Training Your Dog To Be Ring Bearer

So, you want your dog to be the ring bearer at your wedding? It's certainly possible, but it's important to consider what your dog can and can't handle. If your dog is young, anxious, aggressive, or easily excitable, they might not be up for the task, even with extensive training. However, if your dog is happy, calm, and friendly, there are several strategies you can use to have them successfully bring the wedding rings down the aisle. Here are some tips to help you train your dog for this special role.

Assess your dog's suitability for the role

There are several factors to consider when assessing your dog's suitability for the role of ring bearer.

Firstly, it is important to determine your dog's temperament and comfort level around large groups of people. If your dog is anxious, aggressive, very young, or easily excitable in crowds, they may not be suited for the role, even with extensive training. Asking them to perform a task in an unfamiliar environment with a lot of people can be unfair and cause them discomfort.

However, if your dog is generally happy, calm, and friendly around people, they may be a good fit. It is also crucial to assess whether your dog has any issues with specific types of people, such as strangers, children, or the elderly.

Another aspect to consider is your dog's behaviour when you are not paying attention to them. Do they get restless, bark, or exhibit signs of jealousy or separation anxiety? If so, it might be best to reconsider their involvement or modify their role.

Additionally, it is important to assess your dog's training level. Are they well-behaved and able to follow basic commands such as "sit," "stay," "come," and "heel"? Can they walk on a leash without pulling? A well-trained dog that can respond to commands from people other than their owner will be more suited to the task.

Finally, it is essential to ensure your dog is comfortable with the outfit and equipment they will be using on the day. Practice with the clothing, ring-carrying equipment, and any other accessories to ensure your dog is comfortable and not frustrated or restricted by the attire.

Remember, it is important to be realistic about your dog's temperament and behaviour. If they are not suited to be a ring bearer, there are other ways to include them in your wedding, such as having them dressed up for photos or assigning them a less demanding role.

Train your dog to walk down the aisle

Training your dog to walk down the aisle as a ring bearer is a fun and meaningful way to include your furry friend in your wedding ceremony. Here are some tips to help you train your dog for their big moment:

Assess your dog's suitability

Before you begin training, it's important to consider your dog's temperament and what they can handle. If your dog is very young, anxious, aggressive, or easily excitable in crowds and new situations, they may not be suited for the task, even with extensive training. It's important to determine if your dog is comfortable around large groups of people and able to listen to people other than yourself and your partner.

Start training early

Begin training your dog for their walk down the aisle two to four months before your wedding day, or earlier if you think they may need more time. This will give them ample time to practice and become comfortable with the routine and any special equipment or clothing they will be using on the day.

Break down the task into small steps

Teach your dog each aspect of the task individually. For example, start by teaching them to walk on a loose leash, then introduce them to walking in a simulated aisle setting with chairs and people to mimic the wedding venue. Once they have mastered that, you can add in the command to have them walk towards you at the end of the aisle. If your dog will be carrying the rings in a basket or container, teach them to hold the object in their mouth and walk with it.

Use positive reinforcement

Treats are an excellent motivator for dogs learning new tricks. Use treats and positive reinforcement to reward your dog when they perform the desired behaviour. This will make the training process more enjoyable for your dog and help them associate the task with positive experiences.

Assign a walk buddy and dog handler

Even the most well-trained dogs can get excited or overwhelmed in a new environment. Assign a walk buddy, such as a flower girl or junior bridesmaid, to accompany your dog down the aisle. You should also designate a "dog handler" to be responsible for your dog throughout the wedding. This person can take your dog for a walk before the ceremony to burn off energy, ensure they get down the aisle, hold them during the ceremony, and take them wherever they need to go after the wedding.

Practice in a realistic setting

As your dog progresses in their training, try to simulate the wedding environment as closely as possible. Practice in a large room or yard with chairs set up to create an aisle, and have people present to mimic the crowd. This will help your dog get used to walking down the aisle with all eyes on them.

Have a plan for after the ceremony

After your dog has completed their ring-bearing duties, they will need somewhere to go. If your venue is pet-friendly, you may want to keep them around for cocktail hour or photos. Otherwise, arrange for a dog sitter or family member to take them home or to a local pet-boarding facility for the night.

