Custom Dog & Pet Portraits from Photos in Canada
Commission a hand-painted oil portrait of your dog from the photographs you love. From a familiar tilt of the head to distinctive coat markings, we help you choose a dog painting artist, plan the composition and find a canvas size that suits your portrait.
One-pet portraits from C$350 · Free photo assessment · Delivery across Canada
From a favourite photograph to a real dog portrait
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Original photograph · Tap to return to the painting
Harlee: the expression, not the car interior
Andriano commissioned a portrait of Harlee, focusing on the dog’s expression and distinctive markings rather than the car interior in the photograph.
This commission shows why the reference photo is a starting point: you can discuss a simpler background and a composition that keeps attention on your pet.
A real commission, not a digital mock-up. Tap the painting to compare it with the original photograph.
See the drawing and painting process
A much-loved cat, a meaningful birthday gift
A familiar sleeping pose on a purple chair
Moira commissioned this framed portrait of her friend’s much-loved cat as a birthday gift, keeping its familiar sleeping pose and purple chair.
Tap the finished painting to compare it with the reference photo, or expand the drawing and painting process below.
Tap to see the original photo
Original photograph · Tap to return to the painting
See the drawing and painting process
Dog portrait prices in Canadian dollars
Starting prices below are for one dog without a frame. Each artist sets their own rates; the final quote depends on your chosen artist, composition, background and number of pets.
| Canvas size | Starting price (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 8 × 12 in | From C$350 |
| 12 × 16 in | From C$500 |
| 16 × 20 in | From C$700 |
| 20 × 24 in | From C$900 |
| 25 × 32 in | From C$1,200 |
Custom sizes and multiple-dog portraits are quoted individually. We recommend dimensions after reviewing your photographs and composition. Framing service is complimentary; the frame itself costs extra and is quoted separately.
Explore dog and pet portrait paintings
Compare natural poses, outdoor settings and characterful costume portraits. Tell us which paintings appeal to you so we can recommend an artist whose approach suits your dog and your home.
Choosing a dog painting artist
A likeness with personality
Look for the expression, eyes and coat details you would like emphasised. A close-up can bring attention to your dog’s face, while a full-body composition leaves room for a favourite pose or setting.
You can request a particular look from the gallery or ask us to recommend an artist based on your photographs and budget.
Gifts, companions and memorials
A custom dog portrait can celebrate a new companion, mark a birthday or remember a much-loved pet. Share the details that matter: a favourite collar, an ear shape, a familiar blanket or a particular expression.
If it is a gift, tell us the date before ordering so we can confirm what is achievable.
Which photographs work best for a dog oil painting?
Start with the eyes and expression
- Choose a photo taken near your dog’s eye level, with the eyes in focus.
- Natural daylight helps show coat colours and markings accurately.
- Send the original image file where possible, rather than a screenshot or heavily filtered copy.
- Include extra photographs for fur details, body shape or a favourite pose.
Older photos are welcome too
If a treasured photograph is blurred or part of your dog is missing, send it for a free assessment. Additional photographs and your description may help the artist interpret missing details.
We will discuss what can reasonably be painted before you commit. We can also advise on combining pets from separate photographs and simplifying distracting backgrounds.
How your custom dog portrait is made
- Share your photos. Tell us about your dog, preferred paintings, budget and any gift date.
- Agree the portrait plan. Receive a personalised proposal with artist, composition, canvas-size advice and pricing. A 30% deposit begins your commission.
- Follow the painting. Receive progress photographs or videos and request revisions during painting.
- Approve before dispatch. Pay the remaining 70% once you are satisfied with the finished artwork, before it is dispatched.
Typical delivery is 4–10 weeks from plan confirmation and receipt of the deposit, depending on the artwork’s content and size. This estimate includes preparation and transit. Read about the commission process →
More real pet portrait commissions
Jono: two photographs, one painting
Jono’s photograph and a separate photograph of a room with dried flowers were combined into one oil portrait for a new home.
See both original reference photographs →Looking for a cat portrait artist instead? Explore our cat portrait paintings, or view equine portraits.
Dog portrait questions
Are these hand-painted dog portraits or printed photographs?
These are commissioned oil paintings made by hand from reference photographs, not photo prints or digital filters. Your artist develops the agreed composition and shares progress during painting.
How much does a custom dog portrait cost?
Starting prices are C$350 for a 8 × 12 in canvas with one dog, without a frame. Artist choice, canvas size, background and additional pets affect the final quote. Send your photographs for a personalised proposal before paying a deposit.
Can you paint two dogs from separate photographs?
Yes, you can submit separate photographs for a multiple-pet composition. We assess angles, lighting and relative size, then recommend a layout and suitable canvas dimensions. Multiple-pet pricing is confirmed in your proposal.
Can I commission a memorial dog portrait from an old photo?
Send the photographs you have, even if they are not sharp. Extra reference images and details about your dog can help. We will assess the available information and explain any limitations before agreeing the painting.
Can the artist change the background or remove a lead?
Discuss any changes when submitting your photos. A simpler backdrop, a different setting or removing distracting items may be possible; the agreed composition and its price are confirmed before painting.
Do you offer framing and delivery across Canada?
Yes. Framing service is complimentary, with the frame itself quoted separately. We arrange delivery across Canada and confirm the plan and timing for your address before you proceed.
How do I choose the right size for my dog portrait?
We consider the number of pets, whether you want a head-and-shoulders or full-body painting, the available photograph detail and where the artwork will hang. You receive size advice with your proposal rather than having to choose without guidance.
Let’s plan a portrait of your dog
Send the photographs you love. Our Toronto studio can help with artist selection, composition and size advice, with delivery across Canada.
Explore portrait commission services in your area · More real photo-to-painting cases