Meet the Briard

Briard

A very old working dog from France, the Briard dating back to the 8th century and has traditionally guarded the flocks against wolves. Following the French Revolution, they didn't need protection dogs as much and so their role changed to that of herder. The qualities of intelligence, loyalty which makes them outstanding family dogs. Their herding instinct can not be denied and they will herd anything, pets, small children and even their master who the Briard would butt his their massive head to push in the direction he wanted. The look of the breed is distinctive with their eyebrows and beard as well as the tail that has a distinctive hook. They are noted for having double dewclaws on the rear legs and their double coat does not let mud cling to it. Briards take very well to obedience training and thrive on encouragement rather than corrections. Verbal direction works very well and their versatility made them excel in hunting and tracking. During WWII they carried food, accompanied patrols and lead medics to the wounded on the battlefield. In the US, there is a debate over who introduced them whether it was Lafayette or Thomas Jefferson, but they were recognized by the AKC in 1922. The breed is described as "a heart wrapped in fur."

If you would like to knit the charted design of the Briard, simply go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdog

Though the origin of the breed is in question, it is known that many of the working Collies of Scotland came to the Shetland Isles to herd the sheep. The smaller version developed there in the rough climate that wasn't kind to man or beast. The breed was free to develop in relative isolation because of this and didn't come to notice until the twentieth century. They were officially recognized in England as a breed in 1909, though they were first listed as Shetland Collies. The name was changed in 1914 at the behest of Collie breeders. In the US, their recognition came in 1911 and the first Shetland Sheepdog specialty was in 1933. The accepted standard describing the breed states that it should resemble the Rough Collie only in miniature. Because of a nature that was eager to please, they have an ease in training that has brought them to the top in the Obedience ring. Their guarding instinct, honed by generations, makes them excellent watchdogs, protecting their family as naturally as they did their flocks from invaders of any kind. They are the perfect pet for an active family since they have a joy of running and jumping that works well in playing with children and a devoted, docile nature and high, almost human, intelligence and understanding.

If you would like to knit the charted pattern for the Shetland Sheepdog, go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Siberian Husky

Siberian Husky

The Siberian traces its origin to the Chukchi people of northeastern Asia. They were semi-nomadic people who needed a lightweight sled dog that could carry a light load over long distances. The Americans heard about these excellent sled dogs, when they first ran in the All Alaska Sweepstakes Race in 1909. However, these greatest fame for this breed came in 1925 when the people of Nome, Alaska were stricken by an epidemic of diphtheria and the medication could only get there with a relay of sled teams and this historic Serum Run was what brought the Siberian to the attention of fans across the country. In 1930 the AKC recognized the breed and during WWII, they served with excellence in the Army's Arctic Search and Rescue of the Air Transport Command. As a breed, the Siberian Husky is noted for a gentle temperament but an independent roaming nature which means that as pets they do best getting supervision when outdoors. They are very clean dogs that adapt themselves to almost any home.

If you would like to knit the Siberian Husky pattern, go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Scottish Terrier

Scottish Terrier

One of the earliest and if you ask Scottish Terrier owners, the earliest of all the Highland terriers. When the dogs began to show, there was a class for Scottish Terrier, but it was often filled with Skye Terriers, Dandie Dinmonts, or Yorkies. However eventually, at the encouragement of devotees, a standard was written and accepted in 1882 and the breed was established in England. Several years later, they traveled to the US and in 1887 they were recognized by the newly formed AKC. The Scottie was chosen Best In Show most recently at this year's Westminster Kennel Club. They exhibit classic terrier temperament. They are territorial, feisty and quick but also playful, intelligent and self-assured. Though they are best known for their black coats, they also come in brindle and wheaten. They have been extremely popular in the US and probably the most famous Scottie named Fala was owned by President Franklin Roosevelt and though more recently they have been in the White House with the first President Bush. These dogs make good pets and will remain very popular.