By following these tips and starting your training early, your dog will be well on their way to becoming a well-trained ring bearer, adding a unique and memorable touch to your special day.

Teach your dog to carry the rings

To teach your dog to carry the rings, you'll need to start training several weeks or months before the wedding. You'll also need to decide what equipment your dog will use to carry the rings. This could be a basket, a pillow on a harness, or a pouch attached to their collar.

Once you have the equipment, get your dog used to it by holding it near their mouth and rewarding them with treats when they lick or mouth the handle. You can then gently open their mouth, say "hold", put the object in their mouth, and close their mouth for a few seconds. Repeat this process, gradually increasing the length of time the object is in their mouth. Eventually, you can start having them walk forward while carrying the object on a leash.

If you're using a basket or container, you can transition to having your dog carry it without the leash. Start in an environment with no distractions, and gradually add distractions. Reward your dog when they complete the task but do not punish them for mistakes—keep training fun and positive.

If you're using a pillow or pouch, you'll need to get your dog comfortable with wearing it on their collar or harness. Start by having them try it on around the house to make sure it fits well and is comfortable. Then, you can begin training them to walk down the aisle with the rings attached.

In addition to carrying the rings, you'll also need to teach your dog to walk down the aisle and deliver the rings to the correct person. This can be done using the "Walk Accompanied Method" or the "Solo Approach Method", depending on whether your dog will be walking with a handler or alone.

Dress your dog for the occasion

Dressing your dog for your wedding day is a fun and adorable way to include your furry friend in the celebrations. If you're going to go to the effort of training your dog to be a ring bearer, you might as well dress them for the occasion!

There are many options to choose from when it comes to dog wedding attire. You could go for a classic look with a bow tie, matching the groomsmen, or a floral collar or wreath to complement the bridesmaids. If you want to go all out, a dog tuxedo or a black top hat and jacket will ensure your dog looks dapper for the ceremony. You can even get special bow tie collars with clips to secure the rings to.

It's important to make sure your dog is comfortable in their outfit, so be sure to have them try it on before the big day. Let them wear it around the house for a while to ensure it fits well and won't be irritating during the ceremony.

You could also add some fun accessories, like an adorable sign or a new fancy leash. If you're feeling creative, you could even get dog-themed wedding favours or a special dog-friendly cake for your pup to enjoy.

Remember, the key is to make sure your dog feels comfortable and happy, so don't force them to wear anything they're not into. With the right outfit and some training, your dog will be sure to wow your guests as they walk down the aisle.

Assign a dog handler for the day

Assigning a dog handler for the day is an important step in ensuring your dog is comfortable and well-behaved during your wedding. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Choose the Right Person

Select someone who is trusted by the dog and understands their temperament. It is ideal if the handler is someone the dog is already comfortable with and who knows how to control and handle the dog effectively. This could be a friend, family member, or a professional handler or trainer.

Prepare the Handler

Ensure the handler has all the necessary items for the dog, such as treats, water, and doggy bags. They should also be responsible for ensuring the dog relieves itself before the ceremony and is appropriately "dressed" for the occasion, especially if costumes are involved. It is also a good idea for the handler to arrive early, at least an hour before the ceremony, to walk the dog and help them get out their energy.

During the Ceremony

The handler should be prepared to take full responsibility for the dog during the wedding. This includes being prepared for any accidents and knowing when to whisk the dog away to a quiet area if needed. The handler can also assist in walking the dog down the aisle, either with the wedding party or on their own, ensuring the dog walks calmly and quietly.

After the Ceremony

Following the ceremony, the handler can take the dog back to the couple's home or a boarding facility, especially if the dog will not be present for the reception. Alternatively, if the dog is staying for the reception, the handler can continue to care for the dog, ensuring it has water, is comfortable, and can even help with posing for photos.

By assigning a dedicated dog handler, you can ensure that your furry ring bearer is well cared for and that you can focus on enjoying your special day.

Frequently asked questions