Custom dog portraits from your favourite photo

Styles that suit dogs

Dogs vary so much in coat, colour and face shape that almost every style works for someone. These four are a good place to start.

For coat and character

A realistic painted portrait shows off texture: wiry terrier coats, silky spaniel ears, the grey creeping into an old muzzle. Choose it when likeness matters most.

For dogs with presence

Some dogs carry themselves like royalty already. The royal king or queen style dresses them in robes and regalia, and it tends to suit bold, expressive faces.

For a gentler look

Soft pastel watercolour works well for pale and fluffy dogs, puppies and anyone who prefers calm colours on the wall.

For dogs who love the outdoors

If your dog is happiest on a beach or a hill, the outdoor adventure scene puts them somewhere wild and windswept.

Breeds, mixes and tricky coats

When you order, tell us as much as you know about your dog. "Working cocker spaniel" or "lurcher, probably greyhound and collie" gives the AI far more to go on than "dog". Crossbreeds and rescue dogs of unknown background are just as welcome; describe what you see, such as rough coat, one ear up or a white chest.

Some coats are harder to capture than others. Merle and brindle patterns, heavy ticking and very curly coats can shift slightly between versions. Uploading two or three clear photos helps, and if the first result misses a patch or a stripe, you can try another version.

Photo tips for dogs

• Crouch to your dog's eye level rather than shooting from above, which shortens legs and enlarges the head.
• Hold a treat or squeaky toy just above the lens. A quick noise often brings the ears up and the eyes to the camera.
• Photograph after a walk, when your dog is calmer and more likely to sit still.
• For black dogs, use plenty of soft daylight so the eyes and coat detail don't disappear.
• Keep the mouth either closed or relaxed; a mid-pant shot can look odd once painted.

There's more advice in our pet photography tips.

Gift and memorial ideas

A dog portrait makes a thoughtful gift for a new puppy owner, a birthday or a dog's retirement from working life. Add the name and a date, and choose a framed print so it arrives ready to give.

If you've lost your dog, a portrait can be a quiet way to remember them. Our minimal and keepsake collection includes calm, simple styles with room for a name and dates.