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World Lion Day

lion dog toy

The lion is one of the most recognizable and most loved animals in the world. From the artwork of ancient Egypt to coats of arms of European countries to present day movies, the lion has represented royalty, strength, and even the supernatural. Hollywood often depicts lions as man eaters. Although not common, there have been documented cases of lions hunting man.

For crafters, the lion is a common theme and so much fun to make. I recently made a Lion Toy for my pug Bruno. He loves to play tug of war, so I added a handle to the bottom of a lion to make his favorite game easier on me.

Please be aware that all dogs are different; some will eat a toy within a day. Bruno will chew on a toy for about 3-4 months before it’s ready for the trash. Regardless of how long it takes them to finish the toy, cotton yarn and cotton stuffing are best because they can be digested by the dog.

Materials:
Cotton worsted weight yarn:
40 yards yellow
25 yards variegated
5 yards brown
1 yard black
Size G (4.0 mm) crochet hook
Yarn needle
Cotton stuffing
Squeaker insert

Finished toy measures approximately 6” tall.

Gauge: 5 rows = 1”, 5 sc = 1”

HEAD:
Rnd 1: With yellow yarn, ch 2 (or magic ring), 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook. Do not join. Work in continuous rnds throughout.
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around (12 sc).
Rnd 3: *Sc in next st, 2 sc in next st,* repeat around (18 sc).
Rnds 4-5: Sc in each st.
Rnd 6: *Sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st,* repeat around (24 sc).
Rnd 7: *Sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st,* repeat around (30 sc).
Rnd 8: *Sc in next 4 sts, 2 sc in next st,* repeat around (36 sc).
Rnd 9: *Sc in next 5 sts, 2 sc in next st,* repeat around (42 sc).
Rnds 10-11: Sc in each st.
Rnd 12: Working in BLO, sc in each st.
Rnds 13-14: Working in both lps, sc in each st.
Before starting dec rnds, use black yarn to embroider eyes, nose and mouth (see photo for placement).
Rnd 15: *Dec, sc in next 5 sts,* repeat 5 times (36 sc).
Rnd 16: *Dec, sc in next 4 sts,* repeat 5 times (30 sc).
Rnd 17: *Dec, sc in next 3 sts,* repeat 5 times (24 sc).
Stuff face, add squeaker, add more stuffing.
Rnd 18: *Dec 3 times, *sc in next 4 sts, dec,* 3 times (18 sc).
Rnd 19: *Dec, sc,* repeat 5 times (12 sc). Finish stuffing.
Rnd 20: Dec 6 times (6 sc). Join with sl st. Fasten off and close Rnd 20.

MANE:
Mark center top of head at Rnd 12. Count back 16 sts before marker. Attach brown yarn with sl st. *Sk 1 st, 5 dc in next st, sk 1 st, sl st in next st,* repeat 7 times. Fasten off brown.

HANDLE:
Rnd 1: With variegated yarn, ch 2 (or magic ring), 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook. Do not join. Work in continuous rnds throughout.
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around (12 sc).
Repeat Rnd 2 until piece measures approximately 7”. Stuff handle but not too firmly. Leave it loose enough so that the handle will bend.
Last rnd: Dec 6 times. Fasten off yarn and close last rnd.
Sew each end of handle to bottom of lion. Make as many sts as needed to firmly connect the handle to the head.

PDF Download is available at: Lion Dog Toy Crochet Pattern

More Lion Designs

lion crochet pattern

 

Zoo Blog Hop Day 10 – Lions

More Crochet Patterns for Pets

Bruno Sweater Small
Bruno Sweater
puppy love
Puppy Love Dog Toy
pumpkin spice dog toy
Pumpkin Spice Dog Toy

ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

armadillo

 

Armadillo Tissue Box Cover

 

 

pug ornament

 

Pug Christmas Tree Ornament

 

 

Christmas gift tag

 

Christmas Gift Tag – From My Hooks & Needles

 

 

ice pop holder

 

 

Raccoon and Red Panda Ice Pop Holder Crochet Pattern

 

 

 

 

 

Triceratops Baby Rainbow

 

 

 

 

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Zoo Blog Hop Day 25 – Dogs

🐶 Pawsitively Adorable: Crochet Dog Patterns for Every Pup Lover

If you’re a dog lover and a yarn lover, you’re in the right place! Crochet dog patterns combine the best of both worlds—loyal, lovable pups and the joy of handmade crafting. Whether you’re stitching a gift for a fellow dog fan, creating a cuddly companion, or just looking for your next cute project, these dog-themed crochet patterns will have your tail wagging!

