Border Terrier Portraits & Paintings
Border Terriers are such engaging little dogs to portray in pastel. With their alert expressions, wiry coats and bright intelligent eyes, they have a character that often shines through beautifully in portraiture. Over the years I have created many Border Terrier portraits and Border Terrier paintings, each carefully drawn from photographs supplied by the owner.
Although they are small in size, Border Terriers have wonderfully lively personalities. My aim with every Border Terrier portrait is to capture not only the likeness of the dog but also something of the spirit and warmth that make this breed such devoted companions.
Border Terrier Portrait
The Border Terrier’s expressive face and distinctive coat make it a particularly rewarding subject to paint. Their wiry fur contains subtle variations of colour which can be beautifully explored in pastel, from soft sandy tones to deeper reddish browns. In this portrait the dog’s collar and tag add a lovely personal detail, helping to reflect the individuality of Katy as well as her gentle and attentive expression.
Wheaten Border Terrier Portraits
The wheaten Border Terrier is one of the most charming colour variations of the breed. Their soft golden coats contain warm honey tones which create beautiful depth when layered in pastel.
This Border Terrier had such an engaging gaze, full of curiosity and intelligence. Capturing the brightness of the eyes and the texture of the coat helps bring the portrait to life and convey the lively personality that Border Terriers are so well known for.
Border Terrier Portraits with Scenic Backgrounds
While many clients prefer a simple background to keep the focus entirely on the dog, it is also possible to include meaningful scenery in the portrait.
In this piece the Border Terrier is shown against a coastal backdrop with sea and white cliffs in the distance. Backgrounds like this can help tell a story about the dog’s life — perhaps recalling favourite walks or special places shared with their owner. If you would like to explore these possibilities further, you may find my guide to backgrounds for pet portraits helpful.
Border Terrier Cross Portraits
I am also often asked to create portraits of crossbreed dogs, and Border Terrier crosses can have wonderfully distinctive features. Each one has its own unique markings and expression which makes every portrait different.
This cheerful Border cross wore a playful bandana decorated with colourful plants and insects, which added a lovely sense of character to the finished artwork. You can find out more about custom features here in my FAQ's.
Thank you so much for the portrait of Barley. You have captured him extremely well and the marking and colourings are exacting. You are very talented. I really appreciate all the time that you have spent on perfecting it.
Martha Gibbons (Manchester)
Group Portraits of Dogs
Many people share their lives with more than one dog, and it can be a real pleasure to bring them together within a single portrait. Group portraits allow beloved canine friends to be shown side by side, creating a special keepsake for the owner.
In this portrait, the Border Terrier is pictured alongside a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Their different colours and personalities complement each other beautifully, making the composition both lively and harmonious. If you would like to explore this option, you can read more about group dog portraits here.
Border Terrier Drawings in Pastel from Your Photos
All of my portraits are drawn entirely by hand in soft pastel using photographs provided by the owner. If you have several images of your dog, I can often combine elements from different photographs to achieve the most natural and balanced composition. Please do get in touch if you are not sure about the photos you have and their suitability, as I can often create a work by combining several images together.
My aim is always to create a portrait that feels lifelike and personal — something that reflects both the appearance and personality of your dog.
A Note from Julie
Hi there and welcome! One of the joys of painting Border Terriers is studying their wonderfully expressive faces. Every dog has its own subtle differences in colouring and expression, from the deeper grizzle and tan Border Terrier coats to lighter wheaten or red Border Terrier variations.
When working on a portrait I spend time observing these details carefully — the texture of the coat, the tilt of the head, and the gentle intelligence in the eyes. It is often these small details that help bring the portrait to life and capture the unique character of the dog. I've been creating portraits for over twenty years and regularly post work out across the UK and internationally, so with the internet, distance is no problem!
Other Dog Portraits
As well as Border Terriers, I have painted portraits of many other dog breeds. You may also enjoy browsing some of my other dog portrait galleries, including:
- Miniature Schnauzer portraits
- Jack Russell Terrier portraits
- Yorkshire Terrier portraits
- Labrador portraits
- All dog portraits
Commission A Border Terrier Portrait
If you would like to commission a Border Terrier portrait from your own photographs, I would be love to hear from you. I work closely with each client to choose the most suitable reference image and composition, ensuring that the finished artwork reflects the individuality of your dog. Whether you would prefer a simple head study or a portrait with additional background or detail, each piece is created with great care and attention.
Please feel free to contact me to discuss your ideas or send your photographs for guidance. I look forward to hearing about your Border Terrier and creating a portrait you will treasure for many years.
I’m always delighted when clients take the time to share their thoughts after receiving their portrait. Here are a few of the kind comments from their Google reviews.
Contact Julie
• ask me a question by filling in this form
• Email your photos to find out which ones can become a portrait
• Feel free to ring me on (01243) 773123
• or commission a portrait here