All dog owners know the special bond they share with their pet. Getting married is all about standing up with your partner in front of friends and loved ones to declare each other “family,” so choosing to have your adopted canine family member by your side on the big day makes good sense. Here are some fun ways to give your pup a special role in your wedding day.

Engagement photos are a great opportunity to take some casual, fun pics with your partner and to get comfortable being in front of your wedding photographer’s camera. Bringing your dog along will instantly help with any camera-shyness you may have, so you can relax and have fun. Plus, your marriage will bond you, your partner, and your fur baby as one united family. Including them in your photographic memories of this special time just makes sense

Once you’ve scheduled your wedding date, share the news with your guests with a photo of your dog proclaiming its excitement! Have your pup pose with a handmade sign announcing your date, and have photo cards printed to send off to your friends and loved ones.

If your pet is well trained and eager to perform, put its skills to use to stage an adorable photo of your engagement ring or wedding bands. Ask it to “shake a paw” and place your jewelry on top, or for the advanced, ultra-patient pup, balance your ring on its nose and snap a cute close up. (But first make sure you teach it to do this trick with items other than treats!)

There are two types of dog owners out there: those who love dressing their pet up in ridiculous, adorable clothing, and those who won’t admit that they love it. DIY a silk flower-wrapped collar and leash for your chic canine companion to wear on the big day.

Your handsome hound will fit right in with your groomsmen provided he’s got the right dapper duds to wear. Help him look the part by sewing a custom bow tie collar and tuxedo cuffs.

After your wedding party has made it down the aisle, send out your pup to announce that you’re next. Loop a hand-painted sign around its neck with the words, “Here comes the bride” (or whatever your preferred take on the phrase). Not sure your pet will make it down the aisle alone without distraction? Send it side by side with a flower girl, ring bearer, or other member of the wedding party.

As we’ve said, your fur baby is an essential member of the new family that your marriage unites. Invite your pup to share in the moment of your union by standing up at your side as your and your partner take your vows.

DIY your wedding film with the help of your very own canine videographer. Strap a Go-Pro onto the harness and pair your pup up with one of your bridesmaids or groomsmen for the walk down the aisle. After the ceremony, have a friend lead your pet around the party greeting guests and sniffing out priceless footage of the all fun.

Tradition stipulates that your first wedding anniversary gift should be paper-based. For a cheeky take, book a session with a pet photographer to recreate your favourite wedding portrait with your paired-up pups as stand-ins for your and your spouse — and surprise your mate with a printed photo to display in your home.