Why Crochet a Dog?

Dogs are more than pets—they’re family. A crocheted pup makes a thoughtful gift, a sweet baby toy, or a perfect shelf buddy. Plus, they never bark, chew shoes, or shed on the couch!

Crochet dog patterns are ideal for:

  • Pet lovers and rescue supporters

  • Baby gifts and nursery decor

  • Breed-specific tributes or memorial keepsakes

  • Keychains, bag charms, and mini collectibles

🎨 Customize Your Pup

One of the best parts of crocheting a dog is making it your own:

  • Match real-life pet colors (or go rainbow for fun!)

  • Add bows, bandanas, collars, or name tags

  • Use safety eyes for realism or embroider expressions for a softer look

Whether you’re a beginner just learning the ropes or an advanced hooker looking for a challenge, there’s a pup pattern out there waiting for you.

🐾 Final Thoughts: Stitch a Furry Friend

Crocheting a dog is more than a fun project—it’s a way to capture the joy, loyalty, and love dogs bring into our lives. So grab your hook, pick your yarn, and start stitching your next best (yarn) friend!

Don’t forget to tag your projects with #CrochetDogLove so we can see your creations!

Dog Crochet Patterns 

dingo crochet pattern
Darcy the Dingo, Ruth Haydock Designs
puppy lovey crochet
Puppy Lovey, Loops and Love Crochet
dog crochet pattern
D is for Dog, The Burgundy Basket
Poodle Eyeglass Holder, My Fingers Fly

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Xolo, the Mexican Hairless Dog Plush Toy Crochet Pattern
Xolo the Mexican Hairless Dog, My Fingers Fly

Dash the Crochet Dog, Chai Coffee Crochet

 

 

 

 

pug ornament
Pug Ornament, My Fingers Fly

Mini Amigurumi Pug, Mohu 

husky amigurumi
Husky Amigurumi, Willow Crochet

 

 

 

Crochet Patterns for your Dog

Pug Puppy Sweater
Pug Puppy Sweater Crochet Pattern
puppy love
Puppy Love Dog Toy
lion dog toy
Lion Dog Toy
Cinco de Mayo Pet Bandana

happy howlidays gift tags
Happy Howlidays Gift Tags – free download

 

Prior Zoo Animal Posts

Fish crochet patterns

World Reef Awareness Day

owl crochet patterns

Owl Crochet Patterns

bat crochet patterns

Bat Crochet Patterns

cat crochet patterns

8 Cat Crochet Patterns Plus 2 Addi Patterns

bear crochet patterns

4 Bear Crochet Patterns

butterfly crochet

3 Butterfly Patterns

axolotl crochet

2 Axolotl Patterns

marine life crochet

World Oceans Day – 4 Whales and 4 Turtles

Koalas

lion crochet pattern

Zoo Blog Hop Day 10 – Lions

penguin crochet patterns

Zoo Blog Hop Day 11 – 4 Cuddly Penguins

 

Zoo Blog Hop Day 12 – Jack the Sloth

 

 

unicorn crochet pattern

Zoo Blog Hop Day 13 – Mystical, Magical Unicorns!

alligator crochet patterns

Zoo Blog Hop Day 14 – Alligators!

rabbit crochet patterns

Zoo Blog Hop Day 15 – Bunnies!

deer crochet pattern

Zoo Blog Hop Day 16 – Deer and Moose

seahorse crochet pattern

Zoo Blog Hop Day 17 – Seahorse

beaver crochet patterns

Zoo Blog Hop Day 18 – Beaver

monkey crochet pattern

Zoo Blog Hop Day 19 – Monkeys

 

 

 

eagle crochet patterns

 

Zoo Blog Hop Day 20 – Eagles

 

 

giraffe crochet patterns

 

Zoo Blog Hop Day 21 – Giraffes

 

 

sheep crochet patterns

 

Zoo Blog Hop Day 23 – Sheep

 

 

Elephant Crochet Patterns

 

cow amigurumi

 

Zoo Blog Hop Day 26 – Cows

 

