Lifelike Canines Lounge in Emily O'Leary Uncanny Hooked Rugs

January 13, 2025

Most dogs spend at least half of their day asleep—some getting z’s for upwards of 18 hours. Whether curled up on the floor or enjoying a long-legged stretch, the subjects of Emily O’Leary’s rugs evoke our beloved pets.

Based on photographs of actual dogs, she focuses mostly on animals the artist doesn’t know. “I like to hook dogs that are pretty ‘mutty’ looking, that don’t look like yard-bound Golden Retrievers or Doodles,” she tells Colossal. “I’m attracted to the shared history of humans and dogs—how the bulk of their domestication may have happened somewhat inadvertently.


“Injured Elbow Dog” (2020), hand-hooked wool yarn on linen


“Brown and Black Dog” (2021), hand-hooked wool yarn on linen





The pieces’ weight and realistic details engender an intimate connection as they come to life, so to speak. “I really feel like I’ve built a relationship with the object,” she says, adding: “Sometimes the dogs I hook have wounds or scars. The dog rug I’m working on right now is missing a little chunk of her ear. I want to depict them as they are, not stuffed animal versions.”

Find more on O’Leary’s website and Instagram.

https://www.thisiscolossal.com/2025/01/emily-oleary-dog-rugs/