Everything You Need to Know About Planning a Dog-Friendly Elopement
If you’re planning a Colorado elopement and wondering if your dog can be part of it, the answer is simple:
Absolutely. 100% yes.
One of the best parts about choosing to elope is the freedom to create a day that reflects your life, and for a lot of couples, that includes their dog. Colorado is one of the most dog-friendly states! But while bringing your dog to your elopement is totally possible, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure the day feels easy, fun, and stress-free for everyone involved (including your pup).
Why Bringing Your Dog to Your Colorado Elopement Just Makes Sense
For a lot of people, dogs aren’t just pets, they’re family. They’ve been there for everyday moments, big life changes, and everything in between. Including them in your elopement makes sense.
And honestly? They bring a level of joy and unpredictability that makes the day even more unique. One of the great things about Colorado is how many beautiful, dog-friendly locations there are, making it easier to plan a Colorado elopement with dogs than in many other states.
Are Dogs Allowed at Colorado Elopement Locations?
Short answer: yes, but it depends on the location.
Many Colorado elopement locations are dog-friendly, especially mountain overlooks, national forests, open space trails, and some state parks. These locations often provide plenty of room for your dog to explore while still giving you incredible scenery for your wedding day.
However, some places (like certain national parks or protected areas) have stricter rules. This is one of the biggest reasons choosing the right location matters.
Checking leash requirements, trail restrictions, and seasonal regulations are always good practice before bringing your dog anywhere.
How to Plan a Dog-Friendly Colorado Elopement
Bringing your dog doesn’t have to complicate your day—it just takes a little intention.
1. Choose the Right Location
Not every beautiful location is dog-friendly, so it’s important to consider your dog’s needs when choosing a spot. Think about whether the trail is safe for them, how crowded the area might be, and whether they’ll have enough space to relax and enjoy the day alongside you.
2. Think About Your Dog’s Personality
Every dog is different.
Ask yourself:
- Do they do well in new environments?
- Are they comfortable around people?
- Do they have good recall?
- What distance are they comfortable walking?
This helps shape the kind of location and timeline that will work best.
3. Build a Flexible Timeline
Dogs don’t follow schedules. This is what we love about them!
However, it is always good for us to plan for breaks, some time for water/snacks, and a little extra time for anything else. Some of the best moments come from just letting things unfold naturally.
4. Bring a “Dog Kit”
A few simple things go a long way:
- Water + bowl
- Treats (My dog & I love Zuke’s training treats)
- Waste bags
- Leash (and possibly a longer one)
- Favorite toy
- Blanket or bed
5. Consider a Dog Handler or Extra Help
If you’re planning a longer day or multiple locations, having someone there to help can make things smoother.
They can:
- Hold your dog during certain moments
- Take them back to rest
- Help keep things relaxed
What Does a Dog-Friendly Elopement Actually Look Like?
A dog-friendly Colorado elopement can look however you want it to. Your dog might hike with you to your ceremony location, sit nearby while you read your vows, run around during portraits, or leave muddy paw prints on your outfit. Some of my favorite photos come from these unscripted moments. Planning a dog-friendly elopement is just one piece of the puzzle. Check out my complete Colorado Elopement Guide for everything you need to know.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a Colorado elopement and wondering whether your dog should be part of it, my answer is a wholehearted yes.
Will every photo be perfectly posed? Probably not. Your dog might steal the spotlight, get a little muddy, or decide that sitting still is simply not on the agenda that day. Things might feel a little chaotic at times, but that’s often where the best moments come from.
As a lifelong dog lover, dog mom, and someone whose own pup tags along on location scouting adventures, I genuinely love it when couples include their dogs in their elopement day. They’re family, and some of my favorite moments happen when they’re right there in the middle of it all.
With the right planning, the right location, and a little flexibility, your dog can be part of a day that feels relaxed, meaningful, and completely yours. After all, they’re part of your story too, and there’s something really special about having them there to celebrate the start of your next chapter.