 

platypus crochet pattern

Zoo Blog Hop Day 27 – Platypus

mouse crochet pattern

 

Zoo Blog Hop Day 28 – Mouse

 

 

fox crochet patterns

 

Zoo Blog Hop Day 29 – Fox

 

 

Final Day of Zoo Blog Hop – Birds

 

 

 

NATIONAL LEON DAY

National Leon Day marks June 25 as six months away from Christmas day. Leon, spelled backward is Noel, marking the day crafters begin planning their homemade gifts and decorations for the holiday season. It can also be a day for those who miss the winter holidays to have a mini-winter celebration in June. Here are some ideas to get your started along with a printable list to keep track of your Christmas crafting.

Christmas Patterns
Free Christmas Crochet Patterns
Christmas Crochet List

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Roller Skate Pillow Crochet Pattern

Roller skating was big in the 70s, and it seems to be making a comeback. My husband was a jam skater in his youth, and our children were true rink rats. If the rink was open, they were there! We even tried buying a skating business at the time, the but owner just couldn’t part with her rink. October is National Skating Month, so I made this cute pillow shaped like a roller skate. It uses blanket yarn, so it’s quick and super squishy. Crochet a few different colors for your tween’s bedroom, or add a couple to your game room decor. Show me your color combinations on Instagram.

Roller Skate Pillow with Blanket Yarn

Materials:

Bernat Blanket or other super bulky (6) yarn

8 oz. red

1 oz. gray

1 oz. black

1 oz. white

Size M (13.00 mm) crochet hook

Yarn needle

Fiberfil

 

Finished pillow measures approximately 16” wide by 17” tall (including wheels).

DIRECTIONS:

BOOT:

Row 1: Beginning at heel with gray yarn, ch 4, sc in 2nd ch from hook and in next 2 ch (3 sc).

Row 2: Ch 1, turn, inc in first st, sc in next st, inc in last st (5 sc).

Rows 3-14: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st.

Row 15: Ch 1, turn, inc in first st, sc in next 3 sts, inc in last st (7 sc).

Rows 16-28: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st.

Row 29: Ch 1, turn, dec over first 2 sts, sc in next 3 sts, dec over last 2 sts (5 sc).

Row 30: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st.

Row 31: Ch 1, turn, dec over first 2 sts, sc in next st, dec over last 2 sts (3 sc).

Rnd 32: Ch 1, turn, 2 sc in first st, sc in next st, 2 sc in last st. Working down side, 1 sc in each of the 31 row ends. Working across remaining lps of starting ch, 2 sc in first ch, sc in next ch, 2 sc in last ch. Work down opposite side with 1 sc in each of the 31 row ends (72 sc). Join with sl st in first sc. Fasten off gray.

Rnd 33: Join red yarn at center st of heel end. Ch 1, sc in BLO of each st around. Join with sl st.

Rnds 34-37: Ch 1, sc in each st. Join with sl st in first sc of rnd.

Rnd 38: Ch 1, sc in next 36 sts, work 3 sc tog, sc in next 33 sts (70 sc).

Rnd 39: Ch 1, sc in next 35 sts, work 3 sc tog, sc in next 30 sts, work 2 sc tog (67 sc).

Rnd 40:  Ch 1, sc in next 33 sts, work 5 sc tog, sc in next 27 sts, work 2 sc tog (62 sc).

Rnd 41:  Ch 1, sc in next 31 sts, work 5 sc tog, sc in next 26 sts (58 sc).

Rnd 42:  Ch 1, sc in next 29 sts, work 5 sc tog, sc in next 24 sts (54 sc).

Rnd 43:  Ch 1, sc in next 27 sts, work 5 sc tog, sc in next 22 sts (52 sc).

Rnd 44:  Ch 1, sc in next 25 sts, work 5 sc tog, sc in next 20 sts (46 sc).

Rnd 45:  Ch 1, sc in next 23 sts, work 5 sc tog, sc in next 18 sts (42 sc).

Rnds 46-59: Ch 1, sc in each st. Join with sl st in first sc of rnd. Stuff boot.

Rnd 60: Ch 1, working in BLO, *dec, sc in next 5 sts,* repeat around (36 sc). Do not join for the remaining rnds.

Rnd 61: Working through both loops, *dec, sc in next 4 sts,* repeat around (30 sc).

