Step 1
GAUGE: 8 sts + 16 rows = 4 in. (10 cm) in Garter st (knit every row). BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR GAUGE. When you match the gauge in a pattern, your project will be the size specified in the pattern and the materials specified in the pattern will be sufficient. If it takes you fewer stitches and rows to make a 4 in. [10 cm] square, try using a smaller size hook or needles; if more stitches and rows, try a larger size hook or needles. NOTES: STRIPE PATTERN 2 rows A, 2 rows B, 2 rows C in Garter st throughout
Step 2
DOG SWEATER BACK With A, cast on 25 (31, 37, 43) sts. Work in Garter st in Stripe Pattern until piece measures 7 (12, 14, 16) in. [18 (30.5, 35.5, 40.5) cm] from beg. Dec Row (RS): K 1, k2tog, k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k 1 – 23 (29, 35, 41) sts. Continuing in Stripe Pattern, K 3 rows. Rep Dec Row every 4th row 4 (4, 5, 7) more times – 15 (21, 25, 27) sts. Bind off.
Step 3
UNDERPIECE With A, cast on 11 (13, 15, 17) sts. Work in Garter st in Stripe Pattern until piece measures 4-1/2 (7-1/4, 10-1/4, 10-3/4) in. [11.5 (18.5, 26, 27.5) cm] from beg. Dec Row (RS): K 1, k2tog, k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k 1 – 9 (11, 13, 15) sts. Continuing in Stripe Pattern, K 4 rows. Rep Dec Row every 5th row 2 (3, 4, 5) more times – 5 sts. Bind off.
Step 4
FINISHING Starting from bind off edge, sew sides of Underpiece to Back for 2 (2 1/2, 3, 3 1/2) in. [5 (6.5, 7.5, 9) cm] in. Leave the next 3 (3 1/2, 4, 4 1/2) in. [7.5 (9, 10, 11.5) cm] open on each side for legs, then seam remaining length of sides.