Welcome to the vibrant world of needlework, where every stitch brings your favorite furry friends to life! If you're searching for the perfect project to honor a beloved pet or simply celebrate your love for man's best friend, you've come to the right place. Counted cross stitch patterns of dogs offer a beautiful and rewarding way to create lasting keepsakes, from photorealistic portraits to charming, whimsical designs that capture the spirit of different breeds.
This comprehensive guide is designed to help you navigate the best online destinations for your next project. We've curated a list of top-tier platforms and designers, each offering a unique selection of canine-themed patterns. Whether you are a beginner looking for an all-in-one kit with pre-sorted floss or an experienced stitcher seeking a complex, artistic challenge, this roundup will streamline your search.
We will explore seven of the best sources for high-quality dog patterns, detailing their specific strengths and what makes them stand out. From massive marketplaces like Etsy to specialized retailers like Heaven and Earth Designs, you'll find direct links and essential information to help you select the ideal pattern. Let's dive in and find the perfect canine companion for your needle and thread.
1. Cross Stitch | Husky – Photo Of Adult Short-Coated White Dog
For stitchers aiming to create a truly breathtaking and lifelike canine portrait, the Photo Of Adult Short-Coated White Dog kit from Cross-Stitched.com stands out as a premier choice. This platform specializes in transforming detailed photographs into high-quality, all-inclusive counted cross stitch patterns of dogs, and this Husky design is a perfect example of their expertise. It delivers a gallery-worthy piece that captures the soulful expression and intricate fur texture of the breed with remarkable precision.
Unlike simpler, more stylized patterns, this kit is engineered for photorealism. It’s an ideal project for those looking to create a lasting memorial, a heartfelt gift for a dog lover, or a stunning piece of home décor that commands attention. The design’s complexity ensures that every stitch contributes to a nuanced and professional-looking final product.
Key Features and Customization
What truly sets this kit apart is its exceptional level of customization, allowing you to tailor the project to your specific skill level, desired aesthetic, and timeline. This flexibility makes it accessible to a wider range of stitchers, from ambitious intermediates to seasoned experts.
- Variable Canvas & Size: You can choose between 11-count Aida for a quicker, more textured result with larger stitches, or 14-count Aida for finer detail and a smoother finish. The finished canvas size ranges from a modest 20x30 cm to an impressive 60x80 cm, letting you decide the final impact of your artwork.
- Premium Thread Options: The kit comes standard with pre-sorted, colorfast DMC cotton threads, a trusted staple in the cross-stitching world. For an added touch of luxury, you can upgrade to DMC silk threads, which provide a beautiful, subtle sheen that enhances the highlights in the dog’s white coat.
- All-Inclusive Package: This is a complete, ready-to-start project. Each kit includes the Aida canvas, pre-sorted threads, high-quality needles, a detailed color chart, and clear instructions, eliminating the need to source materials separately.
| Feature | Option 1 | Option 2 | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canvas Count | 11-Count Aida | 14-Count Aida | 11 ct: Faster stitching, bolder texture. 14 ct: Finer detail, smoother look. |
| Thread Type | DMC Cotton | DMC Silk (Upgrade) | Cotton: Durability, classic matte finish. Silk: Luxurious sheen, premium feel. |
| Finished Size | 20x30 cm to 60x80 cm | Multiple options | Matching the project's scale to your display space and time commitment. |
Pros and Cons
While this is a standout choice for creating photorealistic counted cross stitch patterns of dogs, it’s important to consider its demands.
Pros:
- Photorealistic Detail: Produces a lifelike portrait that captures subtle shading and texture.
- High Customization: Multiple sizes and thread types allow you to control the final outcome.
- Complete Kit: All necessary materials are included, making it easy to get started.
- Excellent Support: Backed by Cross-Stitched.com's worldwide shipping, tutorials, and active community.
Cons:
- Time-Intensive: The high detail level requires a significant time commitment, especially for larger sizes.
- Challenging for Novices: The complexity and color blending may be difficult for absolute beginners.
- Cost of Upgrades: Opting for silk threads or larger canvas sizes will increase the overall price.
For those interested in the process behind such detailed designs, you can explore more about how to create cross stitch patterns on their blog.
Website: https://cross-stitched.com/products/photo-of-adult-short-coated-white-dog
2. 123Stitch
For stitchers in the United States, 123Stitch is a household name and an indispensable resource for all things needlework. It stands out as a major retailer with an enormous, well-curated catalog of counted cross stitch patterns of dogs, featuring designs from dozens of renowned artists and brands. Whether you're searching for a realistic portrait of a specific breed or a whimsical cartoon puppy, this platform's extensive inventory is one of the most comprehensive available online.
