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The Poet Dog Sweater Pattern

The Poet Dog Sweater Pattern
4.4★ Rating
4-6 Hours Time Needed
3.1K Made This
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Beginner Friendly Level

Perfect for those just starting their sewing journey, with clear instructions and simple techniques

⏱️

Weekend Treat

Takes 5-7 hours, making it an enjoyable project to finish over a couple of days.

🐾

Pocket Pal

A mini friend to carry anywhere, providing comfort and companionship in a perfectly portable size.

About This The Poet Dog Sweater Pattern

This adorable dog sweater pattern is worked in two main pieces—a Back panel and an Underpiece—that are sewn together with strategic openings for your pup's legs. The design features a comfortable ribbed collar using front post and back post double crochet stitches that add texture and stretch. With three size options available, you can customize the fit for dogs from small breeds to larger companions, ensuring every furry friend gets the perfect cozy layer.

The Poet Dog Sweater Pattern crochet pattern - detailed view of completed project

The simple single crochet construction makes this an ideal project for beginners looking to create something practical and gift-worthy. The soft Homespun yarn creates a plush, warm fabric that's gentle against your pet's fur while providing real warmth during cold weather walks.

Why You'll Love This The Poet Dog Sweater Pattern

I absolutely love this pattern because it combines practicality with pure joy—there's nothing quite like seeing your beloved pet wearing something you made with your own hands. The straightforward construction means you're not wrestling with complicated shaping or confusing instructions, yet the finished sweater looks polished and professional. I especially appreciate how the ribbed collar and leg trims add that special handcrafted touch without requiring advanced skills. Plus, the three size options mean you can make matching sweaters for multiple dogs or adjust the pattern as your puppy grows. It's a weekend project that delivers maximum cuteness and keeps your furry companion cozy all winter long.

The Poet Dog Sweater Pattern step 1 - construction progress The Poet Dog Sweater Pattern step 2 - assembly progress The Poet Dog Sweater Pattern step 3 - details and accessories The Poet Dog Sweater Pattern step 4 - final assembly and finishing

Switch Things Up

I love how versatile this dog sweater pattern is—you can truly make it your own with just a few creative tweaks. Try using striped yarn or switching colors every few rows to create a bold, eye-catching design that matches your dog's personality. If your pup loves a bit of sparkle, consider adding a decorative button or small appliqué to the back panel for extra flair.

For dogs who need extra warmth, I sometimes work the entire piece in a tighter gauge or add an extra round to the ribbed collar for more coverage around the neck. You could also experiment with different stitch patterns in the main body—try working in half double crochet instead of single crochet for a slightly looser, drapier fabric that moves beautifully.

I've also made versions with contrasting trim colors, which really makes the ribbed edges pop and gives the sweater a more polished, designer look. Consider personalizing it further by adding a crocheted name tag or small pocket on the back where you could tuck a waste bag or small treat. The possibilities are truly endless, and each modification makes the sweater uniquely suited to your beloved companion.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

✗ Not checking gauge before starting can result in a sweater that's too tight or too loose for your dog's measurements ✗ Forgetting to leave the correct length open for leg openings may make it difficult for your dog to wear comfortably ✗ Sewing pieces together too tightly can restrict movement and make the sweater uncomfortable for active dogs to wear ✗ Skipping the ribbed trim on neck and legs results in a less polished look and reduces the sweater's stretch and fit

The Poet Dog Sweater Pattern

Create a cozy, stylish sweater for your furry companion with this charming crochet pattern. Designed in three sizes to fit small to extra-large dogs, this sweater features a textured ribbed collar and leg openings for comfort and style. Using soft Lion Brand Homespun yarn, you'll craft a warm, wearable piece that keeps your pet snug during chilly walks and outdoor adventures. Perfect for crocheters who want to pamper their pets with handmade love, this pattern combines simple stitches with thoughtful shaping to create a professional-looking garment your dog will actually enjoy wearing.

Beginner Friendly 4-6 Hours

Materials Needed for The Poet Dog Sweater Pattern

— Main Fabric

  • 01
    Lion Brand Homespun yarn in Edwardian color (98% Acrylic, 2% Polyester)
  • 02
    2 balls for Small size, 2 balls for Medium/Large size, 3 balls for 1X/2X size
  • 03
    185 yards per 6 oz ball

— Tools Required

  • 01
    Crochet hook size K-10.5 (6.5mm)
  • 02
    Lion Brand Large-Eye Blunt Needles (Set of 6)
  • 03
    Scissors
  • 04
    Measuring tape
  • 05
    Stitch markers (optional but helpful)

Progress Tracker

0% Complete

— BACK

Foundation:

Ch 33 (41, 49)

Row 1 (RS):

Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across – 32 (40, 48) sc

Row 2:

Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across

Info:

Rep Row 2 until piece measures about 9 (12 1/2, 15 1/2) in. (23 (32, 39.5) cm) from beg

— Shape Top

Decrease Row:

Ch 1, turn, sc2tog, sc in each st to last 3 sts, sc2tog, sc in last st – 30 (38, 46) sts

Next Row:

Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across

Info:

Rep last 2 rows until – 20 (26, 32) sts rem. Fasten off

— UNDERPIECE

Foundation:

Ch 15 (17, 19)

