4 Reasons To Include Your Dog in Your Wedding Day, With Tips For Travelling With Your Dog

Have you been daydreaming about your big day under the warm Greek sun, perhaps on a Santorini cliff or at a villa near Athens? Now, add an adorable wagging tail to that dream. Including your dog in your Greek destination wedding is more than an Instagram trend. For couples who see their pooch as family, this is a heartfelt way to honor that bond. Explore four reasons to include your dog in your wedding day to make your experience even more special.

They Add Joy and Authenticity

Your wedding day should reflect your unique story. By sharing it with your beloved dog, you can make the experience genuinely yours. Whether your pup brings the rings down the aisle or just soaks up the sights, you’ll create candid moments that professional planning can’t manufacture.

Dogs Are Part of the Greek Family

Dogs hold a special place in Greek culture. For generations, they’ve been loyal protectors, often seen trailing fishermen or snoozing in sun-dappled courtyards.

By bringing in your dog, you’ll add an extra layer of fun while honoring local traditions. Famously, Greeks value philoxenia (hospitality) and enjoy sharing it with two-and four-legged guests alike.

Stunning Photos You’ll Cherish

Greece’s landscapes are straight out of a dream—and with a joyful pup in the picture, your wedding album will be bursting with happiness.

Plus, most photographers love a dog in the bridal party for the spontaneous, joy-filled energy they bring. Whether posing by ancient ruins or frolicking on the beach, your dog will upgrade every shot.

More Meaning, Less Stress

Weddings can be stressful, especially far from home. Thankfully, having your dog by your side can be calming and grounding. They offer comic relief when nerves hit and remind you to savor the moment. For many couples, a wedding without their furry friend just wouldn’t feel complete.

Now that you’ve read these four reasons to include your dog in your wedding day, we hope you feel inspired to bring some heart and happiness to your destination wedding. If you’re considering bringing your favorite furry friend along, get started by researching pet-friendly venues and travel logistics in advance for a smooth experience full of cute snaps and calming snuggles.

In case you are travelling to Greece with your dog for your Greek wedding, we have a few travel tips for you! Your dog will love a road trip and exploring new locations, and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea! But even if you’re coming from abroad, you can still bring your family member with you, giving you even more reasons to include your dog in your wedding day.

Here are some practical tips for traveling with your dog:

1. Your Dog Travel Kit

Pack a bag with your pup’s essentials: food, water, bowls, leash, poop bags, meds, favorite toy, and a blanket or bed that smells like home. While planning their involvement, remember their needs too. In addition to special travel arrangements, some dogs require orthopedic dog beds for a restful sleep before the big day. Don’t forget vaccination records and ID tags!

2. Book Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Not all hotels or rentals allow pets, so double-check policies in advance. Look for places that welcome dogs.

3. Practice Short Trips First

If your dog isn’t used to traveling, start with short car rides or overnights to get them comfortable. Gradually build up to longer journeys to avoid anxiety or motion sickness.

4. Keep Them Safe in Transit

Use a crash-tested crate or a dog seat belt harness when driving. If flying, confirm airline pet policies and ensure the crate is airline-approved and labeled with your contact info.

5. Plan for Potty and Play Breaks

On road trips, stop every 2–3 hours for bathroom and sniff breaks. It’s good for both of you! Bring extra water, especially in hot weather.

How do people travel with dogs on planes?

Do a Pre-Flight Vet Check

Visit your vet before flying to make sure your dog is healthy enough for air travel. Some airlines require a health certificate issued within 10 days of departure. Ask your vet about calming strategies (natural or prescribed) if your pup gets anxious.

In-Cabin Travel for Small Dogs

• How it works: Small dogs (usually under 8 kg / 20 lbs including the carrier) can fly under the seat in an airline-approved soft carrier.
• What you need:
  • A breathable soft-sided carrier
  • Reservation with the airline (limited pet spots per flight)
  • Health/vaccine documents (depends on airline & destination)
• Pro tips:
  • Get your dog used to the carrier before flying
  • Feed them a few hours before, but don’t overdo water to avoid accidents

Checked Baggage for Medium Dogs – Less Common Now

• How it works: Some airlines allow dogs to fly in the cargo hold as checked baggage if they’re in a hard plastic crate.
• Why it’s tricky: Not all airlines offer this anymore. It’s temperature-controlled, but dogs still fly with the luggage.
• Tip: Always check weather policies. Some airlines restrict pet travel during very hot or cold months.

3. Cargo for Large Dogs

• How it works: Large dogs that can’t fly in-cabin travel as live animal cargo, with special handling.
• What you need:
  • IATA-approved crate
  • Early arrival at the cargo terminal
  • Vet documents plus possibly import/export paperwork for international flights
• Is it safe? Generally, yes! Many pets fly safely this way every day. But it’s important to choose pet-friendly airlines with good animal handling reputations (like Aegean, Lufthansa, KLM, or Air France).

Emotional Support or Service Dogs

• True service dogs (not emotional support animals) can fly for free in-cabin with their handler, depending on the country/airline.
• Emotional support animals are no longer accepted by most major airlines unless they meet service dog criteria.