How to Knit a Sweater for a Puppy
When cold weather strikes, it can become more difficult to get dogs to go for their daily walks. This is especially true if you have a puppy or little dog, or one with a thin coat, as these types of dogs feel the cold more acutely than big, fluffy dogs. Therefore, a sensible solution to helping your dog feel more comfortable when walking and playing outside is to make him a sweater.
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Things You'll Need
- Knitting pattern
- Knitting needles
- Yarn
- Scissors
- Velcro strips
- Sewing needle
- Thread
Instructions
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1
Select your knitting pattern. These are available at craft stores and include instructions based on your puppy's measurements. Alternatively, patterns for doggy sweaters are also available online. Purchase the amount of yarn you'll need according to the pattern directions.
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2
Cast on the required number of stitches as instructed by your pattern. This should be the same width as your puppy's backside, measuring across the top from leg to leg. Start with a few rows of ribbing, as this will encourage the sweater to lay flat without rolling. Dog sweaters are usually open at the bottom and fasten at the chest for the puppy's comfort.
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3
After knitting a few inches, add on four to six more stitches on every row, increasing the number until the top of the work is as wide as your puppy's tummy circumference. Ensure that the two sides overlap slightly, allowing enough slack to attach the fabric fastener.
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4
Bind off the stitches on either side of the sweater when you reach the length that corresponds with your puppy's shoulder. Only bind off the stitches that are intended to cover his tummy, as the top of the sweater will continue. For this portion, however, it is best to leave the dog's legs free for running and playing.
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5
Knit several rows until the sweater's length is long enough to surpass the puppy's shoulders. Cast on stitches at either side until it is wide enough to wrap around the puppy's neck, allowing some slack for to attach the fabric fastener. Knit this portion until you come to the top of the dog's neck, then cast off.
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6
Hand sew the fabric fastener strips to the portion of the sweater intended to wrap around your puppy's tummy and neck. Trim away the excess strips.
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Tips & Warnings
Even if your fabric fastener states that it's adhesive, do not allow the adhesive to act as the only bond holding it in place. Sew in the fastener accordingly, as the fastening must be strong when little dogs are involved.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Digital Vision./Photodisc/Getty Images
