Couple celebrating a dog-friendly elopement wedding in a Danish lighthouse, perfect for international couples marrying in Europe.

Thinking about getting married in Denmark but can’t imagine your big day without your four-legged best friend? You don’t have to.

At Danish Island Weddings, we believe your wedding day should include everyone you love—including your dog. Denmark is widely recognized as one of the most pet-friendly wedding destinations in the world. On the historic, fairytale island of Ærø, dogs aren't just tolerated; they are welcomed with open arms (and plenty of treats).

A cute white terrier cuddles on the lap of its newlywed owner at dogfriendly v´beachwedding in Denmark

Here is everything you need to know about planning a dog-friendly wedding on Ærø Island, from legal travel requirements to making your pup the ultimate ring bearer.

Why Denmark (and Ærø) is Perfect for a Dog-Friendly Wedding

Unlike many countries where civil ceremonies are strictly restricted to human guests, Danish authorities are incredibly accommodating.

Town Hall Access: The Aeroe Town Hall (Ærø Kommune) allows dogs inside the registry office and right into the ceremony room. And the same goes for our venues; whether you choose to bring your pup to our wedding room at The Old merchants House , our beach hut or the lighthouse; your furry darling is welcome anywhere!

The Registrar’s Welcome: It is not uncommon for the local registrars to have a stash of dog treats ready for your furry witness.

Island Lifestyle: Ærø is an outdoor paradise. With dog-friendly beaches, quiet cobblestone streets in Ærøskøbing, and open nature trails, your dog will enjoy the trip as much as you do.

Happy international couple before their wedding in Denmark, with a black puppy licking the groom's face.

Four Essential Tips for Traveling to Denmark with Your Dog

To ensure a stress-free journey to the island, you must comply with EU pet travel regulations. Whether you are driving from Germany or flying into Copenhagen, make sure you check these boxes:

Microchip: Your dog must be fitted with an ISO-compliant microchip before or at the same time as their rabies vaccination.

Rabies Vaccination: The vaccine must be administered at least 21 days before travel, and your dog must be at least 12 weeks old at the time of vaccination.

Newlyweds crouching in a small grove with their dog touching noses with the groom during an outdoor wedding in Denmark.

Pet Passport / Animal Health Certificate:

If entering from an EU country, you need a valid EU Pet Passport.

If entering from a non-EU country (like the UK or USA), you will need an official Animal Health Certificate (AHC) or a certified vet health certificate.

The Ferry Crossing: The Ærø ferries (from Svendborg, Rudkøbing or Fynshav) are completely dog-friendly. Dogs travel for free, and they are welcome in all indoor passenger seating areas as well as out on the open deck.

How to Include Your Dog in Your Ærø Wedding Ceremony

There are several ways to give your pup a starring role on your wedding day:

1. The Ring Bearer

We can help you source a secure, comfortable ring-bearer pouch or collar attachment. Walking down the aisle of a historic room or across a sandy beach to deliver the rings makes for unforgettable photos.

2. The Furry Witness

While your dog cannot legally sign the Danish marriage certificate, they can absolutely stand by your side as your honorary witness. They will fit right in next to you in the registry office or at an outdoor elopement spot by the sea.

3. Star of the Wedding Photos

Ærøskøbing’s 18th-century half-timbered houses, hollyhocks, and colorful beach huts provide a breathtaking backdrop. Our wedding photographer will capture beautiful, candid moments of your mini-family exploring the island.

Happy Golden Retriever wearing a flower wreath standing between its owners' feet on a beach during a wedding in Denmark.

Dog-Friendly Logistics on Ærø: Accommodation & Dining

Planning a pet-friendly wedding itinerary is seamless on the island:

Where to Stay: Ærø offers some dog-friendly boutique hotels, traditional B&Bs, and seaside holiday homes. When booking through us, just let us know you are bringing a dog, and we will match you with the best pet-friendly accommodations.

Where to Eat: Most cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating welcome dogs. Many local spots will happily bring out a bowl of fresh water for your pup while you enjoy local Danish food or haute cuisine.

Black and white wedding photo of an international couple holding their happy black dog, leaning against the bride's chest.

Let Danish Island Weddings Plan Your Perfect Day

As the longest-established wedding agency on Ærø, Danish Island Weddings handles all the heavy lifting. From vetting the paperwork with the Danish Agency of Family Law to arranging pet-friendly venues and photographer, we ensure your wedding day is seamless and stress-free.

Ready to start planning your dog-friendly island elopement? Contact us today to discuss your vision.

Newlyweds Yuki and Michael crouching on the romantic Molestien path in Aeroskobing, Denmark, petting their Ukrainian rescue dog Ivana.

Paws & Promises: The Ultimate Guide to Eloping with Your Dog on Ærø Island