Rnd 62: *Dec, sc in next 3 sts,* repeat around (24 sc). Stuff.

Rnd 63: *Dec, sc in next 2 sts,* repeat around (18 sc).

Rnd 64: *Dec, sc in next st,* repeat around (12 sc).

Rnd 65: Dec around (6 sc). Close with ultimate finish.

BACK WHEELS:

Rnd 1: With white yarn, ch 2 (or magic circle), 6 sc in 2nd ch. Do not join.

Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st (12 sc). Join with sl st in first sc of rnd. Fasten off white.

Rnd 3: With black yarn, *sc in next st, 2 sc in next st,* repeat around (18 sc). Do not join.

Rnd 4: Working in BLO, sc in each st. Do not join.

Rnds 5-6: Sc in each st. Join with sl st at end of Rnd 6. Fasten off black leaving 12” length for sewing.

Repeat Rnds 1-6 for second half of wheel. Stuff each section and sew tog end to end. Sew to bottom of skate approximately 2” from heel.

FRONT WHEELS:

Rnd 1: With white yarn, ch 2 (or magic circle), 6 sc in 2nd ch. Do not join.

Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st (12 sc). Join with sl st in first sc of rnd. Fasten off white.

Rnd 3: With black yarn, *sc in next st, 2 sc in next st,* repeat around (18 sc). Do not join.

Rnd 4: Working in BLO, sc in each st. Do not join.

Rnds 5-7: Sc in each st. Join with sl st at end of Rnd 6. Fasten off black leaving 12” length for sewing.

Repeat Rnds 1-7 for second half of wheel. Stuff each section and sew tog end to end. Sew to bottom of skate approximately 3” from toe.

TOE STOP:

Rnd 1: With black yarn, ch 2 (or magic circle), 6 sc in 2nd ch. Do not join.

Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st (12 sc). Do not join.

Rnd 3: Working in BLO, sc in each st. Do not join.

Rnd 4: *Sc in next 2 sts, dec,* repeat twice (9 sc). Do not join.

Rnd 5: *Sc in next st, dec,* repeat twice (6 sc). Join with sl st. Fasten off black leaving 12” length for sewing.

TOPSTITCHING:

Heel: Mark center bottom of heel. Mark 10 sts on each side of center mark. With black yarn, straight st a curve from marker to Rnd 41 on each side.

Tongue: Mark a 3” wide section from approximately Rnd 42 to Rnd 60. Straight st the tongue outline using black yarn.

Cut a piece of white yarn approximately 3 yards long. Starting at bottom of tongue section, lace yarn in cross-cross fashion like shoelaces with the lace inserting every other row going up to Rnd 59. Tie in a bow. Cut excess yarn.

 

 

For a downloadable PDF of this pattern, please visit My Fingers Fly on Etsy.

YouTube

UPDATE: A fellow crocheter on Instagram challenged me to turn this pattern into a Christmas tree ornament.

https://www.etsy.com/MyFingersFly/listing/877943632/roller-skate-ornament-crochet-pattern?utm_source=Copy&utm_medium=ListingManager&utm_campaign=Share&utm_term=so.lmsm&share_time=1603476124572

Another suggestion from a fellow crocheter – Roller Skate Christmas Stocking

More Pillow Patterns

Do Unicorns Live Forever

 

Paperbacks are now available in my Etsy shop, as well as children’s graphic t-shirts with Lily & Boonicorn. Makes a great gift for any little girl on your Christmas list!

Eyeglass Holder Crochet Patterns Ebook

https://www.etsy.com/MyFingersFly/listing/575328461/eyeglass-holder-crochet-pattern-ebook-15?utm_source=Copy&utm_medium=ListingManager&utm_campaign=Share&utm_term=so.lmsm&share_time=1603134749437

New patterns have been added, so the book now contains 17 adorable eyeglass holders – tiger, heart, Christmas gnome, elephants (bull, girl, and baby), pig, Frankenstein’s monster, owl, clown, panda bear, poodle, lamb, little red bull, octopus, koala, Santa Claus, reindeer, and the debate fly. These designs are quick and easy and make great gifts for anyone on your list who always loses their glasses. If there’s an animal or character you would like to see, please feel free to reach out. (No trademarked characters please) Owl Eyeglass Holder and Lamb Eyeglass Holder are available on the blog.

Happy crocheting!