Dog Sweaters
I must admit, the thought of pet clothing seemed a little bit strange, and somewhat cruel to me. Forcing your poor unsuspecting pal into some stuffy (and often dorky-looking) outfit just wasn't my idea of repaying friendship. But even I have to say, once I started searching for patterns for vest-style dog sweaters, I was slowly won over to the other side.
The selection for dog clothing is not to be believed. Dresses, jackets, full body suits and more, your pooch could very well have a more extensive wardrobe than you or I. But what do you really expect to find when you're probing for dog vests? One or two sloppy patterns with pictures of goofy looking dogs dolled up in them. I was amazed at the abundance of variety there is available once I started researching. Everything from a simple one-piece wrap around to fully lined, hooded, and detailed vests are out there. And that's before you even start with material!
Dog vests also serve many different purposes. Of course, the typical sweater vest for looking smart is the most common. But that is really just the beginning. There are swimming life vests for pooches in the pool or rivers. The usual dog harness vest is good for keeping the more enthusiastic pets close at hand. Then you have your reflective safety vests so you and Fido can go for a late night ramble. And definitely the most unusual variety of puppy apparel is the bulletproof vests for K-9 coppers!
So my search for dog sweaters and vests was both enlightening and amusing. Though you can buy snazzy dog sweaters for anywhere from $5.99 to $95, good patterns for making your own dog sweaters can be hard to find. Here are a few neat little ones I saw. While they're not as reliable in a cross fire, they will keep your pup warm and looking cute!
1) http://www.sewing.circleofcrafters.com/freepetvestpattern.html- This is a fun dog vest pattern that can be done chick chock. Cut out the material as per pattern, sew together the edges, and attach Velcro. In a matter of minutes your pup will be looking sharp!
2) http://www.doggoneknit.com/patterns/crochet/onepiecesolid.html- Here is an easy free dog sweater pattern for beginners with the crochet hook (see our home page for more great beginner crochet patterns and tips). If you already have a lot of experience crocheting, you can turn this into a neater-looking sweater with a more finished look by separating the two sides (instead of keeping them closed on the belly), or adding sleeves.
Here are a few tips to make your great vest-style dog sweaters even better:
If you don't know what size your puppy pal is, you can measure him easily. (A measuring tape will work best, but you can even use a string and ruler.) Wrap the measuring tape or string around the widest part of your dog's chest, and note the number of inches he/she is around. That is the most important part the rest can be estimated and tapered.
Buttons and zippers are fine for doggy backs, but can be uncomfortable and even dangerous (an easy choking hazard) if sewn belly-side. A good solution to this problem is Velcro or elastic.
A fun addition to an already nice dog vest is to use two different colors or designs and make your vest reversible.
Remember who will be wearing this vest when shopping for materials. Dogs are low down to the ground, like rolling around in the dirt, and are seldom potty trained. Please do yourself a favor, and make sure you get something that is machine washable!
If you own a Singer sewing machine these free sewing tutorials will definitely come in handy.
I still think some pet owners go a little overboard (diamond-studded collars and matching booties - anyone?), but dog sweaters are a legitimate middle ground. Keep Rover warm and cozy with this unique addition to puppy paraphernalia.