Planning a wedding in Brisbane and want your adorable Cavoodle by your side? Here’s how to make it a smooth and memorable experience for everyone, paws included.
This article is contributed by our friends at Waterhill Cavoodles – ethical puppy breeders in Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.
Why Include Your Cavoodle in Your Wedding?
For many couples, the dog isn’t just part of the furniture, they’re family. So when it comes to the big day, why wouldn’t they be there too? Whether they’re walking down the aisle, starring in your photos, or simply soaking up the attention, dogs (especially sociable breeds like Cavoodles) can add a whole lot of heart to your wedding.
Cavoodles Make Pawfect Wedding Guests!
We know we’re a little biased, but honestly, Cavoodles (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle crosses) make ideal wedding companions. Their friendly, adaptable nature means they’re typically comfortable around crowds, and their hypoallergenic coat is a bonus for guests with allergies. Plus, let’s be honest – they’re adorably photogenic!
Of course, weddings can be a bit much for any breed. Loud music, lots of people, unfamiliar places. So if you’re planning to include your Cavoodle pup, you’ll want to get the details right. Here’s how to pull it off.
Pick a Dog-Friendly Wedding Venue in Brisbane
Your first step is finding a suitable wedding venue. Not every venue is up for having pets on site, so it’s important to check early. Look for places that allow dogs with open arms, not just with a reluctant nod.
Top Pet-Friendly Brisbane Wedding Venues to Consider:
- Bundaleer Rainforest Gardens – Brookfield – Nestled in the lush Brisbane hinterland, Bundaleer provides a serene setting surrounded by lush rainforest and charming rustic pastures. This venue openly welcomes pets, specifically mentioning in their packages that you can “bring your furry friend along to join you in your wedding shots.” The property’s natural beauty and gentle freshwater creek create endless gorgeous photo opportunities with your cavoodle.
- Wild Canary – Brisbane – offers a beautiful garden setting perfect for weddings, and they’re especially welcoming to dogs. They love it when couples include their “puppy pals during your wedding ceremony and for your wedding photos,” making it a cracking spot for dog-loving couples. This venue provides a charming floral and leafy backdrop for your special day, and their enthusiasm for canine involvement in key moments really sets them apart, ensuring your furry best friend can be right there with you, creating unforgettable memories and photos.
- The Gardens Club – Brisbane City – Located in Brisbane City’s beautiful Botanic Gardens, The Gardens Club offers an intimate, vintage setting perfect for both ceremony and reception. This all-weather venue happily welcomes pets and provides both indoor and outdoor options. The surrounding gardens create a romantic atmosphere that’s ideal for including your cavoodle in your special day.
See our Brisbane pet-friendly service directory for other fabulous pet-friendly venue options.
Essential Questions to Ask the Venue:
- Which areas can your dog access (ceremony area, reception venue, or both?)
- Are there leash requirements or supervision rules (ie is a professional pet chaperone required)?
- What’s nearby, like safe places for walks or a quiet spot if your dog needs a break?
Choose a Role for Your Cavoodle
Some dogs love the spotlight. Others are happier watching from the sidelines. So make sure you choose a role that best suits your Cavoodle’s personality.
Roles to Consider:
- Dog of Honour – have your Cavoodle walk down the aisle with or a member of your crew for an adorable entrance!
- Ring Bearer – Cavoodles’ calm nature makes them excellent ring bearers. Attach the rings in a ring pouch, pillow, or on a flower collar (just make sure it’s secure!)
- Photo Guest – if ceremony participation feels overwhelming, your Cavoodle can join for some family portraits
If your Cavoodle is the type to chase butterflies or bark mid-vows, it’s okay to keep it low-key. The day is still special with them nearby.
Bring in a Pet Chaperone
This is one of the best decisions you can make. A pet chaperone is someone (often a professional) who looks after your dog for the day, so your guests don’t have to juggle leads and canapés.
A Dog Chaperone Can Help With:
- Transporting your dog to and from the venue
- Walks, toilet breaks, water and food
- Keeping your pup calm and entertained
- Taking them home after the formalities, and some even offer pet-friendly overnight accommodation
For help in Brisbane, check out First Class Pet Wedding Assistants. They’re a full-service team made up of vets, vet nurses, dog behaviourists, and animal handlers. Their packages cover pet grooming and wedding attire, help during photo shoots, and even honeymoon care. Basically, they’ve got everything covered so your dog is looked after before, during, and after your big day.