If you would like to knit the design of the Scottish Terrier, simply go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Samoyed

Samoyed

This is a very ancient breed that traces its ancestry back to early man. These first habitants of the Plateau of Iran moved their tribes in search of food traveling north through Mongolia to then west where a smaller lesser tribe, the Samoyed peoples, finally settled and made their home in the arctic region between the Yenisei River and the White Sea. The dogs became a vital part of the existence as reindeer herders, sledge dogs and household companions. Unique to this breed is that in spite of the passage of time, the Samoyed has bred true to the primitive dog without any mixing of wolf or fox. Living as constant companion to the people to the point of sleeping in their tents, they have bonded with them, protecting not only the reindeer but the people, yet never showing any sign of an aggressive nature. Revered by the early explorers, including Nansen in his early exploration of the North Pole, for their amiable disposition as well as their ability as sled dogs They were best known as being used by Amundsen with his discovery of the South Pole. In England, they gained notoriety early when Queen Alexandra became a fancier and descendants of these early English imports make up much of the background of the present day breed. They still show the same characteristics as their ancestors and gained fame in the western US when during the '50's when some were used for rescue to the point of being dropped from planes with sleds and driver to carry out survivors from a plane crash. With their profuse white double coat, that sheds daily, they are not for those who hate grooming. However, they are the delight of spinners who have discovered that the undercoat, which they so generously donate, spins beautifully, takes dye to achieve any color and knits up to make a fantastically warm, feather weight scarf or mittens. A loving gentle pet who loves its people.

If you would like to knit this design of the Samoyed simply go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm. If you would like to work any of the 25 charted designs in the Crafty Samoyed Knits book, go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_books.htm.

Meet the Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dog

For those of us in the United States, this breed is celebrated as First Dog, the puppy Bo who was the promised selection for the family of President Obama. These dogs were very common among the Portuguese fishermen who used them to herd the fish into the nets, to take messages from ship to ship and to retrieve anything that has fallen overboard. Their thick curling coat protected them from the frigid waters of the Atlantic. They show a calm intelligent demeanor and make an excellent pet, especially for those who need a dog with a non-allergic, non-shedding coat. At the same time he is excellent for rugged outdoor water work with its waterproof coat and webbed feet. There history is thought to trace back to the rugged Chinese/Russian steppe as herders of cattle, sheep, camels and horses perhaps dating back as far as 700B.C. Some say they were captured by the fierce Berbers and brought to North Africa and then went with them when they finally, during the 8th century, arrived in Portugal though others credit either the Goths or the Romans. None the less, the breed is a relatively new show dog in the US not being recognized to show till 1984. The breed has since become quite popular.


If you would like to knit the Portuguese Water Dog design, you can order the pattern by simply going to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm.

Meet the French Bulldog

French Bulldog

The bat-eared appearance of the French Bulldog and level skull between them which then forms a sort of domed head makes them distinctive in the dog world. Unlike the English Bulldog’s dour expression, the Frenchie has a much more alert appearance and it always ready for a good romp. Their happy disposition makes them very good pets. The breed has been recognized for a long time in the US with the first specialty taking place in the famous Waldorf Astoria hotel in NYC in 1898. Though their primary occupation is as pet or companion with a compact, heavily boned body and a short coat that requires little care; the breed is also an excellent watchdog. Their size and the fact that they are known for not barking a lot, makes them excellent for apartment living. Frenchies come in several colors including brindle, fawn, white, brindle and white and their skin should be loose enough to cause wrinkles around the shoulders.

If you'd like to knit this charted design, simply go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Brittany

Brittany

This pointing spaniel was the perfect size for the upland hunter. The Brittany, which formerly had the name Spaniel attached to its name, is suitable for quail, prairie grouse or partridge. He has legs that look long when seen with his cobby body and is born with either a short tail or it is docked. Historically it is said to have been brought by the ancient Celts to Brittany. However, the credit for creating the talented scenting dog we now know is given to French sportsman, Arthur Enaud. The Brittany does not have a bold temperament and responds best to encouragement in training rather than firm commands. He attaches himself firmly to his owner and with his size and cheerful disposition; he makes a wonderful house pet.

If you would like to knit the charted knitting design of the Brittany, you may order it by going to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Dalmatian

Dalmatian

Because it was the favorite dog of the Romany gypsies, the Dalmatian was found in many of the places they traditionally wandered. But, its first official home was Dalmatia, a province of Austria on the eastern coast of Venice. The Dalmatian is classified as a non-sporting dog even though it has been known that with the proper training, he makes an excellent gun dog. It has also served as a shepherd, a sentry and a guard dog. During World War II, the Dalmatian was invaluable doing war work . It eventually built a reputation as an outstanding companion dog that would loyally run beside his owner’s coach as he traveled. In the US, the Dal became the traditional mascot of firemen and is often found living in firehouses. The spotted dog is born pure white but the spots which can be either black or liver colored, develop soon. Nice spacing between the spots is desired. He is a medium sized dog that makes an excellent pet because of his happy personality. The Dal does best when he can get a lot of exercise.

