Dogs in wedding photos

Two dogs in weddings wear bandanas for their humans ; one says

Including your dogs in your Colorado wedding or elopement photos is a memorable way to celebrate your bond. With the right planning and a little flexibility, you’ll have incredible memories (and adorable
photos) that showcase the loves of your life—both human and canine! I believe strongly in including our fur babies whenever possible. So much so that I donate $50 from every session with a dog to Humane Colorado (formerly Denver Dumb Friends League).

Technically, I have also counted horses, cats, and snakes, so include
whatever you want! Together, we can make sure even more animals find a loving home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most common questions I hear people ask about how to include dogs in wedding photos, along with some of my favorite tips:

Can a dog sign our marriage license in Colorado?

Sometimes, but it is beginning to depend on where in Colorado you obtain a marriage license. Colorado is one of few states that allows “self-solemnization”, which means you don’t legally need to have any
witnesses or an officiant. Having a witness (human or canine) sign your license is totally optional.

However, some counties are starting to change this policy to no longer recognize animal witnesses. As of the writing of this post in March 2025, Adams county in Denver metro was still allowing paw prints.

However, Denver county itself was not. The best practice would be to ask the county clerk’s office in person when you pick up your license. They will know the definitive and current answer to this question. If they tell you they will not accept a paw print, you can always ask to purchase an extra copy of the license. It won’t be “official” since you will never mail it in, but you can keep it as your own keepsake if you’d like. If you are going to include a paw print on your license, make sure to bring a non-toxic ink
pad!

Two dogs in weddings at the ceremony. In one, the dog howls in approval during the first look. In the other, the pup looks for a tiny bit of shade from the humans.

Two photos of dogs in wedding ceremonies; in one he looks up at the ring exchange. In the other he lies with a paw straight in the air.

Are dogs allowed within state and national parks?

MOST state parks in Colorado allow dogs, with certain restrictions. They must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet, there may be blocked off areas due to sensitive vegetation or wildlife, and there’s a fine for not cleaning up after them. Great Sand Dunes, Mesa Verde, and Gunnison National Parks also allow dogs on leash. Unfortunately, Rocky Mountain National Park does not allow dogs on any of the trails at all.

There are creative ways to still include your dog if you will be in RMNP; dogs are allowed in the
campsite and parking areas, as well as the areas just outside the park boundaries (which are still beautiful). The safest bet before planning on bringing your dog into any particular location is to work with someone who knows the local regulations and will make sure you don’t set yourself up for
disappointment… or a hefty fine. The good news is, you’re already on the website of one of those people!

How can I include my dogs in our wedding or elopement photos?

The most obvious way is to have them in charge of the rings! If the
thought of your pup being in charge of your wedding bands makes you
nervous, you can always attach a “stunt box” to the collar for photos
and awwwwws, but have the actual rings in the care of a person.
Some dogs are totally content just hanging out next to you while you
exchange vows, but you will know their temperament well enough to
decide if that’s the case.
Attach a Go-Pro (or similar camera) to your dog to see their unique
view. And hope it’s not just their own butt all day. You can even rent a
GoPro if this is the only time you’ll use one. There are several
online companies that do this, but I prefer to shop locally somewhere like ProPhoto.
Include them in your first dance. Whether you have a bigger
athletic pup who can stand with you, or a tiny pal who can be held in
your arms, let them take a spin with you two.
If there is truly no logistical way to include your dog during your
wedding or elopement, that is a perfect excuse to include them in your
engagement photos instead!

A couple walk their curly-haired dog on a red dirt path during their engagement session.

Tips and Tricks

A couple include their dogs in wedding ceremony in front of a lake on a sunny day while their tiny brown dog watches; in the next photo the groom is licked by their other dog, a French bulldog.

Things you should bring if including your dogs in wedding photos:

The Must Haves:

A favorite toy that might capture their attention if I hold it
High-value treats to reward (or bribe) good behavior
Water and something to drink from
Poop bags- it’s important to pack out ALL our waste
A leash, even if we will be in a location that allows them to be off one

Optional But Recommended:

A towel to clean off muddy paws when we’re done
A topical tick-prevention from your vet or over the counter
A lint roller, especially if you’re wearing any dark clothing

Tips if you’re considering bringing your dog to your wedding or engagement:

1- Allow extra time to get the zoomies out in the beginning- or get there early so they can explore!

2- Accept that there’s going to be a little extra chaos. It’s part
of the fun! Is every photo going to be “glamorous”? No– but you will
love them all.

3- Be ready to get down at your dog’s level for photos, even if that means a little extra dirt.

4- Make sure your pet’s microchip is updated or attach something like
an air tag to their collar. A new environment, new people, potential
wildlife… even the very best pups can get overstimulated or distracted.

******When you get home, check your dog for ticks! They’re not super common in Colorado, but they definitely exist, especially in tall grass during the warmer seasons. Ticks are gross, but can be easily dealt with. If you’re not sure what you’re
looking for or how to remove them, check out this handy guide on dogs and ticks. You can also consider a preventative topical treatment if you’re extra concerned about it.

A couple pose with their black lab in a field; a close up shows the dog's humorous and extremely excited expression.

A trio of couples including their dogs in outdoor engagement sessions throughout Colorado.

**Consider what to do if you want some photos without your dog. You have a few options:**

1- If your dog is mellow (and not huge) I can hold the leash

2- We can attach the leash to a nearby post or tree with a carabiner

3- If you have guests, designate a “pet wrangler” who can either hold on to the dog or take them back when they’re done

*Leaving your dog in the car for a short time while we take photos is
only a viable option during the rare window of weather when we’re
between 40-70 degrees. It’s best not to make that your only plan.

Is every photo with your dog going to be “perfect”? Not in the sense that they are cooperative and posed the way you want them to be. But will they be “perfectly them”? Yes. And that is exactly what you’ll always want to remember.