Tips for Including Your Dog in a Surprise Proposal
Tips for Including Your Dog in a Surprise Proposal
If your dog is part of your love story, it makes sense to want them there when you propose.
Dogs are family. They are there for the quiet mornings, the road trips, the hikes, the big transitions, and the ordinary days that end up meaning the most. So when someone tells me they want to include their dog in a proposal, I completely understand why.
A dog can make a proposal feel even more personal, playful, and true to your relationship. But it also adds a few moving parts. Dogs have their own personalities, their own timing, and absolutely no idea that we are trying to create a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
That does not mean you should not include them. It just means a little planning goes a long way.
Here are some tips for including your dog in a surprise proposal while keeping the moment calm, sweet, and photographable.
First, Think About Your Dog’s Personality
Before deciding how to include your dog, think honestly about who your dog is.
Is your dog calm in public places?
Do they get excited or protective around strangers?
Are they comfortable on a leash?
Do they bark when they are nervous?
Can they sit still for a few minutes?
Are they likely to jump on your partner right when you get down on one knee?
There is no wrong answer here. The goal is not to have a perfectly trained dog. The goal is to create a plan that works with your dog instead of against them.
Some dogs do better joining right after the proposal for photos. Others do great as being a part of it all. I have even seen a dog be included in the proposal itself and then the person proposing had a hired dof walker take the dog for the rest of our engagement session so they could also have part of the session be just the two of them. I think that is a genius plan and I also know a professional dog walker if you need help finding one.
Decide Whether Your Dog Should Be There for the Actual Proposal
There are two main ways to include your dog.
The first option is having your dog there during the proposal itself. This can be really sweet if your dog is calm, comfortable, and already part of the plan. Your partner might think you are just going for a walk together, and then suddenly the dog is right there as you propose. It might help with keeping everything as a surprise to have the dog around as usual.
The second option is having someone bring your dog in right after the proposal if you want to include them in some photos but the thought of having them there at the actual moment for proposing stresses you out. It lets the proposal stay focused and emotional, and then your dog gets to join for the celebration photos afterward.
Have a Dog Helper
If you want your dog involved, it can be helpful to bring a trusted dog helper.
This could be a friend, sibling, parent, or anyone your dog already knows and feels safe with. Their job is to handle the dog before, during, or after the proposal so you can stay present with your partner.
Like I mentioned earlier, a professional dog walker is also a wonderful option as well.
A good dog helper can:
Hold the leash while you propose, bring the dog in at the right moment, gve treats or water, take the dog for a short walk if they get restless and, help to keep the surprise from getting chaotic.
Choose a Dog-Friendly Location
Before you choose the spot, make sure dogs are actually allowed there.
This sounds simple, but it is easy to overlook. Some beautiful proposal locations allow leashed dogs. Some only allow dogs in certain areas. Some do not allow pets at all, even if they are outdoors.
If you are planning a proposal near Asheville, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Greenville, or anywhere in Western North Carolina, it is always worth checking the current rules before you commit to a location.
Also think about whether the location is dog-friendly in a practical way. Is there enough space? Will there be crowds? Is the trail too steep? Will the ground be hot? Is your dog comfortable with bridges, stairs, overlooks, traffic, or other dogs?
A place can technically allow dogs and still not be the best fit for your particular dog. Some places that have worked well have been hikes, downtown Asheville, in the couple's home when the person being proposed to thought it was just a fur-family photo session, orchards, and dog-friendly parks.
Keep the Leash Simple
For photos, I usually recommend using a clean, simple leash and collar or harness, without big poo bag containers attached to them.
You do not need anything fancy, but it helps if the leash is not overly bright, tangled, or distracting. Neutral colors tend to photograph well and keep the focus on the moment.
If you want to add something special, a small floral collar, bandana, or “Will you marry my human?” sign can be adorable. Just keep it comfortable for the dog and easy to manage.
The best dog accessories are the ones that do not stress the dog out.
My Favorite Way to Include Dogs in Proposal Photos
My favorite approach is usually this:
Plan the proposal in a beautiful, dog-friendly location.
Have a trusted helper nearby to help with the dog if needed.
Give everyone a few minutes to laugh, hug, celebrate, and settle.
The dogs are almost always really happy and excited for the proposal! Just enjoy it all!!
Planning a Dog-Friendly Proposal in Asheville or Western North Carolina
If you are planning a dog-friendly proposal in Asheville, on the Blue Ridge Parkway, in Greenville, or somewhere in the mountains of Western North Carolina, I would love to help you think through the details.
There are so many beautiful places to propose with your dog nearby, but the best location depends on your relationship, your dog’s personality, the light, the season, and personal preferences.
My goal is always to help the proposal feel calm, thoughtful, and true to you.
And if your dog is part of the story, we will make space for them too.
