Free Wheat Stitch Dog Sweater Crochet Pattern (Easy!)

My dog Luna is the world’s most patient photo model and the inspiration behind this pattern. I had been using the Wheat Stitch™ for everything, from blankets to sweaters to scarves, and eventually I looked at Luna and realized she needed one too. So I grabbed my Herrschners Worsted 8 in Rust and designed this from scratch, adjusting the fit until the leg holes lined up just right. It worked. This post walks you through the XS size, while the full PDF includes all 8 sizes, from XXS to 3X, so pups of all shapes can join in.

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This free dog sweater crochet pattern is worked in simple rows and rounds, making it beginner-friendly yet packed with texture thanks to my signature wheat stitch. Whether you’re crocheting for your own fur baby or making a heartfelt handmade gift, this sweater will keep tails wagging. Make the large size Wheat Stitch Nesting Basket to fill with dog toys, or even make a You, Me, & The Dog Blanket!

Crochet Supplies for the XS Wheat Stitch Dog Sweater

Yarn

Herrschners Worsted 8
100% Acrylic
489yds/226g

Yarn Quantities

145yds – 1 skein

Best yarn for a crochet dog sweater (what I recommend and why)

For this pattern, I used Herrschners Worsted 8 — a 100% acrylic worsted weight yarn that checks every box for a dog sweater: it’s durable, machine washable, and holds its shape well through repeated wear and washing. And trust me, a dog sweater will get washed repeatedly.

Washability is non-negotiable. Dog sweaters get muddy, slobbery, and everything in between. Whatever yarn you choose, make sure the label says machine washable — or at minimum, easy hand wash. Anything that requires dry cleaning or delicate handling is going to end up in a drawer after the second time your pup rolls in something.

Think about fiber and warmth. For a winter sweater, you want a yarn with some insulating quality, but not so heavy that your dog overheats on a brisk walk. A standard worsted-weight acrylic hits this sweet spot well. It provides enough warmth for cold days without trapping excess heat. If you’re crocheting for a breed that runs warm or has a thick undercoat (looking at you, husky mix owners), consider going down a hook size for a slightly more open fabric rather than switching to a bulkier yarn.

Softness matters more than you’d think. Dogs can’t tell you the sweater is scratchy — they’ll just try to wiggle out of it. Look for acrylic blends labeled “soft” or “smooth” rather than anything textured or rough to the touch. My top substitutes for this pattern are Brava Worsted (silky smooth, great color range) and Mighty Stitch (an acrylic/wool blend that adds a little extra warmth without bulk). Both are already listed in the supplies section above, either will work beautifully. And of course I love the color range and feel of Lion Brand Color Theory,

Remember always to check the gauge and drape when substituting yarns.

Crochet Hook

Size US G+/7 (4.5mm) & H (5.0mm) Crochet Hook or hook to obtain gauge.

Notions

Scissors
Yarn Needle
Removable Stitch Marker

Skill Level

Advanced Beginner

Comfortable fit – Designed with leg holes and harness access for easy walks.

Textured stitch design – The wheat stitch adds a gorgeous knit-like texture that looks as good as it feels.

Perfect gift – Handmade dog sweaters make thoughtful presents for pet parents.

Inclusive sizing – 8 sizes included in the Full PDF (XXS–3X) in my Etsy and Ravelry shops so every pup can stay cozy.

Dog sweater sizing guide — Wheat Stitch™ sizes XXS to 3X

Size	XXS	XS	S	M	L	XL	2X	3X
A — Neck	9.25	10.5	14.25	15.5	17	19	21	23
B — Chest	13.5	15.5	19	22	25	29	32	36
C — Length	8.5	10	12	14	16	18	20	22

How to measure your dog for a crochet sweater (get the fit right)

Measuring your dog accurately is key to getting a handmade sweater that fits just right—snug but comfy.

Use a soft measuring tape.
A flexible sewing tape measure is best. If you don’t have one, use a piece of string and then measure the string with a ruler.

Measure while your dog is standing.
Get your pup to stand naturally—no slouching or stretching. This gives the most accurate read on their true size.

Chest (Girth) – the most important measurement! Wrap the tape around the widest part of your dog’s chest—usually just behind the front legs. Make sure the tape is snug but not tight; you should be able to slip one finger underneath it.
Fluffy Dog Tip: If your dog has a very fluffy coat, take that into account and give a little extra room for comfort.

Neck circumference.
Measure around the base of the neck, where a collar would naturally sit—not too high up near the ears.

