Your dog isn’t just part of the house like a lamp or the fridge — they’re part of your relationship (call it a “thruple”). They are there on all of your walks, quiet evenings on the couch, and everything in between. So it’s no surprise that more people are choosing to include their dog in one of the biggest moments of their lives: the proposal.
Over the years, we’ve photographed proposals where dogs played a central role — sometimes wearing bandanas with messages like “Marry Me?” or “Mom and Dad Got Engaged,” and other times simply showing up as themselves. Your pup adds a layer of personality that makes your proposal even more unique.
Why Couples Choose to Include Their Dog
When a dog is part of a proposal, the moment often feels instantly familiar and grounded. It reflects real life — not a staged version of it. They too are jumping around for joy, and not quite sure what is going on. Some of the reasons to include your dog:
The dog is already part of your daily routine, making the proposal feel natural - “Let’s take Sparky for a walk in Central Park, it’s such a nice day and meet friends”.
Dogs add genuine, unscripted reactions that can’t be planned.
The photos feel personal in a way that’s hard to replicate.
In many cases, your dog acts as a bridge — something familiar that gently guides the moment into something unexpected. When the timing and environment are right, it can turn a proposal into something that feels uniquely yours.
The Practical Challenges to Consider
As meaningful as it can be, including a dog also adds an element you can’t fully control — and that’s not always a bad thing, but it’s important to be realistic.
Some considerations to keep in mind:
Dogs don’t follow scripts — excitement, distraction, or nerves can shift the moment
Busy or unfamiliar environments can overwhelm some pets
A dog may require another person nearby to help manage leashes or attention - We can hold your pup and photograph! Don’t worry about it. WE LOVE DOGS!!!!
The key is understanding your dog’s personality. A calm, people-friendly dog in a familiar setting is very different from a high-energy dog in a crowded location. When these pieces are in place, the dog becomes part of the story rather than the focus of it.
A Personal Choice, Not a Requirement
Including a dog in a proposal isn’t about doing something trendy — it’s about reflecting the life you share. For some couples, it adds warmth and authenticity. For others, keeping the moment between two people feels more honest. Both choices are valid.
The most memorable proposals aren’t defined by who’s there or what’s included, but by how true the moment feels to the couple experiencing it.
This proposal is a good example of how including a dog can feel natural and personal.