I’m excited to share a book review for Crocheted Dogs by Vanessa Mooncie. The free excerpted crochet yorkie pattern for the Yorkshire Terrier was available through September 30, 2025.
This post contains affiliate links. I may receive compensation (at no added cost to you) if you make a purchase using these links. GMC Publications Ltd provided me with a free review copy of Crocheted Dogs (available through independent booksellers or here on Amazon) by Vanessa Mooncie. Although I accept free products for review, I do not accept additional compensation, nor do I guarantee a positive review. My reviews are based entirely on my honest opinions.
Book Review: Crocheted Dogs
Crocheted Dogs (available through independent booksellers or here on Amazon) by Vanessa Mooncie is a crochet pattern book that includes ten softie amigurumi patterns for dogs. I’ve previously reviewed three other books by Vanessa (Crocheted Animal Rugs, Animal Heads: Trophies to Crochet, and Monster Hats: 15 Scary Head Warmers to Knit) and I really enjoy her creativity.
In the Introduction, Vanessa recommends customizing your versions of the patterns to make “a unique portrait of your family pet.” The book then includes a photo gallery with full-page color portraits of each dog in a home environment. The next section is the patterns, which includes ten different breeds (Dachshund, Border Terrier, French Bulldog, Labrador, Chihuahua, Dalmatian, Spaniel, Yorkshire Terrier (shared as a pattern below this review), German Shepherd, and Poodle. Each pattern includes a short introduction, a list of materials, size of the finished project and tension (gauge). Method explains how the project is constructed and then the patterns are provided in sections using both UK pattern abbreviations and international stitch symbol charts. At the end of each pattern, the Making Up section explains how to join pieces and embellish the finished dog. All patterns are made in DK/#3/light weight yarns with a finished size from 5.25” to 10.625” (13.5 cm to 27 cm) tall. Within each pattern, you’ll find multiple images of the dog from different angles against a white background.
Fifteen pages of back sections following the patterns include Getting Started, Basic Stitches, Finishing Touches, Abbreviations and Conversions, and Supplies. These sections includes written information about crochet hooks, yarn needles, yarn substitution, reading crochet charts, stuffing and sewing pieces together,. There are written and illustrated instructions for getting gauge (tension), basic crochet stitches, increasing, decreasing, crocheting into the front or back loops, joining colors, joining pieces with back stitch or whip stitch, two embroidery stitches (straight stitch and satin stitch), tassels, and special instructions for the Spaniel’s muzzle markings. There is also a glossary of pattern abbreviations, conversions from UK to US terms and measurements for hooks, and contact information for suppliers of yarn, hooks, stuffing, and embroidery thread. The book closes with an index.
Although it’s a paperback book, there are front and back flaps to help you keep your place while stitching. The dog patterns are very cute and the photos are adorable and fun. While most patterns use basic stitches, they are quite detailed so I would recommend the book to advanced beginner crocheters rather than those just learning to stitch (unless those newbies LOVE dogs and have a good amount of patience). Most US readers would probably make the patterns with medium (worsted/#4/aran) yarn, and that would make the finished projects larger and more huggable. If you are a dog lover, or have dog lovers in your circle of “crochet-worthy” gift recipients, you will definitely enjoy Crocheted Dogs (available through independent booksellers or here on Amazon)!
this is awesomely cute, and I made one for a friends sister.