Length from neck to tail.
Measure from the base of the neck (where it meets the shoulders) to the start of the tail. This determines how long the sweater should be. This will be adjustable.

Leg hole placement (optional but helpful).
If your pattern includes leg holes, it helps to measure from the base of the neck down to where your dog’s front legs meet the body. This ensures proper placement.

Don’t forget ease! If your dog is between sizes, it’s often better to size up.

Abbreviations

blo – back loop only
ch – chain
flo – front loop only
RS – right side
sc – single crochet
sl st – slip stitch
st(s) – stitch(es)
WS – wrong side

Gauge

14 sts and 12 rows = 4″ by 4″

How to Crochet A Gauge Swatch

Working a gauge swatch will let you know if you will have the correct sizing for this pattern. It will also help you practice the stitches used in this project and improve your stitch work for a flawless look.
Are you struggling to match the gauge? Check out the blog post on What is Crochet Gauge and How To Fix It

Because the stitch pattern is repetitive and rhythmic, you can easily adjust the length for longer or shorter dogs.

Want to match your pooch? Check out the Winter Wheat Stitch Sweater Scarf and the Braided Wheat Stitch Easy Top!

Special Stitches

Puff Stitch: Yarn over and insert your hook into the stitch/space. Yarn over again and pull up a long loop. Yarn over and insert your hook into the same stitch/space. Yarn over again and pull up a long loop (5 loops on the hook). Yarn over and pull through the first 4 loops, yarn over and pull through remaining loops.

Pattern Notes

• Before you dive into your project, take a moment to identify the stitch and row counts that match the size you’re making. By highlighting or marking them, you’ll save time and effort later on.
• A ch 1 at the beginning of a row is not counted as a stitch.
• Work the first row of stitches in the back humps of the starting chain.
• When counting rows, count the underside of the garment between the legs for the body, not along the back.
• Foundation Single Crochet: To see a video of the foundation single crochet, visit:
  https://youtu.be/-QazGSq7IC4

FAQs About the Wheat Stitch™ Dog Sweater

Q: What size should I make for my dog?
A: The PDF pattern includes 8 sizes (XXS–3X) with a detailed measurement chart. Take chest and back length measurements of your pup to ensure the best fit. (This free version only includes the size XS!)

Q: Is this sweater pattern beginner-friendly?
A: Yes! If you know how to work single crochet and can follow increases and my wheat stitch, you’ll find this project very approachable. The included video tutorial makes it even easier.

Q: Can I adjust the length of the sweater?
A: Absolutely. Since it’s worked in rows and rounds, you can easily add or remove rows to match your dog’s body length.

Q: What kind of yarn works best?
A: Medium weight (worsted) yarn works beautifully, giving the sweater structure without being too bulky. Choose soft, washable fibers for comfort and convenience.

Q: Can I sell finished sweaters from this pattern?
A: Yes! You’re welcome to sell finished items made from this pattern at craft fairs, on Etsy, or anywhere else you sell your work. All I ask is that you credit the design, a simple “pattern by Briana K Designs” in your listing description is perfect. Please don’t sell or distribute the written pattern itself, but the finished sweaters are completely yours to sell.

Dog sweaters are genuinely strong sellers at craft fairs and holiday markets, people love buying handmade gifts for their pets, and a textured sweater like this one photographs beautifully for an Etsy listing. If you’re selling online, I’d recommend noting the size and measurements in your listing so buyers can confirm the fit for their pup before purchasing.

Video Tutorial for the XS Wheat Stitch Dog Sweater

The Ad-Free PDF can be purchased on Etsy or Ravelry.

Written Crochet Pattern Instructions – XS Dog Sweater

Neck Ribbing

Tip: Try the neckband on your dog to test the fit and adjust as needed.

Setup in the Round

Use H (5.0mm) Hook for rest of Dog Sweater

Working along the edge of the ribbing, sl st one stitch per row, join and turn. The next section of the pattern will be worked in rounds. | 42 sts

XS Dog Sweater Body

Working in Rounds: Upper Chest

Rnd 1:

Working in the flo for this rnd, ch 1 (does not count as a st here and throughout), 2 sc in first, sc in the next 6 sts, *2 sc in next, sc in the next 6 sts; repeat from * around, join and turn. | 48 sts

Rnd 2:

Ch 1, blo 2 sc in first, blo sc in the next 7 sts, *blo 2 sc in next, blo sc in the next 7 sts; repeat from * around, join and turn. | 54 sts

Rnds 3-4:

Ch 1, skip the first st, sc in next, work a puff st into the skipped st, *skip the next st, sc in next, work a puff st into the skipped st; repeat from * around, join and turn.

