About This Dog Granny Square Crochet Pattern
This Dog Granny Square pattern brings together classic granny square construction with adorable character details. Starting with a circular base worked in beige yarn, you'll build outward to create the traditional square corners with their iconic chain-two spaces. The real magic happens when you add the dimensional features: a brown eye patch, two expressive black eyes, a sweet nose, and floppy ears that fold forward for extra charm. Each component is worked separately and then stitched onto the completed square base.
The pattern uses basic crochet stitches throughout, making it accessible for beginners while still creating an impressive finished piece. The 11cm square size is perfect for joining multiples into larger projects or using individually as coasters or appliqués.
Why You'll Love This Dog Granny Square Crochet Pattern
I absolutely love how this pattern transforms a simple granny square into something full of personality! The combination of traditional granny square techniques with cute character details makes it feel both nostalgic and fresh. I'm particularly fond of how the ears fold forward to give the dog a sweet, floppy-eared look that adds dimension and charm. The color-changing technique in the rounds teaches valuable skills while keeping the project interesting, and the separate facial features mean you can customize the expression to your liking. It's quick enough to complete in an evening yet impressive enough that everyone will ask you to make them one!
Switch Things Up
I love experimenting with this pattern by changing up the color combinations to create different dog breeds! Try using white and black yarn for a Dalmatian look, or golden yellow for a Labrador. You could even add spots using duplicate stitch after assembly for a more realistic appearance.
For a more modern twist, I sometimes work the base square in variegated yarn, which creates a beautiful ombre effect while still letting the dog face stand out clearly. The facial features always remain in contrasting solid colors for maximum visibility and cuteness.
If you're feeling adventurous, try making the ears in different colors or adding a small bow between them using ribbon or a tiny crocheted flower. I've also experimented with safety eyes instead of crocheted eyes for a more polished, toy-like appearance.
Consider making a whole series of squares featuring different animals by adapting the facial features—cats with pointed ears, bears with round ears, or bunnies with long upright ears. The basic square construction remains the same, making it easy to create an entire menagerie!
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
✗ Not tightening the magic ring completely before moving to the next round, which creates a hole in the center of the square
✗ Forgetting to work the corner stitches (2tc + ch2 + 2tc) in the same stitch, resulting in a rectangular shape instead of a square
✗ Placing the eye patch too high or low on the square, which throws off the proportions of the dog's face
✗ Skipping the invisible finish technique and creating visible joins that detract from the polished look of the square
✗ Not aligning the ears properly to the corners where the triple crochet clusters are located, making them appear crooked
✗ Stuffing or pulling the facial features too tightly when stitching them on, which causes the square to pucker and warp