The primary advantage of 123Stitch is its role as a one-stop shop. You can purchase a pattern chart and, on the same order, add all the necessary floss, fabric, needles, and finishing supplies. This convenience is paired with consistently fast, low-cost flat-rate shipping within the US, making it a reliable choice for getting projects started quickly.
Key Features and Offerings
The site’s search functionality allows you to easily filter by designer, theme, or kit type. You'll find everything from full kits that include all materials to chart-only options for those who prefer to use their own stash. Customer reviews on product pages provide valuable insights into pattern clarity and finished results.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Selection | Extensive inventory of dog patterns from designers like Dimensions, Mill Hill, and Bothy Threads. Includes seasonal designs, breed-specific portraits, and samplers. |
| Product Types | Sells full kits, standalone physical charts, and some digital PDF patterns. A great source for specialty fabrics (Aida, linen, evenweave) and a full range of DMC and other floss brands. |
| User Experience | Website is straightforward with clear inventory status (in-stock vs. special order). Praised for excellent customer service and order accuracy. |
| Shipping | Offers fast, affordable flat-rate shipping within the United States. International shipping is also available. |
| Pros & Cons | Pros: Huge selection, one-stop shopping, reliable shipping. Cons: Many charts are physical copies only, not instant downloads. Some designs are only sold as part of a complete kit. |
While many of the patterns are physical charts that must be shipped, some designers do offer downloadable PDF options. If you are interested in exploring more digital formats, you can find a variety of free downloadable cross stitch patterns in PDF format to supplement your collection. For its sheer breadth of stock and reliability, 123Stitch is a top-tier destination for finding your next dog-themed project.
3. EverythingCrossStitch (ECS)
As another major player in the online needlework retail space, EverythingCrossStitch (ECS) offers a vast and varied collection for stitchers looking for their next project. The platform is a strong competitor, providing thousands of patterns, kits, and supplies. For those specifically seeking counted cross stitch patterns of dogs, ECS delivers a robust selection that spans from charming, simplistic breed silhouettes to intricate, multi-color samplers and witty dog-themed quotes.
The standout feature of EverythingCrossStitch is the detailed information provided on each product page. Shoppers can see the specific stitch count, recommended fabric type and count, and a full list of required floss colors. This level of detail is invaluable for project planning, especially for stitchers who prefer to buy charts and source materials from their own stash. The site further enhances this with a convenient tool that allows you to add all required supplies for a pattern to your cart with a single click.
Key Features and Offerings
ECS functions as a comprehensive resource where stitchers can not only find a pattern but also build a complete, custom kit around it. The platform’s user-generated content, like member reviews and Q&A sections on product pages, adds a layer of community insight that can help guide purchasing decisions and set realistic expectations for a project’s difficulty and final appearance.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Selection | A broad inventory of dog-themed patterns including breed-specific designs, seasonal scenes, and samplers from a wide range of popular designers. The selection covers all difficulty levels. |
| Product Types | Sells full kits and a massive library of standalone physical charts. The site is a great source for floss, specialty fabrics, and all necessary stitching tools and accessories. |
| User Experience | Product pages are highly detailed with stitch counts, fabric recommendations, and floss lists. An optional "add all supplies" tool simplifies the process of kitting up a chart-only purchase. |
| Shipping | Offers standard shipping within the United States and internationally. Community feedback sometimes notes that processing and shipping times can be longer than some direct competitors. |
| Pros & Cons | Pros: Very detailed product pages for project planning, convenient "add supplies" feature, competitive pricing on many charts. Cons: Shipping can sometimes be slower than alternatives, inventory and stock levels for specific patterns can fluctuate. |
With its helpful planning tools and competitive pricing on many charts, EverythingCrossStitch is an excellent destination for stitchers who appreciate having all the necessary project details upfront. It empowers you to either conveniently buy a complete package or selectively purchase only what you need to bring your next dog-themed cross stitch creation to life.
4. Heaven and Earth Designs (HAED)
For the ambitious stitcher looking to create a true masterpiece, Heaven and Earth Designs (HAED) is the ultimate destination. This platform specializes in highly detailed, full-coverage counted cross stitch patterns of dogs that transform beloved artworks and illustrations into breathtaking thread paintings. HAED is for those who view cross stitch not just as a hobby, but as a fine art, offering patterns with immense complexity, stunning realism, and a rich, full-color palette.