Rnd 5:

Ch 1, blo sc in each st around, join and turn. | 54 sts

Working in Rows: Lower Chest (Between the Front Legs)

Row 6:

Ch 1, blo sc 10 sts, turn, leaving remaining sts unworked. | 10 sts

Rows 7-8:

Ch 1, sc in first, *skip the next st, sc in next, work a puff st into the skipped st; repeat from * until the last st, sc in last, turn.

Row 9:

Ch 1, blo sc 10 sts, turn.

Working in Rounds: Creates Legholes & Leash Opening

Rnd 12:

Ch 1, skip the first st, sc in next, work a puff st into the skipped st, *skip the next st, sc in next, work a puff st into the skipped st; repeat from * around, join and turn.

Rnds 13-14:

Ch 1, blo sc in each st around, join and turn.

Rnds 15-16:

Ch 1, skip the first st, sc in next, work a puff st into the skipped st, *skip the next st, sc in next, work a puff st into the skipped st; repeat from * around, join and turn.

Rnds 17-20:

Repeat Rnds 13-16.

Working in Rows: Back

Row 21:

Ch 1, blo sc2tog, blo sc 40, blo sc2tog, leave the remaining sts unworked, turn. | 42 sts

Row 22:

Ch 1, blo sc2tog, blo sc until the last 2 sts, blo sc2tog, turn. | 40 sts

Row 23:

Ch 1, sc2tog, *skip the next st, sc in next, work a puff st into the skipped st; repeat from * until the last 2 sts, sc2tog, turn. | 38 sts

Row 24:

Ch 1, sc2tog, sc in next, *skip the next st, sc in next, work a puff st into the skipped st; repeat from * until the last 3 sts, sc in next, sc2tog, turn. | 36 sts

Row 25:

Ch 1, blo sc2tog, blo sc 32, blo sc2tog, turn. | 34 sts

Row 26:

Ch 1, blo sc2tog, blo sc until the last 2 sts, blo sc2tog, turn. | 32 sts

Row 27:

Ch 1, sc2tog, *skip the next st, sc in next, work a puff st into the skipped st; repeat from * until the last 2 sts, sc2tog, turn. | 30 sts

Row 28:

Ch 1, sc2tog, sc in next, *skip the next st, sc in next, work a puff st into the skipped st; repeat from * until the last 3 sts, sc in next, sc2tog, turn. | 28 sts

Continue to sc around the bottom opening. See video for tips on a clean edge. Join to the top of the first st and fasten off.

Finishing

Weave in all ends and put the sweater on your furry friend! 

How to care for a crocheted dog sweater

A little care goes a long way in keeping this sweater looking great season after season.

Washing. If you used one of the recommended acrylic yarns from the supplies list, you’re in luck; most are machine washable on a gentle cycle with cold water. If you substituted a wool blend like Mighty Stitch, hand-wash in cool water with a gentle soap and skip the agitation. When in doubt, check the yarn label before tossing it in.

Drying. Always lay flat to dry, regardless of fiber. The sweater will lose its shape in a dryer, especially the ribbed neckline. Lay it on a clean towel, gently reshape it, and let it air-dry completely before putting it back on your pup or storing it.

Storage between seasons. Once it’s fully dry, fold it flat and store it in a breathable bag or a drawer, not a sealed plastic bin, which can trap moisture. A cedar block nearby doesn’t hurt if you’re storing wool blends.

With proper care, this sweater will last for multiple winters, which honestly makes the time you put into crocheting it even more worth it.

The Wheat Stitch™ Dog Sweater is more than just a crochet pattern, it’s a way to show love to your furry friends while keeping them cozy and stylish. With 8 sizes, a beautiful textured stitch, and a simple one-piece design, this sweater is a must-make for dog owners and gift-givers alike. So grab your yarn, measure your pup, and whip up a sweater that’s as cute as it is cozy! ??

Cheers, and happy crocheting!

Share your finished dog sweater!

I love seeing this pattern come to life on real pups, every dog wears it a little differently and I am never tired of it. When you finish yours, share it on Instagram with #brianakdesigns or post it in the Briana K Designs Community Group on Facebook. The community there is incredibly kind and would love to cheer you on (and see your dog, obviously).

You can also link your finished project on Ravelry, photos on Ravelry help other crocheters decide on yarn colors and see how the sweater fits different breeds, which is genuinely useful for everyone.

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