Row 1 (RS):

Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across – 14 (16, 18) sc

Row 2:

Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across

Info:

Rep Row 2 until piece measures about 4 (7, 10) in. (10 (18, 25.5) cm) from beg

— Shape Top

Decrease Row:

Ch 1, turn, sc2tog, sc in each st to last 3 sts, sc2tog, sc in last st – 12 (14, 16) sts

Next Row:

Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across

Info:

Rep last 2 rows until – 8 sts rem. Fasten off

— FINISHING

Assembly:

Beg at neck edge, sew sides of Underpiece to Back for 1 1/2 (2, 2 1/2) in. (4 (5, 6.5) cm); leave next 1 1/2 (2, 2 1/2) in. (4 (5, 6.5) cm) open for legs, then sew remainder of Underpiece to Back. Note that the lower portion of the Back remains unsewn

— Neck Trim

Rnd 1 (RS):

From RS, join yarn with sc in any st along neck edge, work 31 (39, 45) more sc evenly spaced around neck edge; join with sl st in first sc – 32 (40, 46) sc

Rnd 2:

Ch 2 (does not count as a st), FPDC around same sc as joining, BPDC around next st, *FPDC around next st, BPDC around next st; rep from * around; join with sl st in top of beg ch

Rnds 3-5:

Ch 2, *FPDC around next FPDC, BPDC around next BPDC; rep from * around; join with sl st in top of beg ch. Fasten off

— Leg Opening Trim

Rnd 1 (RS):

From RS, join yarn with sc anywhere along edge of leg opening, work 15 (19, 25) more sc evenly spaced around edge of leg opening; join with sl st in first sc – 16 (20, 26) sc

Rnd 2:

Rep Rnd 2 of Neck Trim. Fasten off

Info:

Rep on opposite leg opening

— Lower Edge Trim

Finishing:

From RS, join yarn with sc anywhere along lower edge of Sweater, work sc evenly spaced around lower edge, working 2 sc in each corner; join with sl st in first sc. Fasten off. Weave in ends

Assembly Instructions

  • Begin at the neck edge and carefully sew the sides of the Underpiece to the Back piece for 1 1/2 (2, 2 1/2) inches depending on your size
  • Leave the next 1 1/2 (2, 2 1/2) inches completely open on each side to create leg openings for your dog's front legs
  • Continue sewing the remainder of the Underpiece to the Back, keeping the lower back portion unsewn for easy wear
  • Work the ribbed neck trim by joining yarn and creating evenly spaced single crochet stitches around the entire neck opening
  • Add the textured ribbed collar using alternating front post and back post double crochet stitches for rounds 2-5
  • Complete each leg opening with single crochet trim followed by the same ribbed pattern used on the neck
  • Finish by adding single crochet trim around the lower edge of the sweater, working 2 sc in each corner for smooth shaping

Important Notes

  • 💡Always check your gauge before starting to ensure the sweater will fit your dog properly and comfortably
  • 💡Measure your dog's neck circumference, chest, and length before choosing a size to ensure the best fit
  • 💡Use stitch markers to mark leg opening positions before sewing to maintain symmetrical placement on both sides
  • 💡The lower back portion should remain unsewn to allow the sweater to drape naturally over your dog's back
  • 💡When working the ribbed trim, maintain consistent tension to create an even, stretchy edge that fits comfortably
  • 💡Weave in all ends securely as dogs can pull on loose yarn, which could unravel your hard work

This delightful dog sweater pattern brings warmth and style to your four-legged family member with minimal effort and maximum charm. The combination of simple single crochet construction and elegant ribbed details creates a professional-looking garment that any pet parent would be proud to show off. Whether you're crafting for your own pup or creating a thoughtful gift for a dog-loving friend, this pattern delivers cozy comfort and adorable style. Watch your furry companion strut their stuff in their handmade sweater and feel the joy of making something both beautiful and useful. 🐾 Happy crocheting! 🧶✨

You ask,

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FAQs

What size should I make for my dog?

Measure your dog's neck circumference, chest around the widest part, and length from neck to tail base. Compare these measurements to the finished measurements in the pattern. Small fits 11-inch neck and 18.5-inch chest, Medium/Large fits 13.5-inch neck and 22.5-inch chest, and 1X/2X fits 16-inch neck and 26-inch chest.

Can I use a different yarn than Lion Brand Homespun?

Yes, you can substitute any bulky weight yarn that matches the gauge of 10 sc and 10 rows equals 4 inches. Keep in mind that different yarn textures will create different fabric feels, so choose something soft that won't irritate your dog's skin.

How do I know where to place the leg openings?

The pattern specifies exact measurements for leg opening placement based on size. Starting from the neck edge, sew for 1.5 to 2.5 inches, leave 1.5 to 2.5 inches open for the leg, then continue sewing. Pin the pieces together first to ensure proper placement before stitching.

What if my dog is between sizes?

It's generally better to size up for comfort, especially if your dog has a thick coat. You can also adjust the length by working more or fewer rows before beginning the decrease section for the top shaping.

Is this sweater machine washable?

Since the pattern uses acrylic yarn, it's typically machine washable on gentle cycle with cool water. However, always check the specific care instructions on your yarn label and consider hand washing to preserve the sweater's shape and texture for longer wear.