dogs can be part of marriage proposals and elopement days in different ways. If you like to have him there, you can make it work. Yes, it might take a bit more planning, but that is what makes this once-in-a-lifetime moment heartwarming. You can add a personal touch to your special occasion by having your dog carry the ring, walk you down the aisle, or stay by your side. Dogs are often a cherished part of the love story, so make the journey more meaningful by having them around.