The primary advantage of HAED is its dedication to large-scale, heirloom-quality projects. Unlike simpler patterns, these charts are designed to capture every subtle shade and detail, resulting in a finished piece that resembles a photorealistic painting. All patterns are sold as digital PDF downloads, providing instant access so you can start gathering your materials immediately after purchase.
Key Features and Offerings
HAED's website provides comprehensive details for each pattern, including the final stitch count, dimensions on various fabric counts, and the exact number of DMC colors required. This allows stitchers to fully understand the scope of a project before committing. Their charts are legendary in the stitching community for their quality and artistic integrity.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Selection | Features complex, artistic renderings of dogs, often in whimsical or fantasy settings like "The Library of Dogs." The focus is on licensed artwork converted into intricate charts. |
| Product Types | Sells digital PDF charts exclusively. Offers multiple chart formats at no extra cost, including Regular Print, Large Print, and options for different stitching methods like "Max Color." |
| User Experience | Website is geared toward experienced stitchers, with detailed product pages and clear digital delivery. Frequent sales and promotions are a major draw for collectors of their patterns. |
| Shipping | No shipping is required as all products are instant digital downloads delivered via email and to your site account. |
| Pros & Cons | Pros: Best-in-class for advanced, hyper-realistic dog portraits; instant PDF access; multiple chart formats included. Cons: Projects are extremely time-intensive and not suitable for beginners; the sheer number of colors can be costly to acquire. |
Given the complexity of HAED designs, they are best suited for stitchers with significant experience who are ready for a long-term, rewarding challenge. For its unparalleled detail and artistic ambition, Heaven and Earth Designs is the premier source for creating a gallery-worthy dog-themed cross stitch project.
5. Etsy
Etsy is the world's leading marketplace for handmade goods and independent creators, making it an unparalleled treasure trove for unique and artistic counted cross stitch patterns of dogs. It hosts thousands of individual shops, offering an endless variety of styles that range from modern minimalist portraits and cute cartoon puppies to intricate, full-coverage breed-specific designs. The platform is particularly known for its vast selection of instant-download PDF patterns.
The key advantage of shopping on Etsy is the direct connection to the designers themselves. This allows for unparalleled customization options, with many artists offering services to turn a photo of your own pet into a one-of-a-kind cross stitch chart. The instant-download nature of most digital patterns means you can purchase a design and start stitching within minutes, making it perfect for spontaneous projects.
Key Features and Offerings
Etsy's powerful search and filtering tools allow you to narrow down the immense selection by delivery type (digital or physical), price, and even seller location. Browsing reviews with photos from other stitchers is a crucial step, providing real-world insight into the quality and clarity of a shop's patterns before you buy.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Selection | Virtually limitless variety of dog patterns from thousands of independent designers worldwide. Includes niche breeds, custom pet portraits from photos, and highly stylized artistic interpretations. |
| Product Types | Primarily instant-download PDF charts. Many sellers also offer full kits with fabric and floss, as well as physical printed charts. |
| User Experience | Intuitive marketplace interface with robust search filters. Direct messaging with sellers for questions and custom orders. Customer reviews and photos are highly valuable for quality assessment. |
| Shipping | Digital items have no shipping fee. For physical kits, shipping costs and times vary significantly by seller location. Many US-based shops offer fast and affordable domestic shipping. |
| Pros & Cons | Pros: Unmatched variety, support for small artists, instant access to digital patterns, custom designs available. Cons: Quality can vary widely between sellers; always check shop reviews. Some sellers may illegally resell patterns. |
Because Etsy is a marketplace, the quality of charting and customer service can differ from one shop to another. A practical tip is to always favor sellers with a high number of positive reviews and a well-established history. For its sheer diversity and the ability to find truly unique and personalized dog-themed charts, Etsy is an essential destination for every cross stitcher.
6. Herrschners
A long-standing and trusted name in the American craft community, Herrschners has been a reliable mail-order and online source for needlework supplies for decades. Its extensive catalog includes a dedicated section for counted cross stitch patterns of dogs, featuring a wide variety of kits and charts from popular brands. This platform is particularly well-suited for stitchers looking for complete, giftable projects or seasonal designs featuring beloved canine companions.
What sets Herrschners apart is its legacy as a comprehensive craft retailer combined with a modern online presence. You can find everything from intricate, realistic dog portraits to charming, simplistic designs perfect for ornaments or greeting cards. The site frequently runs promotions and sales, making it an economical choice for stocking up on kits and supplies from well-known manufacturers.
