Question 1

What types of pets do you create portraits of?

Accepted Answer

I create custom portraits of dogs, cats, horses, birds, and other cherished animals. Each commissioned dog painting is based on your pet's unique personality and likeness.

Question 2

What mediums do you use for pet portraits?

Accepted Answer

I work in oil paints and charcoal, primarily. Each medium offers a different style for commissioned dog paintings — from rich and detailed to soft and expressive.

Question 3

Which is better, canvas or wood panel for a pet portrait?

Accepted Answer

Both are excellent options. Wood panels provide a smooth surface ideal for fine detail and color vibrancy. Canvas offers a traditional, textured look. While I prefer wood panels, the choice depends on your style preferences and where the portrait will hang.

Question 4

Do you prefer wood panels or canvas?

Accepted Answer

I prefer painting on cradled wood panels because they allow for sharper detail and a refined finish. However, I’m happy to work on canvas if you prefer.

Question 5

Can I hang a wood panel on the wall?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Every wood panel comes wired and ready to hang securely.

Question 6

Can you send me a photo of what wood panels look like?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I can send you images showing the front, sides, and hanging hardware.

Question 7

Do you varnish oil paintings?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I apply Gamvar Matte Varnish for protection and color enhancement. A gloss finish is also available upon request.

Question 8

Do you frame oil paintings?

Accepted Answer

Oil paintings on cradled panels do not require frames but can be framed with floater frames. I’m happy to offer recommendations.

Question 9

Can you include my dog’s favorite toy in the portrait?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Including personal items like toys can add extra meaning to your commissioned dog painting.

Question 10

How do I decide which size portrait to order?

Accepted Answer

Consider where you’ll display the artwork and the photo you want to use. I can recommend the best dimensions and orientation for your space and image.

Question 11

Can you paint a portrait other than the sizes listed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, custom sizes are available beyond those listed on the pricing page.(https://www.denniscrothers.com/pricing-pet-portraits)

Question 12

Can I choose the background color?

Accepted Answer

Yes! When you commission a dog portrait, you can request a custom background color to match your home decor. I can also suggest a background that complements your pet’s fur color, personality, and the overall style of the painting.

Question 13

Can you add a background scene to the portrait?

Accepted Answer

Simple scenic or abstract backgrounds are possible. Complex backgrounds are considered case-by-case based on the reference photos.

Question 14

What kind of photos should I send?

Accepted Answer

Photos taken outdoors or near a window, at your pet’s eye level, work best. Natural light brings out detail and character. Take a look at my list of photo tips.(https://www.denniscrothers.com/how-to-photograph-your-pet)

Question 15

Do you prefer close-ups or action shots?

Accepted Answer

Both can work! Close-ups show detailed personality. Action shots capture energy and movement

Question 16

Can you paint from old or low-quality photos?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I can often combine multiple references or adjust details to work with cherished older photos.

Question 17

My photo has poor lighting. Can you still work with it?

Accepted Answer

In many cases, yes. I can often adjust lighting and contrast digitally to retrieve lost detail.

Question 18

There’s a lot going on in my photo. Can you remove that?

Accepted Answer

Yes, distracting elements can often be removed so the focus remains on your pet.

Question 19

Can you include more than one pet in a portrait?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If photographed together, it's easy. If from separate photos, I’ll review angles and lighting to create a natural, cohesive composition.

Question 20

How long does a custom portrait take to complete?

Accepted Answer

Typical turnaround time is 6–8 weeks depending on the medium and my current workload.

Question 21

How far in advance should I order a custom pet portrait?

Accepted Answer

It’s a good idea to order 6–8 weeks ahead, especially for gifts or holidays. Rush orders may be possible depending on my schedule.

Question 22

Can I request a rush order?

Accepted Answer

Rush orders may be possible depending on my schedule. Please reach out directly if you have a specific deadline in mind.

Question 23

How much does a custom pet portrait cost?

Accepted Answer

Pricing for a commission dog portrait varies based on the size and medium you choose. You can view current options on my pet portrait pricing page.(https://www.denniscrothers.com/pricing-pet-portraits)

Question 24

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

I accept Venmo and PayPal.

Question 25

How do you ship portraits?

Accepted Answer

All custom pet portraits are carefully packaged and shipped via UPS Ground with full tracking. Delivery within the United States is free and typically takes between 1 to 5 business days. Expedited shipping options are available upon request. I also offer international shipping for pet portraits; additional shipping charges may apply depending on the destination.

Question 26

Do you paint people too?

Accepted Answer

Yes, although my primary focus is pets, I do occasionally accept portrait commissions of people.

Question 27

Do you offer gift certificates for custom pet portraits?

Accepted Answer

Yes! A pet portrait gift certificate makes a unique and meaningful gift. Contact me to arrange one.

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FAQs About Ordering a Custom Dog Portrait