Dog Christmas Hat Pattern (Holiday Elf Hat For Dogs)

This blog post shows a dog Christmas hat pattern (holiday elf hat for dogs).

This Christmas hat is a really easy knit, with a variety of sizes to choose from.

This holiday hat pattern will look great with any Christmas costumes and could be knit in white and red to make a Santa Claus hat.

Scroll down to view the free pattern, or grab the printable PDF pattern in my shop here.

Dog Christmas Hat Pattern

Purchase the inexpensive, ad-free, PDF printable pattern in my shop here.

Notes

Skill Level – Easy (Easy pattern for advanced beginners)

Knitting an elf hat or Christmas Santa hat is a fun and festive project you can customize with your favorite colors and details for the holiday season.

This is an advanced beginner knitting pattern, and the techniques involved are casting on, knitting, and purl stitches, knitting in the round, K2tog, and changing colors.

This classic holiday hat can be knit in five sizes: extra small, small, dogs medium, large, and extra large.

Any dog lover would love to wear a matching hat; make one for all of the family here – Knitted Elf Hat Pattern

Copyright Info

• Please do not copy, sell, redistribute, or republish this festive hat pattern. 
• If you wish to share this pattern, link to the pattern page only.
• You may sell the finished product using this pattern, giving pattern credit to Handy Little Me/Louise Bollanos.
• Do NOT use the copyrighted photos for your own listings or any online listings.
• For the copyright T&C, please read my Terms of Use.

Size Information/Neck Circumference

Gauge – 14 sts/22 rows in 4×4 inches/10×10 cm in stocking stitch.

For a near-perfect fit, measure your dog’s neck circumference before choosing a size.

• XS – Extra Small – 13-15″
• S – Small – 15-18″
• M – Medium – 19-21″
• L – Large – 22-24″
• XL – Extra Large – 24-26″

The Supplies You Need

Yarn

• You will need three colors of yarn (1 ball of each color or see the estimated yards below for each size);
• Yarn A – Green
• Yarn B – White
• Yarn C – Red
• The yarn weight is bulky/chunky/12 ply.
• Estimated yards needed for each size…
• Extra Small – 48 yds
• Small- 58 yds
• Medium – 70 yds
• Large – 92 yds
• Extra Large – 106 yds

Needles

• Set of 6 mm (US 10) 40 cm/16″ circular knitting needles.

Notions

• Tape measure
• Darning needle/Yarn needle
• Scissors
• Stitch marker

Other Tools

• Pom-pom maker 

Abbreviations / Knitting Abbreviations And Terms (US And UK) List

• CO – Cast on
• Cont – Continue(ing)
• K – Knit
• K2tog – Knit the next 2 stitches together
• P – Purl
• Rem – Remaining
• Rep – Repeat
• RS – Right side
• St(s) – Stitch(es)
• WS – Wrong side
• 1×1 Ribbing – K1, P1 – repeat to the end of the row.

Dog Elf Hat Pattern

Pattern Notes

• The neck cowl is knit in the round on circular needles.
• However, you could knit this flat and then seam to make it join in the round.
• The elf hat is knit flat because it has to be joined/seamed to the neck cowl, leaving an opening for the dog’s head to fit through.
• There is a video on my YouTube channel to help you to join the cowl and hat together.

XS – Extra Small (Neck = 13-15″)

Neck Cowl Pattern

With Yarn A – Cast on 32 sts, join in the round, and work in 1×1 ribbing for 4 inches.

Cast off and weave in all loose ends.

Hat Pattern

Cast on 32 sts with Yarn A.

Row 1 – *K1, P1*, rep from *to* to the end of the row.

Continue to work in 1×1 ribbing, repeating row 1 until the piece measures 4 inches.

• Change to Yarn B and Knit 6 rows.
• Change to Yarn C and Knit 6 rows.

Repeat working in Yarn B for 6 rows and then Yarn C for 6 rows until the piece measures 8 inches from the cast-on edge.

Decrease

Keeping the color change sequence, work as follows…

• *K2tog, K2* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K1* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• If the last color is not Yarn B (white), change to Yarn B and Knit 6 rows.
• Cut yarn, thread a tapestry needle, and weave the end through the remaining stitches.
• Watch how to make up the hat and neck cowl on my YouTube channel here.
• Make a pompom in Yarn A.
• Attach it to the endpoint of the hat (stitch it into place securely) and weave any loose ends.

Small Dog Hat (Neck = 15-18″)

Neck Cowl Pattern

With Yarn A – Cast on 40 sts, join in the round, and work in 1×1 ribbing for 4 inches.