Key Features and Offerings
Herrschners organizes its needlework offerings into clear categories, allowing users to browse specifically for counted cross stitch kits, charts, or even downloadable patterns. The platform serves as a multi-brand hub, carrying designs from industry leaders like Dimensions, Riolis, and Mill Hill, ensuring a diverse range of styles and difficulty levels.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Selection | Strong collection of dog-themed kits, including holiday ornaments, breed-specific portraits, and whimsical scenes. Carries many popular designs from major cross stitch brands. |
| Product Types | Primarily offers full kits containing fabric, floss, needle, and chart. Also sells standalone charts, books, and a selection of paid digital PDF patterns for instant access. |
| User Experience | Traditional e-commerce layout with category filters and a search bar. The website is straightforward to navigate, and frequent sales and clearance sections are highlighted. |
| Shipping | Offers standard shipping within the United States. Shipping costs are based on order value, with occasional promotions for free shipping. |
| Pros & Cons | Pros: Trusted US brand with a long history, wide variety of kits from multiple designers, frequent sales. Cons: Focus is heavily on kits, standalone PDF options are more limited. Some patterns cannot be bought separately from their kits. |
While the primary offering is physical kits, the growing "Downloadable Designs" section is worth exploring for those who prefer digital charts. For stitchers who appreciate the convenience of an all-in-one package and the reliability of an established retailer, Herrschners is an excellent destination for finding a new dog-themed cross stitch project.
7. DMC (Official Brand Site)
As the most recognized name in embroidery floss, DMC is an authoritative source for stitchers worldwide. While not a pattern marketplace, the official DMC website is a treasure trove of inspiration and resources, including a fantastic library of free counted cross stitch patterns of dogs. This makes it an essential bookmark for anyone looking for high-quality, trustworthy charts without an initial investment, direct from the thread manufacturer itself.
The standout feature of the DMC site is its seamless integration of patterns and supplies. You can browse their curated collection of designs, find a charming portrait like their popular Cocker Spaniel pattern, and instantly download the PDF chart. Better yet, each pattern page includes a complete list of the required DMC floss colors, with a convenient "Add All to Cart" button to purchase everything you need in one click.
Key Features and Offerings
This direct-from-the-source approach ensures you are getting charts designed to perfectly match the brand's iconic color palette. The free patterns are ideal for beginners wanting to practice, or for experienced stitchers looking for a quick, satisfying project. The site also serves as a primary retailer for all DMC threads, needles, fabrics, and stitching accessories.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Selection | A curated, though smaller, collection of free dog patterns. Designs are often modern, clean, and well-charted, showcasing specific DMC threads. |
| Product Types | Offers free, downloadable PDF charts. Serves as a primary retailer for the entire range of DMC embroidery floss, specialty threads, fabrics, and stitching tools. |
| User Experience | The website is clean, modern, and easy to navigate. Pattern pages clearly list all required materials and allow for one-click purchasing of necessary floss. |
| Shipping | Sells and ships physical goods directly. Offers clear delivery estimates and often provides free shipping thresholds for qualifying orders. |
| Pros & Cons | Pros: High-quality, official free patterns; seamless shopping for all required DMC threads and supplies. Cons: Limited selection of dog patterns compared to dedicated retailers or marketplaces. |
While the library of dog-specific charts is more modest, its quality and the convenience of kitting your own project make DMC an invaluable resource. For stitchers loyal to the brand, it's the most reliable place to start. If you'd like to dive deeper into what makes this brand so iconic, you can learn more about DMC counted cross stitch and its history. For a trusted source of free charts and premium supplies, the official DMC site is a must-visit.
