Crochet Dog Sweater || Free Crochet Pattern & Video Tutorial
It is time to make a crochet family dog sweater for your favorite family pet. Keep pup cozy in this crochet dog sweater from Red Heart. Follow along with the free pattern and watch the useful tutorial video on the Marly Bird YouTube Channel.
WORSTED WEIGHT YARN
This pattern is made with Red Heart Super Saver yarn but you could use any worsted weight yarn in 4 contrasting colors to make this colorful fair isle stranded yoke crochet sweater for your family dog.
FAMILY DOG SWEATER VIDEO TUTORIAL
In the video I teach how to read this intermediate crochet pattern, how to read and use the chart for the colorwork, and how to do the stranded crochet colorwork. Because the pattern is labeled as intermediate I assume the viewer has a good grasp on crochet and just needs help with how to read the pattern and how to do the more complex fair isle crochet technique.
Therefore, I do want to let you know that in the video I didn’t not go in depth teaching how to do the final body of the dog sweater or the edging and trim because I figured if you are capable of doing the crochet fair isle you could totally finish the sweater without any more instructions.
*I did make the size small in the video for my chihuahua, Lucy. I used a different color on the leg ribbing than suggested in the pattern and I was excited to try it on her. But…it turned out too small 🙁
So a word of caution, be sure to measure your dog to see if the size you chose will fit.
HOW TO MEASURE FOR A DOG SWEATER
Measuring your dog can be confusing. Like any sizing applied to garments, each designer has a general measurement they strive to reach but each designer is different. So, the best thing to do is measure your pup then compare that to the measurements given in the crochet dog sweater pattern.
I found this image online showing the places you should measure on your pup to get the best fit.
GET THE FAMILY DOG SWEATER PATTERN
This is a free pattern available from Yarnspirations. They are the home of Red Heart Yarn and have over 3000+ free patterns available for you to check out. So once you click here to get the pattern, be sure to check out some other favorites.
10 MORE CROCHET DOG SWEATER PATTERNS
If you want to try some other fun dog friendly patterns I have a list of 10 Crochet Dog Sweaters for you to check out NOW!
- FUN AND COLORFUL DOG SWEATER PATTERN ????
- SWEATER FOR PUPPY AND A COWL FOR YOU || WIN WIN❣️
- MY DOG PENNY NEEDS ONE OF THESE IN PINK ????
- THIS ONE HAS A VIDEO TUTORIAL TOO! ????
- CLASSIC AND ON TREND ⭐️
- LA-DI-DA IT’S A DOGS LIFE ????
- GIRLIE GIRLIE DOG SWEATER ❤️
- THE BEES KNEES ????
- ONE FOR ALL SIZES ???? || ONE OF MY FAVS
- MAKE ONE FOR THE WHOLE KENNEL ????
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I measure my dog for a crocheted sweater?
Three key measurements! Back length: measure from the base of the neck to the base of the tail (or where you want the sweater to end). Chest circumference: measure around the widest point, just behind the front legs. Neck circumference: measure where the collar sits. Measure while your dog is standing up, not sitting. Compare your measurements to the pattern’s sizing chart and choose the size that matches with a little room to move comfortably. The sweater should fit snugly without being tight… your dog needs to walk, sit, and be active without restriction.
What yarn is best for a crochet dog sweater?
Machine washable is absolutely essential! Dog sweaters get dirty, muddy, and… well, doggy. You need to be able to toss it in the washing machine regularly. Soft acrylic in worsted weight is the most practical choice… it’s affordable for making multiple sizes or replacing when worn out, gentle against dog skin, and stands up to washing. For dogs with skin sensitivities, a very soft acrylic or a soft cotton blend minimizes irritation. Avoid anything that sheds excessively (dogs groom themselves and could ingest fibers) or anything very itchy or stiff.
What size should I make if my dog is between pattern sizes?
Go up a size! A slightly loose sweater is much more comfortable for a dog than a slightly tight one. Dogs need freedom to move, breathe, and do their dog things. If the chest measurement puts you between sizes, choose the larger. If the length is the issue, you can often add or remove a few rows from the body section to adjust without changing the rest of the pattern. When in doubt, the dog’s comfort over aesthetic perfection… they appreciate the warmth and love, not the perfect silhouette.
Will my dog actually wear the sweater?
Dogs vary widely in sweater tolerance! Some dogs love sweaters and seem comforted and confident in them. Others are miserable and refuse to walk properly. A few tips for successful sweater wearing: introduce it gradually with lots of positive reinforcement and treats. Start with short wear times and increase gradually. Choose a well-fitting sweater that doesn’t restrict movement. Pay attention to your dog’s body language… a relaxed dog who’s moving normally is enjoying their sweater. A dog who freezes, walks awkwardly, or keeps trying to remove it should be respected and have it taken off.
Are crocheted dog sweaters appropriate for all breeds?
Most appropriate for smaller dogs and short-haired dogs who benefit most from warmth in cold weather! Chihuahuas, Miniature Pinschers, Greyhounds, Italian Greyhounds, Whippets, and other thin-coated or small dogs genuinely benefit from a sweater in cold weather. Large dogs with double coats (Huskies, Malamutes, German Shepherds) generally don’t need sweaters and can overheat. Medium dogs vary by coat type and cold tolerance. Always prioritize your dog’s comfort and temperature regulation over the fun of dressing them up.
Categories: Crochet, Free Patterns, Pattern, Round Ups, YouTube Video Tutorial
Love this! My friend wants me to make a sweater for her three pound Chihuahua but since she lives in another state I’ve been reluctant. Would you say the size you used for Lucy would be good?