Free Dog-Themed Pumpkin Carving Stencils for Halloween

a woman wearing an apron with her little dog carving a pumpkin using one of the dog-themed pumpkin carving stencils

Fall is here, and there’s nothing like carving pumpkins to get into the Halloween spirit. Growing up, I always looked forward to creating carving the traditional jack-o’-lantern, but this year, I wanted to try something different. After wandering through Louisville, Kentucky’s Jack O’Lantern Spectacular, where over 5,000 pumpkins are on display, I felt inspired. I spent time searching online to find the best free dog-themed pumpkin carving stencils, and I found some great options that I’m excited to share.

These websites offer incredible free templates that will help you carve the perfect dog-inspired jack-o’-lantern.

Disclosure: This content may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on them, I may get a commission (without any extra cost to you).

How to Use a Pumpkin Stencil

Before diving into the specific stencils, let’s quickly go over how to use them. First, you’ll need:

Pumpkin (obviously!)
Printed stencil
Tape
Carving tools (this one is a big upgrade from the dollar tree kits)
Small poking tool or toothpick (if your kit didn’t come with one)

Here’s how to use them:

Choose and print out your stencil.
Prepare your pumpkin. Cut off the top and scoop out the seeds and pulp. It needs to be completely hollowed out.
Attach the stencil to your pumpkin using tape. Make sure to use tape that will keep the paper stencil firmly on the pumpkin.
Trace the design onto your pumpkin by poking small holes along the stencil lines.
Remove the stencil and start carving along the dots you made.
Light it up and admire your work!

A glowing jack o'lantern with a puppy silhouette carved into it using dog-themed pumpkin carving stencils

Best Free Dog-Themed Pumpkin Carving Stencils

Here’s a roundup of my favorite websites to find free dog-themed pumpkin carving stencils:

23 Dog Breed Stencils from Better Homes & Gardens

This one is probably my favorite. Better Homes & Gardens offers pumpkin carving stencils of favorite dogs. They have a variety of breeds (23 to be exact), from Poodles to Pugs. The instructions are simple, making it easy for both beginners and advanced carvers.

Dog-Themed Pumpkin Carving Stencils from the Pumpkin Lady

The Pumpkin Lady has an amazing collection called “Pumpkin-Patterns Puppers.” Their chalky, vintage designs make them pretty unique. Check her website out and her designs.

Simple Beginner-Friendly Dog Stencils from The Animal Humane Society

If you’re looking for cute and simple, the Animal Humane Society provides user-friendly dog stencils. They are perfect for younger kids or anyone new to carving. They even have step-by-step guidelines to help you get the perfect look.

Challenging Dog-Themed Pumpkin Stencils from Spookmaster

Spookmaster’s animal stencil collection includes some impressive dog designs. Their patterns bring out the finer details and are suitable for those who like a little challenge. You might find it helpful if you’re aiming to create a more realistic dog face.

Create your OWN Dog Pumpkin Stencil from the Pumpkin Masters App

Finally, check out Pumpkin Masters, this is an app you can download on your smartphone. You can upload a picture of your dog and it will create a stencil you can print out. A custom portrait of your pup on a pumpkin. How cool is that?!

(ALMOST FREE) Dog Stencils from ETSY

Okay, I realize this is supposed to be a FREE list, BUT if you don’t mind spending a tiny amount, Etsy has a plethora of cheap dog stencils for pumpkin carving. Here is a cute “Dog Mom” stencil for under $3. If that doesn’t suit your fancy, type in “dog pumpkin stencils” in the search bar and many cute options will pop up!