A show about amateur knitters in a rustic Scottish barn might seem harmless enough, but Game Of Wool: Britain’s Best Knitter has found itself in hot water for the second time in as many weeks.
This time, animal rights charity Peta has slammed the programme over the use of dogs as fashion models, claiming the outfits could cause “discomfort and stress” for the animals.
Dogs in Woolly Fashion Draw Criticism
Last Sunday, the episode asked contestants to craft coats and hats for greyhounds Dayna and Dobbie.
While the creations were technically impressive, viewers were quick to notice the dogs looked less than thrilled.
Comments flooded social media noting that the animals’ tails weren’t wagging and that they seemed “sad” during their fashion moment.
Peta’s vice president of programmes, Elisa Allen, didn’t hold back.
“Dogs aren’t dolls; they are whole, intelligent individuals who should be respected for who they are,” she told The Mail on Sunday.
She urged Channel 4 to reconsider using real wool and suggested switching to “natural, biodegradable plant wools” instead.
Allen emphasized that dog clothing should only be used when it’s truly in the animal’s interest, like keeping warm or dry.
She warned that putting outfits on dogs merely for entertainment could lead to stress, confusion, and discomfort.
Tom Daley Leads the Knitting Challenge
The show, presented by former Olympic diver Tom Daley — who recently appeared on Celebrity Traitors — guides knitting enthusiasts through a series of creative challenges.
While the programme celebrates technical skill and flair, it has struggled to keep the audience onside this season.
Earlier Cultural Criticism Over Fair Isle Technique
The dog outfit controversy comes shortly after Shetland Islanders criticized the show for inaccurately portraying the historic Fair Isle knitting technique.
Local knitter Helen Barwick wrote in The Shetland Times that the programme demonstrated a “blatant disregard for a longstanding tradition,” citing incorrect terminology and misrepresented patterns.
Mixed Reactions From Viewers
Viewers were vocal online about the dog segment.
One wrote: “All that sparkly uncomfortable wool and the ridiculous hats! I felt so sorry for the dog.”
Another added: “As if any self-respecting, animal-caring dog owner would subject their canine to wearing these totally impractical outfits.”
Some also expressed disappointment at Daley himself for being involved in the stunt.
Channel 4 Defends Animal Welfare
Channel 4 responded by assuring the public that both Dobbie and Dayna were well cared for during filming.
“There was a registered dog handler on set who was responsible for ensuring the welfare of the dogs, and their owners were present too,” a spokesperson said.
The network also noted the dogs received special treats for participating in the episode.
A Woolly Week of Controversy
Between cultural complaints and concerns over canine comfort, Game Of Wool has proven that even a cosy knitting competition can generate headlines.
For now, producers, contestants, and Channel 4 will have to navigate a delicate balance between creativity, tradition, and animal welfare — all while keeping viewers entertained.
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