Yes, a Dog Can Sign a Colorado Marriage License

Good news – a dog can sign a Colorado marriage license! 

Yes, Colorado’s self-solemnization law means no witness is required, so couples can include their dog’s paw print for fun, but pets don’t have legal capacity and aren’t official witnesses in the legal sense.

Pay attention here! Only certain counties allow paw prints on marriage licenses. If it’s important for your dog to sign your marriage license, do NOT get your license from Arapahoe or Denver County. Anywhere else and you’ll be fine! More on that in this TikTok. 

@coloradoelopementphoto

beware of this if you plan to have your dog as your marriage witness #coloradoelopementphotographer #coloradoweddingphotographer #coloradocheck #coloradowedding

♬ original sound – kenzie | wedding photog

Destiny and Jose have two little doggos, and having them “sign” their marriage license was a huge priority. Not only did the dogs play a huge role in their elopement day, but they were also a factor in how Jose and Destiny chose a location – a private Airbnb with an epic view.

Real-Life Example of a Dog Signing a Colorado Marriage License

•  Like I said, Jose and Destiny really wanted their two dogs to be part of their day. Because having two small dogs out in the wilderness isn’t the best choice, they found an Airbnb in Blackhawk that allowed animals. It was such a stress-free way to incorporate their fur babies.
• Airbnbs can be tricky when it comes to events, but since it was just Jose and Destiny, we didn’t have to jump through any hoops! I typically recommend a VRBO for larger gatherings – check out my recs here. If you’re thinking about planning an Airbnb elopement, I have tips just for you!
• Destiny has a killer eye for florals, so she DIYed her bouquet, which Jose also helped with.
• Yes, Destiny made her own bouquet. No, I don’t believe just anyone can do that. Making floral arrangements is WAY harder than it looks. Unless you have previous experience, I always always tell my couples to trust the professionals. Here are some of my favorite florists.
• The three of us mapped out some places they wanted to get photos in the snow. Different locations let Destiny take advantage of an outfit change. You guys know I live for a black dress moment, and she did NOT let me down. A queen.
• I get asked all the time if my couples will have time for an outfit change and if it’s “allowed.” Besties – this is YOUR day. If you want to do an outfit change, you’ll get an outfit change. I don’t care how many you have, we’ll make it work!
• We stopped at Loveland Pass, Keystone for a unity joint, and then Dillon Reservoir for sunset photos. They wound down with a little picnic in the back of their car before heading out to an intimate dinner reservation.
• I spent about six hours with Destiny and Jose. That much time allowed us to get photos in basically every kind of lighting. We covered direct light, natural, sunset, and flash. Because of the amount of time they booked, it allowed us to get a lot of different vibes for them to choose from.

FAQs: Can a Dog Sign a Marriage License in Colorado?

Can a dog legally sign a marriage license in Colorado?

Not in the traditional legal sense — dogs don’t have legal capacity to act as witnesses. However, because Colorado allows self-solemnization (meaning no officiant or witnesses are required), couples can include their dog’s paw print on the license as a fun, symbolic touch. The marriage is still valid because you are the ones legally solemnizing it.

Is a dog’s paw print actually accepted by the county clerk?

It depends on the county. Some clerks are totally fine with a paw print as part of the signature area, while others prefer only human signatures. Before you try this, it’s smart to call or check with your specific county clerk’s office to avoid any issues when you return your license.

Does a dog count as a witness in Colorado?

Nope — and the good news is, Colorado doesn’t require witnesses at all. That’s why couples can get creative with how they sign their license. Your dog isn’t a legal witness, but their paw print can be included as a keepsake-style addition thanks to self-solemnization laws.

How do you safely get your dog’s paw print on the marriage license?

Use a pet-safe, non-toxic ink pad and make sure your dog’s paw is clean and dry first. Gently press (don’t slide) the paw onto the paper. Pro tip: practice on a scrap sheet before touching the real license so you don’t smudge it!

How can I practically include my dog in our wedding ceremony?

Including your dog is less about posing and more about planning. Think: a leash or harness that looks good in photos, plenty of treats and water, poop bags on hand, and someone designated to wrangle your pup when it’s not their moment. I break down some real-world tips for having your dog at your ceremony here.

Please let me meet your dog.