Creative Ideas for Wedding Dog Collars

For many couples, a dog is part of the family, and weddings are one of the biggest family events around. Go ahead and include your buddy in the bridal party. However, for best results keep the attire simple, comfortable and as familiar as possible. Dress up your pup̵7;s favorite collar to fit the occasion; no fussy top hat and tail for this pooch.

  1. Ties

    • A tie can add a dash of dapper to your buddy̵7;s wedding attire. However, traditional ties pose a strangulation hazard. Clip-on ties are the safest option. Choose a short, little boy̵7;s tie for small breeds or a regular men̵7;s tie for the big boys and a roll of ribbon in a coordinating color. Of course, each component should coordinate with the rest of the men in the wedding party. Carefully wrap your buddy̵7;s collar in the ribbon, taking care to fully cover the collar, then clip the tie to the front. If the wedding party is clad in bow ties, simply repeat the same process with a bow tie. Make sure the tie doesn̵7;t drag on the ground or otherwise impede your dog̵7;s movement. You don̵7;t want him tripping during the ceremony.

    Ring Bearer

    • Canine ring bearers can elicit a chorus of ̶0;awws.̶1; Give your buddy a collar perfectly made to carry your special rings. Many pet stores and boutiques sell small ring-bearer pillows. These pillows typically have a ribbon, strap or slots on the bottom for the collar to slip through. You can also affix any small (2- to 4-inch square) pillow to his collar with Velcro or ribbon or hang a small basket out in front. Forgo the pillow and basket altogether and just use ribbon or lace to quickly and easily turn your buddy into a ring bearer. Just make sure to use a slipknot for security, lest your rings go flying.

    Flowers

    • A dash of flowers can certainly make your dog̵7;s collar wedding appropriate. Talk to your florist about fashioning a few buds from the bouquet onto your dog̵7;s collar with floral wire, but take caution. Popular wedding flowers like lilies, azaleas and baby̵7;s breath are all toxic to dogs if chewed or ingested. Artificial flowers attached to the back of his collar are the safest option.

    Testing, Testing

    • Weddings, though beautiful and romantic, can be incredibly overwhelming. Minimize your dog̵7;s stress and test out his special collar several times before the big day to get him used to it. You don̵7;t want to discover his affinity for chewing on the ring bearer pillow as he̵7;s walking down the aisle. Leave several weeks to make any adjustments to his custom collar. If he simply can̵7;t resist pawing at the flowers near his chin, try affixing one or two near the nape of his neck instead. Hanging ties can be irresistible toys for some playful pups; try a bow tie to discourage your wedding ceremony from turning into playtime.