Cast off and weave in all loose ends.

Hat Pattern

Cast on 40 sts with Yarn A.

Row 1 – *K1, P1*, rep from *to* to the end of the row.

Continue to work in 1×1 ribbing, repeating round 1 until the piece measures 4 inches.

• Change to Yarn B and Knit 6 rows.
• Change to Yarn C and Knit 6 rows.

Repeat working in Yarn B for 6 rows and then Yarn C for 6 rows until the piece measures 9 inches from the cast-on edge.

Decrease

Keeping the color change sequence, work as follows…

• *K2tog, K3* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K2* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K1* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• If the last color is not Yarn B (white), change to Yarn B and Knit 6 rows.
• Cut yarn, thread a tapestry needle, and weave the end through the remaining stitches.
• Watch how to make up the hat and neck cowl on my YouTube channel here.
• Make a pompom in Yarn A.
• Attach it to the endpoint of the hat (stitch it into place securely) and weave any loose ends.

Medium (Neck = 19-21″)

Neck Cowl Pattern

With Yarn A – Cast on 56 sts, join in the round, and work in 1×1 ribbing for 6 inches.

Cast off and weave in all loose ends.

Hat Pattern

Cast on 56 sts with Yarn A.

Row 1 – *K1, P1*, rep from *to* to the end of the row.

Continue to work in 1×1 ribbing, repeating row 1 until the piece measures 6 inches.

• Change to Yarn B and Knit 6 rows.
• Change to Yarn C and Knit 6 rows.

Repeat working in Yarn B for 6 rows and then Yarn C for 6 rows until the piece measures 11 inches from the cast-on edge.

Decrease

Keeping the color change sequence, work as follows…

• *K2tog, K5* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K4* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K3* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K2* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K1* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• If the last color is not Yarn B (white), change to Yarn B and Knit 6 rows.
• Cut yarn, thread a tapestry needle, and weave the end through the remaining stitches.
• Watch how to make up the hat and neck cowl on my YouTube channel here.
• Make a pompom in Yarn A. Attach it to the endpoint of the hat (stitch it into place securely) and weave any loose ends.

Large (Neck = 22-24″)

Neck Cowl Pattern

With Yarn A – Cast on 72 sts, join in the round, and work in 1×1 ribbing for 6 inches.

Cast off and weave in all loose ends.

Hat Pattern

Cast on 72 sts with Yarn A.

Row 1 – *K1, P1*, rep from *to* to the end of the row.

Continue to work in 1×1 ribbing, repeating row 1 until the piece measures 6 inches.

• Change to Yarn B and Knit 6 rows.
• Change to Yarn C and Knit 6 rows.

Repeat working in Yarn B for 6 rows and then Yarn C for 6 rows until the piece measures 13 inches from the cast-on edge.

Decrease

Keeping the color change sequence, work as follows…

• *K2tog, K7* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K6* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K5* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K4* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K3* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K2* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K1* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• If the last color is not Yarn B (white), change to Yarn B and Knit 6 rows.
• Cut yarn, thread a tapestry needle, and weave the end through the remaining stitches.
• Watch how to make up the hat and neck cowl on my YouTube channel here.
• Make a pompom in Yarn A.
• Attach it to the endpoint of the hat (stitch it into place securely) and weave any loose ends.

Extra Large (Neck = 24-26″)

Neck Cowl Pattern

With Yarn A – Cast on 80 sts, join in the round, and work in 1×1 ribbing for 6 inches.

Cast off and weave in all loose ends.

Hat Pattern

Cast on 80 sts with Yarn A.

Row 1 – *K1, P1*, rep from *to* to the end of the row.

Continue to work in 1×1 ribbing, repeating row 1 until the piece measures 6 inches.

• Change to Yarn B and Knit 6 rows.
• Change to Yarn C and Knit 6 rows.

Repeat working in Yarn B for 6 rows and then Yarn C for 6 rows until the piece measures 14 inches from the cast-on edge.

Decrease

Keeping the color change sequence, work as follows…

• *K2tog, K8* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K7* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K6* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K5* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K4* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K3* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K2* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• *K2tog, K1* repeat from * to* to the end of the row.
• Knit 5 rows.
• If the last color is not Yarn B (white), change to Yarn B and Knit 6 rows.
• Cut yarn, thread a tapestry needle, and weave the end through the remaining stitches.
• Watch how to make up the hat and neck cowl on my YouTube channel here.
• Make a pompom in Yarn A.
• Attach it to the endpoint of the hat (stitch it into place securely) and weave any loose ends.