Get Your Cavoodle Wedding-Ready
Even the most relaxed Cavoodle needs a bit of prep before they step onto the aisle.
Pre-Wedding Prep Checklist:
- Grooming – Book them in a day or two beforehand so they’re clean, brushed, and photo-ready.
- Cavoodle Wedding Outfit – can look charming on your wedding day with simple, lightweight accessories like embroidered bandanas or clip-on bowties that keep them cool and comfortable. For a dressier look, opt for breathable mini vests, tuxedo bibs, or floral collars made from dog-safe materials, avoiding heavy or restrictive outfits. Whatever you choose, prioritise your pup’s comfort and safety, practise the outfit beforehand, and check Etsy. for plenty of stylish dog wedding outfit ideas
- Training Refresher – Practise basic commands like sit and stay. A quick walk-through of the ceremony setup, if possible, can help too.
- Essentials Bag – Pack treats, a water bowl, poop bags, wipes, and a favourite toy or blanket.
If you want professional help, Whaggy Whiskers is owned by a passionate animal lover and offers top-quality services to fit any budget. They provide pet chauffeur, dressing and brushing, walking down the aisle, photo shoot assistance, reception attendance, and even sleepover care — everything to keep your furry mate looking great and feeling calm.
Let Guests Know Ahead of Time
Some people love dogs. Others, not so much. If your pup will be at the ceremony or reception, it’s a good idea to give guests a heads-up.
Suggested Wording:
“We’re thrilled to have our Cavoodle, Luna, joining us for the ceremony. She’s friendly and loves a pat, but let us know if you’d prefer to keep some space.”
It’s polite, simple, and helps avoid surprises on the day.
Extra Tips for a Stress-Free Day
- Set up a shady, quiet spot where your dog can rest away from the crowd
- Assign someone (ideally the dog chaperone) to be in charge of food patrol so no cheeky sausage roll thefts occur
- Make sure loud music or fireworks are flagged in advance, as they can be scary for dogs
- Don’t force it. If your dog is overwhelmed, it’s okay for them to bow out early
If your big day is still a little while off and you’re thinking about adding a furry family member into the mix, we’d love you to check out Waterhill Cavoodles – trusted Brisbane Cavoodle breeders. Our Cavoodles are gentle, affectionate, and well-suited to couples looking for a low-shedding, family-friendly companion who’ll be just as much a part of your future as the big day itself.
Final Thoughts
Including your Cavoodle in your wedding is a lovely way to share the moment with your full family. With a bit of planning, the right support, and realistic expectations, you’ll all have a brilliant time – tails wagging and all.
Just don’t be surprised if your guests remember your dog’s role more than the cake.
5 FAQs for Including Your Dog in Your Wedding
1. How do I know if my Cavoodle is ready to be part of the wedding day?
It’s important to assess your dog’s temperament before the big day. Dogs that get stressed around crowds or loud noises might need a limited role or a quiet space. Practising with your dog beforehand helps ensure they’re comfortable being around guests and noise.
2. What are the best ways to keep my dog calm and comfortable during a wedding?
Bring familiar items like a favourite blanket or toy, schedule regular breaks with a pet chaperone for water and toilet stops, and create a quiet, shady area away from the crowd. These steps keep your dog relaxed throughout the ceremony and reception.
3. Can my Cavoodle walk down the aisle or be the ring bearer?
Yes, dogs can have roles like walking down the aisle or carrying rings, but it depends on your dog’s personality and training. Make sure to practise commands and the route beforehand to avoid any surprises on the day.
4. How do I handle food and safety around my dog during the wedding?
Assign someone to supervise food around your Cavoodle to prevent them from eating unsafe wedding snacks. Keep your dog’s food separate and avoid sharing human food, which can be harmful to dogs.
5. What if my venue says they’re “pet-friendly” but seem hesitant?
Look for venues that actively welcome pets, not just tolerate them. The venues listed above specifically encourage canine participation and understand the logistics involved. We’ve also created a free Venue Sniff Test to help you scope out the suitability of any venue!
Sarah, the experienced breeder behind Waterhill Cavoodles, has been dedicated to raising exceptional Cavoodle puppies since 2016. Recognised as an outstanding breeder, her expertise shines through in her commitment to ethical practices, comprehensive health testing, and a robust Puppy Development Program. Sarah ensures all puppies are well-socialised, healthy, and happy, offering thorough documentation and a 2-year health guarantee, reflecting her deep knowledge and care.