If you would like to knit the charted design of the Dalmatian, you can get the pattern by going to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm.

Meet the Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer (or Zwergschnauzer) is identical with the Standard Schnauzer except for size and the fact that they have more variation in color. The Miniature came about by crossing the Schnauzer with Affenpinschers. They are well-proportioned, a compact dog which along with a cheerful disposition is the reason they are such popular as family pets. They are a very ancient breed even appearing in a painting by Albrecht Durer in 1492. The name Schnauzer refers to the beard on its muzzle. They have had a variety of duties from herding as drovers working sheep, cattle and hogs and doing all the jobs of an active farm dog to that of rat catchers, a job at which they excelled. But this smallest of the Schnauzers is wonderful at all aspects of its life role: working dog, show dog and household pet.

If you would like to knit this charted design, you may order the pattern by going to Kanine Knits Portraits of Dogs in Knitting.

Meet the Gordon Setter

Gordon Setter

Of the four setter breeds, the Gordon Setter is the most businesslike of the dogs as he does his work quartering the field and pointing woodcock, grouse or quail. Not as flashy as the others, he gets the job done. His black and tan marking that make him so showy in the breed ring do create a problem in the field because some say he blends in so well. He is noted for his excellent loyalty to his owner and a biddable personality that accounts for the ease with which he is trained. The breed is named for the Duke of Gordon from whose kennels the dog is said to have come to prominence in the late 1700’s. They were noted for their staying power in the field and referred to as “meat” dogs meaning that at the end of day of shooting, the hunter would return with a full bag. Their steady and eager-to-please personality makes them good pets, especially with children.


If you would like to knit this pattern, go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dog

Some 2000 years ago, Roman armies moved north into Helvetia, which is now called Switzerland, searching for conquest. Eventually they returned to Rome but they left behind their dogs. One of the types that developed from these surviving animals is the present day Bernese Mountain Dog. They were immediately taken on by the farmers who valued them as drovers for their ability to drive stock through the towns while keeping the animals calm. They are also renowned for their ability as draft dogs pulling carts loaded with milk each day into the towns. However, their calm ability to work around farm stock did not keep them from acting as reliable guard dogs for both the farmer’s family and his stock. Their distinctive black coats with the white and russet markings are handsome and his bond to his human companion makes him a loyal pet.

If you would like to order this charted knitting design go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

If you would like to order the knitting book The Crafty Bernese Mt Dog Knits that is all about the Berner and contains 25 charts as well as patterns for sweaters, hats, scarves, afghans and much, much more plus stories about the breed, go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_books.htm.

Meet the Flat-Coated Retriever

Flat-Coated Retriever

Known as the game-keeper’s dog for its extensive use on estates in England, the Flat-Coated Retriever has not reached the level of popularity in the U.S. as the Golden or Lab has. Developed from different strains of retrievers, they were first shown as early as 1860. They were valuable in hunting because of their quiet, business-like manner and ability to take directions readily. They specialize in retrieving upland game and fowl. They are a medium sized dog that shows power as well as raciness in movement and a calm demeanor that works in a family situation.

If you'd like to get the charted knitting design for the Flat-Coated Retriever, simply go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Boxer

Boxer

The Boxer has always been one of the more popular breeds in the U.S. as well as in his native country of Germany and throughout Europe. The breed is noted for their sturdy beauty, good nature, as well as being sensible and dependable. It has excelled as a guard dog, war dog and even guide dog for the blind. The ancestry of the Boxer is contested but the breed came into its own in the late 19^th century and was first shown in 1895. Though it took a while to settle on the standard for the breed, they more than proved their worth during WWI serving as messenger, pack and other service dogs by the Germans for the Red Cross. The breed should show a nobility of spirit in their attitude and though friendly do not solicit attention. In the U.S. the ears are made surgically erect while in England and Europe, the natural ear is prominent.