Making Up

View the video tutorial on my YouTube channel to see how to make up the hat and neckcowl.

Is It OK For Dogs To Wear Hats?

While some dogs may tolerate wearing hats or other accessories, it’s important to consider your individual dog’s comfort and well-being.

Here are a few factors to keep in mind for your pet:

1. Comfort:
   • Dogs have different levels of tolerance for clothing and accessories. Some may not mind wearing hats or pet costumes, while others may find them uncomfortable or stressful. Pay attention to your dog’s body language and behavior to gauge their comfort level.
2. Fit:
   • Ensure that the hat fits your dog properly. It should be snug but not too tight, allowing for proper ventilation and movement. Avoid any accessories that may obstruct your dog’s vision, ears, or breathing.
3. Supervision:
   • If you decide to put a hat on your dog, do so under close supervision. Watch for any signs of discomfort, distress, or attempts to remove the hat. If your dog shows signs of stress, it’s best to remove the hat immediately.
4. Weather Considerations:
   • Take into account the weather conditions. In cold weather, a hat might provide additional warmth, but in hot weather, it could contribute to overheating. Ensure that your dog doesn’t overheat while wearing any accessories.
5. Training:
   • If you want your dog to wear hats or other accessories, it’s helpful to introduce them gradually and use positive reinforcement. Associate the hat with positive experiences, treats, and praise to create a positive association.
6. Breeds and Individual Preferences:
   • Some breeds may be more accepting of wearing hats or clothing, while others may be less inclined. Additionally, individual preferences vary, so it’s essential to consider your dog’s personality and comfort level.

In summary, while it’s generally okay for dogs to wear hats, it’s crucial to prioritize your dog’s well-being and comfort.

Always monitor your dog’s behavior, remove the hat if there are signs of distress, and use accessories in moderation.

If your dog consistently shows discomfort or stress when wearing hats, it might be best to skip this accessory and explore other ways to express your pup’s style.

How Do I Get My Dog To Wear A Santa Hat? Or An Elf Hat?

Getting your dog to wear a red Santa hat can be a fun and festive way to celebrate the holidays, but it requires patience, positive reinforcement, and a gradual introduction.

Here are some steps you can follow to help your dog feel comfortable wearing a Santa hat (Christmas outfits or costume):

1. Introduce the Hat Gradually:
   • Start by letting your dog sniff and investigate the dog Santa hat without putting it on. Allow them to become familiar with the hat in a non-threatening way.
2. Positive Association:
   • Associate the hat with positive experiences. Use treats, praise, and playtime whenever your dog shows interest in or interacts with the hat. This helps create a positive association.
3. Short Sessions:
   • Begin with short sessions of having the hat near your dog. Gradually increase the time the hat is present, allowing your dog to acclimate to its presence.
4. Touch Desensitization:
   • Gently touch your dog with the hat, starting with brief touches and gradually increasing the duration. Use treats and praise to reward calm behavior.
5. Place the Hat on the Head:
   • Once your dog is comfortable with the hat being near them, gently place it on their head for a brief moment. Reward with treats and praise. If your dog tries to remove the hat, don’t force it; instead, encourage calm behavior.
6. Increase Duration:
   • Gradually increase the amount of time your dog wears the hat. Always monitor their behavior and remove the hat if they seem uncomfortable or stressed.
7. Positive Reinforcement:
   • Use treats and praise generously when your dog wears the hat. Make it a positive and rewarding experience for them.
8. Associate with Fun Activities:
   • Put the hat on your dog before engaging in enjoyable activities, such as playtime or a short walk. This helps your dog associate the hat with positive experiences.
9. Practice and Patience:
   • Practice regularly, but be patient. Every dog is different, and some may take longer to adjust than others. If your dog consistently shows distress, it’s essential to respect their comfort level and not force the hat on them.

Remember that not all four-legged friends will be comfortable wearing hats, and it’s essential to prioritize your dog’s well-being.

If your dog simply doesn’t enjoy wearing the Santa hat or other pet hats, consider alternative ways to include them in festive activities, such as using holiday-themed bandanas or taking adorable holiday photos without accessories.

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Christmas Crafts 

• How To Make A Christmas Wreath (Easy Homemade DIY)
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Share your work with us…

I love seeing your finished projects on social media.

If you enjoyed making the elf hat knitting pattern, I’d love to see yours on Instagram, be sure to tag me @handylittleme.

If you are on Facebook, stop over to the Handylittleme Facebook group and share a photo.

I’d love to see your work.

Happy Knitting!