National Dress Up your Pet Day

Kiel Rucker PhotographyKiernan Michelle PhotoMolly & Co.Anna Delores PhotographyFig + Willow Studios

Jan 14

Groom putting outfit on dog at wedding — *Photo by Anna Delores Photography*

If there’s one thing we love almost as much as a beautiful Santa Barbara wedding, it’s a well-dressed pup. In honor of National Dress Up Your Pet Day, we’re celebrating all the four-legged friends who have stolen the show at weddings over the years—sometimes without even trying. The holiday is all about having fun, getting a little creative, and showing your pet some extra love, which sounds a lot like a wedding day to us.

If your dog is part of your everyday life, why not let them be part of your big day too? From walking down the aisle to posing for portraits, there are so many sweet ways to include your pup in your celebration.

Ways to Incorporate Your Dog Into Your Wedding Day

Your dog doesn’t have to be front and center all day long to make a memorable appearance. Here are a few popular (and practical) ways couples include their pets:

Ceremony cameo: Have your dog walk down the aisle as a flower pup or ring bearer.
Portrait time: Include them in your getting-ready photos or post-ceremony portraits.
Cocktail hour guest: Let them mingle briefly with guests during cocktail hour before heading home.
Personal touches: Feature your pup on your signage, drink stirrers, cake topper, or favors.
Honorary mentions: Name a signature cocktail after them or include them in your vows.

Cute & Creative Ways to Dress Up Your Dog

When it comes to wedding-day style, your pup can be just as fashionable as the rest of the wedding party. A few crowd-favorite ideas include:

Floral collars that coordinate with your wedding palette
Bandanas personalized with names, dates, or phrases like “Best Dog”
Bow ties for a classic, dapper look
Mini flower crowns for boho or garden weddings
Leashes with ribbon or greenery accents for a polished finishing touch

The key is keeping your dog comfortable—lightweight accessories and a good fit go a long way.

To celebrate National Dress Up Your Pet Day, we’re sharing a few of our favorite well-dressed wedding pups from weddings past. Be sure to click on each photo to see more from each event and get inspired for incorporating your own furry friend into your Santa Barbara wedding.