A pattern to knit a pair of socks that represents the transition that a Greyhound who has spent all their life in racing kennels has to make, to adjust to becoming a companion dog in a domestic environment.

Paddy was entrusted to our care back in October last year. He is still a rather timid boy, but his confidence is now growing every day.
The proceeds from any sales of this pattern will be donated to https://greyhoundgap.org.uk/ the charity that rescues dogs like Paddy, and helps them into homes.

This pair of socks starts at the cast on for the toe, and has a sole gusset, which gives a stretchy fit, ideal for those with a high instep. After the short row heel turn, there is an integrated heel flap, which means that the heel flap is knitted in as you go, with no awkward picking up of stitches afterwards.

Length of foot is around 9 1/2 inches after blocking, but is quite stretchy. Rows can be added or subtracted at the toe. Also, you could go up or down a needle size.

4 ply sock yarn. You will need approximately 50g each of a light background yarn, and a good dark contrast. also, a 20g mini skein, or equivalent leftover sock yarn in a bright accent colour for the toes and cuffs. Variegated yarn is not suitable, but a yarn like Crazy Zauberball, with long colour changes, will work, as long as you make sure that there is good contrasts between yarns. You may have to cut out sections of yarn that don’t work with your background yarn.

If you want a bit of bling, you have an option of adding a few seed beads around the top of the leg, and one to make your dogs eye sparkle.