Description
Create a cozy crochet reindeer snood for a dog using a simple half double crochet stitch and gentle shaping. This beginner-friendly project is perfect for keeping your dog’s ears warm in cooler weather, combining practicality and charm.
Ingredients
- Worsted weight yarn (weight 4, medium), acrylic, about 220 total yards (201 m), or two 100 g skeins of about 170 yards (155 m) each
- H-8 (5.0 mm) crochet hook
- Yarn needle for weaving in the ends
- Small scissors
- Two stitch markers (optional)
- Tape measure
- Small amount of contrasting worsted weight yarn for inner ears (optional)
Instructions
- Measure the dog's neck where the snood will sit, adding about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of ease.
- Make a foundation chain of 52 stitches. Join the last chain to the first with a slip stitch, being careful not to twist the chain.
- Chain 1, then work 1 half double crochet in each chain around. Join with a slip stitch to complete the round.
- Repeat this round until the tube measures 5 inches (13 cm) from the foundation edge.
- For lower hood shaping, chain 1 and work 1 half double crochet in the first 26 stitches. Turn your work, working back and forth across half the tube.
- Repeat this row for 3 rows total, keeping 26 stitches in each row.
- Shape the top edge with a decrease: Chain 1, work 1 half double crochet in the first stitch, then a half double crochet decrease across the next two stitches. Continue until the end, resulting in 24 stitches.
- Chain 1 and work 1 half double crochet in each of the 24 stitches. Turn. Repeat this row once more.
- Work the final shaping row: Chain 1, work 1 half double crochet in the first stitch, then a half double crochet decrease across the next two stitches. Continue until you've reached 22 stitches.
- Fasten off, leaving an 8-inch (20 cm) tail. Folding the top edge evenly, seam the upper edge with small whip stitches.
- Make two ears: For each ear, chain 10. Starting in the second chain from the hook, work 1 single crochet in each chain for 5 rows, then decrease at both ends of the next 2 rows. Fasten off with a long tail.
- Stitch each ear to the top of the hood and add contrasting inner-ear pieces if desired.
- Try the snood on the dog, ensuring it fits comfortably and doesn't press against the eyes or nose.
- Weave in all ends and block lightly if needed.
Notes
Ensure the fabric is not too tight around the dog's neck. Supervise your dog while wearing the snood and only use during controlled situations.