Why Include Your Dog in Your Elopement
My dogs are my ride-or-die crew—the ones who’ve crashed my late-night snack runs and stared down my wildest chaos with epic-scale loyalty. That bond? It’s truly a force to be reckoned with. You’re not just sneaking them into a day—you’re weaving them into your wedding story (dirty paw prints and all). Careful planning and preparation can turn your elopement with your dog into a blast. Here’s how to pull it off with the least added stress.
Choosing a Dog-Friendly Elopement Location
Not every location is open and welcoming to host your four-legged posse, so picking the right place is key. National Parks look tempting, but most don’t allow dogs beyond the parking areas. Here are some location tips from a fellow dog lover:
Opt for National Forests or BLM Land
Wide-open spaces where dogs can roam (check local regs for off-leash vibes). National Forests and BLM lands are more dog friendly than many of their nearby National Parks.
Choose a dog-friendly town
Sedona, the San Juan Mountains, and Moab all have lodging and restaurants that are pup approved.
Pro tip: Dig into the rules ahead of time. A ranger’s frown can kill the vibe faster than a flat tire.
Preparing your dog for an elopement
Not every pup is up for big changes in their routine.
Here’s how to get them ready:
- Assess their vibe—crowds or sweltering hikes might not be their thing, so I’d pick a more chill spot. (My pups missed my elopement due to a heat spike over triple digits- it was hard, but the right decision)
- Test the gear—leash, harness, bowtie, or maybe a fun bandana. Your pup may need to feel it out first so it doesn’t stress them on the big day.
- Hit the vet—shots updated, meds packed, maybe a quick paw-check.
- Take a trial run—try a short adventure in an unknown place (assuming you are eloping somewhere new) to see how they hold up to all the new stimuli around them.
What to pack for your dog during an elopement
Eloping with dogs means your bag will get a bit more full. Here’s my must-have list:
- Water and a collapsible bowl—hydration is non-negotiable. A wider-mouth bottle is great for pouring any water left in the bowl back into the bottle for the next stop.
- Leash and harness—for when we are close to more trafficked areas and when squirrels or other pups tempt their feral side. There will be so much newness happening. Today is not the day to rely on perfect recall unless you have worked on it extensively ahead of time.
- Treats galore—think small, high-value treats that won’t mess with their tummy. I love the little pre-sized training treats you can snag at Chewy or Amazon- just be prepared to also have handiwipes to get the smell off your fingers. Bonus- If you know they are food-driven and like new people, I will even bring my treat pouch to wear so we can become best friends and get those happy tilt smiles at my camera!
- Waste bags—Pup poo bags are a must for leaving no trace in the wild we love. I also recommend a used jar or cannister to put the used bags in to minimize smell. I’ve used mini pringles tubes and old mayo jars (plastic) with great success. Bonus- they can be tossed at the next waste receptical!
- Weather gear—booties for heat or snow, a jacket for cold snaps. A camp towel comes in useful if there is water involved.
- Blanket or toy—their chill zone between the action. This is especially handy if you have taught *place* ahead of time.
And here are a couple that come in handy if your day involves a lot of hiking or is in a more remote area:
- First Aid Kit—tweazers for cactus thorns, Benadryl for allergic reactions, and bandages/ wraps for injuries. There are quite a few pre made kits available.
- Rescue Harness—if your pups are larger like mine, having a Fido Pro or similar rescue harness in case of an injury far away from the trailhead gives serious peace of mind. I never trek off on a longer hike without mine.
- Climbing Harness—this one is for you serious adventurers! Does your location include some scrambline and bouldering? You may consider something like this full body harness from Ruffwear. I use one for my fearless little Aussie who wants to join on the most extreme terrain so I can give her that extra lift when needed and keep her safe on climb walls.
It’s all about keeping them stoked and comfortable against the backdrop of your big day.
Creative ways to include your dog in the ceremony and elopement adventure
This is where the magic unfolds. Here are some ideas that have brought all the smiles:
Ring Bearer
Rings tucked in a harness pouch or baggy if they like to carry things—they can deliver them with style.
Floral Touch
A collar with blooms, simple and wild.
Witness Role
In self-solemnizing spots like Colorado, you can have them “paw-sign” your license. Not self solemnizing? You can make paw certs of your own as memorabilia.
First Look Buddy
Bounding in for all the feels, caught on camera. It’s raw and destined to steal the show.
Split the Day
Have them come for a portion of the day, then return with a loved one while we venture off for your portraits.
Dog-friendly elopement attire ideas
Comfort’s the goal, but a little flair’s too fun to skip:
- Bandana or floral collar—easy, chic, and photo-ready.
- Bowtie—if they are chill with it, lean into that swagger.
- Color match—tying their look to yours keeps the vibe cohesive.
- No over-the-top fuss—keep it minimal if they aren’t used to wearing extra gear. Keep it similar to their everyday routine or plan to get them used to it (see above).
Bringing a dog handler for your elopement
I can’t go racing after them if a critter darts by mid-vows. A trusted pup-handler is the secret to keeping stress to a minimum:
- To help keep them posed for pics while I focus on the moment.
- To take them for a romp during the quiet moments.
- Choose a known friend or a hired pro—either way, it’s a solid move.
- Less chaos, more magic. Done.
Post-elopement plans with your dog
They’ve been the goodest boy or girl—time to wind down right:
- Opt for a dog-friendly Airbnb to crash at—lush beds, maybe a yard.
- Chill with a special treat—a bone seals the deal.
- The split day option—Let them nap off the adventure while we soak in the day.
Alternatives if your dog can’t join the Elopement
There are still fun ways to include your furry friends if they can’t make the actual elopement day:
- Bring a memento to use in your detail photos—I’ve seen little statues, big head cutouts, framed pictures, paw prints, and more.
- Sketch them onto invites—subtle and crafty.
- Wear socks with their faces— there are several companies that will print images of your fur kids on socks, ties, t-shirts etc. (this is one of my personal faves).
- Give them a vow shoutout—heartfelt without the mush.
- Facetime them—this is a fun way for them to be present in the moment with you without physically being there. You’ll need to coordinate a time to call up whoever you have watching them to check in.
Final Thoughts on eloping with your dog
Your pups aren’t just a tag-along—they are the slobbery heartbeat of your wild ride. With some planning and forethought, they can leave their puppy kisses and paw prints all over your elopement story. Whether they’re bounding through the dirt or wagging from back home, your day can include your furry best friend. You’re crafting something epic, something that unfolds with their vibe woven in.
FAQ: Including Your Dog in Your Elopement
Hi! I’m Shannon Durazo
A former project manager turned your Southwest elopement photographer, go-to problem solver, Fellow Dog Lover, and Adventure Buddy
Are you ready for a nature-filled wedding or an epic elopement adventure? Let’s make it unforgettable. I’m here to do more than take photos—I’m here to help you create a day that feels as incredible as it looks. From scouting jaw-dropping locations and sharing vendor recommendations to crafting timelines that catch that golden-hour magic, we’re building more than a wedding day; we’re creating art while putting your experience first. Whether it’s hiking a mountain, off-roading to a secret spot, or chasing sunsets, we’ll make memories as unique and extraordinary as your love story.
I specialize in capturing both intimate elopements and weddings in Arizona, Colorado, Utah, and Northern New Mexico.