If you would like to get a copy of this charted knitting pattern, go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu

This breed was on of the exotic gift dogs of the Dalai Lamas of Tibet. They were given to the Emperors of China who, as far back at the 16^th century, cross them with the more hardy Pekingese. The Shih Tzu was one of the three Lion Dog breeds. It was until the 1930’s that the breed attracted western attention in England and Europe and by 1957 its club was formed and the AKC finally recognized it in 1969. Weighing less than 16 lbs. the approximately 11 inch dog is longer than tall with an upcurled plumed tail, a broad head with a square muzzle and round eyes. Hair is very much a part of the dog from the top of its head to its long fringed ears to the silky coat that flows over its back covering its short heavy-boned legs. Though the coat may come in any color or combination, it moves freely as the dog displays its lively and arrogant carriage.

If you'd like to order this charted knitting pattern, go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Beagle

Beagle

Considered one of the most popular of the hound breeds, the Beagle is primarily a gun-dog specializing in upland game such as rabbits but has a merry affectionate disposition that qualifies him as a favorite of children and a popular house dog. Though its origins aren’t completely known, it gained popularity during the reign of King Henry VIII and was a great favor with his daughter Elizabeth. It gained recognition in the U.S. in the late 19^th century with the formation of the American-English Beagle Club. Beagles come in two sizes 15” and under and 13” and under. They are called the music-makers of the meadow because of their rippling cry. They respond best to kindness in training and bond quickly with those who train them. Obedience training is suggested when they are house pets.

If you wish to order this charted knitting pattern, go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhound

Often referred to as the “Irish dogs,” “the big dogs of Ireland,” “the great hounds of Ireland,” the Irish Wolfhound were used in wolf and elk hunting as well as serving as their master’s guards in battle. The largest and tallest of all the gazehounds, was first mentioned in A.D. 391 when Quintus Aurelius Symmachus, the Roman Counsul, wrote to his brother, Flavianus, thanking him for sending him seven Irish Wolfhounds. Four hundred years later, they were used by the Celts when they invaded Greece. However, they are most often seen in the art work of the Middle Ages. The modern Wolfhound has an expression of quiet authority which gives him a look of invincibility but his attitude toward people is very kind.

If you'd like to order the charted knitting pattern of the Irish Wolfhound, go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm

Meet the Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever’s popularity stems from the fact that he is not only biddable, intelligent and intelligent but also beautiful and an excellent companion. His background was as a hunting retriever working both the marsh and upland areas. He was introduced to the U.S. relatively recently as many breeds go and wasn’t recognized by the AKC till 1932. The development of the breed is credited to Lord Tweedmouth from various retrievers, spaniels and setters. This shows itself in its rich soft coat, its strong muscular body and its sweet temperaments. It ranks second only to Labradors in field trials and practical hunting. His ability to be trained with ease has made him not only an excellent choice in working as a guide for the blind but perfect as a family dog and companion to children.

If you'd like to order the charted knitting pattern go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm.

If you'd like to order the book which contains 25 charted designs of the Golden Retriever in action as well a stories about the breed and patterns for sweaters, hats, mittens, scarves, afghans, etc., go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_Crafty_Golden_Retriever_Book.htm.

Meet the Boston Terrier

Boston Terrier

Originally a "pit terrier" used for fighting, the Boston Terrier is one of the very few breeds that was actually developed in the United States. Despite its more contentious origins, this handsome little dog that sports his own tuxedo, quickly found favor with Americans as a popular pet. In 1891 when the breed was looking for recognition it was noted writer James Watson who pointed out that since they were bred only in the vicinity of Boston, that it would be an appropriate name for them. The Boston is considered one of the most popular breeds in the U.S. This square headed dog is both dapper and boisterous with the makings of a good-natured house dog.

To order the knitting pattern for the Boston Terrier just click the name above.

The Dog A Day Knitting Adventure

How To Keep Your Dog In Stitches
(knitting that is)

My name is Peggy Gaffney and I have been creating portraits of dogs in knitting since 1995. These designs are based on my lifetime as a knitter and my more than forty years showing dogs. When I decided to bring these two elements together, I created KANINE KNITS which is my publishing company. I publish not only knitting patterns for almost all the breeds, with new designs being added constantly, but also a series of unique knitting books called The Crafty Dog Knits series. In these books I take a single breed and create many charted designs of this breed in action. Along with stories about the breed and 25 patterns into which these designs may be worked, these books provide the fancier a variety of possible projects.

This blog has been created to introduce you to these patterns, one at a time.