7-Source Comparison of Counted Dog Cross-Stitch Patterns
| Item | Implementation Complexity 🔄 | Resource Requirements ⚡ | Expected Outcome ⭐📊 | Ideal Use Cases 💡 | Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cross Stitch — Husky (Photo kit) | Moderate → High; photorealistic detail, large pieces possible 🔄 | All-in-one kit (Aida 11/14, pre-sorted DMC, needles, charts); optional silk upgrade ⚡ | Gallery-ready, lifelike portrait ⭐⭐⭐⭐; high visual impact 📊 | Keepsakes, memorials, wall art, gifting 💡 | Complete kit, size/stitch-count options, community/tutorial support |
| 123Stitch | Variable; product-dependent (beginner→advanced) 🔄 | Large inventory of charts/kits and supplies; fast, low-cost US shipping ⚡ | Reliable fulfillment of chosen designs; consistent availability ⭐⭐⭐ 📊 | US shoppers needing one-stop ordering and quick delivery 💡 | Broad selection, clear stock info, fast shipping, customer support |
| EverythingCrossStitch (ECS) | Variable; clear specs aid planning 🔄 | Charts, fabrics, floss; "add supplies" kitting tool; member reviews ⚡ | Planned, cost-effective kitted orders; dependable item details ⭐⭐📊 | Stitchers who want detailed item specs and competitive prices 💡 | Detailed product pages, add-supplies feature, competitive pricing |
| Heaven and Earth Designs (HAED) | Very high; large stitch counts, many colors, advanced techniques 🔄 | Digital downloads in multiple formats; time- and skill-intensive ⚡ (slow completion) | Extremely detailed, art-quality results ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐; high impact for display 📊 | Advanced stitchers seeking realistic, large-format dog portraits 💡 | Best-in-class realism, instant PDF delivery, format options |
| Etsy | Varies widely; depends on independent designer 🔄 | Instant PDF downloads or physical kits; direct messaging for custom orders ⚡ | Quality and detail vary; potential for unique/indie outcomes ⭐⭐–⭐⭐⭐ 📊 | Unique styles, custom pet portraits, small quick projects or gifts 💡 | Massive variety, niche breeds, customization, frequent deals |
| Herrschners | Low → Moderate; many beginner/intermediate kits 🔄 | Kits from known brands, books/charts, frequent promotions ⚡ | Good giftable and seasonal project outcomes ⭐⭐📊 | Seasonal gifts, beginner-friendly kits, catalog shoppers 💡 | Longstanding retailer, wide kit selection, regular promotions |
| DMC (official) | Low → Moderate; simple to mid-level patterns 🔄 | Free downloadable charts, DMC color lists, option to add thread to order ⚡ | Reliable small projects and practice pieces; consistent color matching ⭐⭐📊 | Practice pieces, small dog motifs, pairing charts with official floss 💡 | Free trusted patterns, easy kitting with official threads, reputable brand |
Create Your Own Custom Canine Masterpiece
Embarking on a new cross-stitch project is an exciting journey, and this guide has equipped you with a diverse range of resources to find the perfect counted cross stitch patterns of dogs. We've explored expansive marketplaces like Etsy and 123Stitch, which offer thousands of designs for every skill level, and specialized vendors like Heaven and Earth Designs (HAED), known for their incredibly detailed and artistic full-coverage charts. We also covered trusted retailers like Herrschners and EverythingCrossStitch for their comprehensive kit selections, and the official DMC site for premium supplies.
The common thread uniting these options is the shared goal of celebrating our canine companions through the timeless art of needlework. Each platform offers a unique pathway to creating a beautiful, handcrafted tribute. Whether you're a beginner seeking an all-in-one kit or an experienced stitcher curating your own materials for a complex pattern, the ideal project is waiting for you.
Selecting the Perfect Dog Pattern for Your Project
Choosing the right pattern is the most critical first step. Your decision should balance your artistic ambition with your current skill set and available time. To make the best choice, consider these key factors:
- Skill Level: Beginners should look for kits with lower color counts, larger Aida fabric counts (like 11 or 14-count), and minimal backstitching or fractional stitches. More advanced stitchers might enjoy the challenge of a HAED pattern with confetti stitches and a high color count on a finer fabric like 25-count evenweave.
- Artistic Style: Do you prefer a modern, minimalist portrait, a whimsical cartoon, or a photorealistic masterpiece? Etsy is a fantastic resource for diverse artistic interpretations, while sites like HAED specialize in converting fine art into detailed charts.
- Project Goal: If you're creating a heartfelt gift or a memorial, a custom pattern might be the most meaningful option. For a decorative piece to match your home decor, you can choose from thousands of pre-made designs that capture a specific breed's charm.
Taking Your Craft to the Next Level
Once you have a few projects under your belt, you might feel the creative spark to design your own patterns. This is a wonderful way to bring your unique artistic vision to life and even share it with the broader stitching community. For those inspired to design their own unique pieces, exploring how to create and sell digital products can open up new opportunities to turn your passion into a potential business.
Ultimately, the world of counted cross stitch patterns of dogs offers endless possibilities to immortalize the furry friends who bring so much joy to our lives. The journey from a blank piece of fabric to a finished portrait is a rewarding experience, stitch by stitch. The key is to choose a project that excites you and allows you to enjoy the meditative process of creating something truly special with your own hands.
Ready to stitch a portrait of your own furry friend? Cross Stitched transforms your favorite photo into a complete, custom cross-stitch kit, delivering everything you need to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Visit Cross Stitched to upload your photo and start your personalized project today
