Newfoundland Dog Paintings & Portraits
Newfoundland dogs have a remarkable presence — powerful yet gentle, with deep, thoughtful expressions that make them unforgettable subjects for portrait work. Their large heads, soft eyes and thick, flowing coats offer both a challenge and an opportunity to create something truly striking in pastel.
Because of their size and distinctive features, Newfoundland dog paintings often benefit from a slightly larger scale, allowing space to capture the richness of the coat and the subtle character in the face. Whether black, black and white, or softer grey tones, each variation brings its own unique qualities to a portrait.
Black and White Newfoundland Dog Painting
This black and white Newfoundland portrait highlights the contrast between the deep, velvety tones of the coat and the soft white markings across the chest and muzzle. Careful layering of pastel helps to build depth while retaining the softness that is so characteristic of this breed.
Black Newfoundland Portrait (Side Profile)
A side profile can be a particularly elegant way to depict a Newfoundland. With Hagrid in this position, I was able to emphasize the strength of his head and the gentle curve of his muzzle.
As a very large breed, Newfoundland portraits are best suited to slightly larger artwork sizes. For a head and shoulders portrait, I typically recommend a minimum of 18" x 14", which allows enough space to capture the detail and presence of the dog without feeling constrained.
Grey Newfoundland Dog Painting
This portrait shows a softer, grey-toned Newfoundland, where subtle colour transitions and fine detail are key to conveying the texture of the coat.
I use Rowney soft pastels for background layers, and then Stabilo pastel pencils for adding details. Pastel media allows for delicate blending, helping to achieve both the density of the fur and the calm, steady expression that Newfoundlands are so well known for.
You can learn more about pastel and how it differs from other media such as watercolour here in my FAQ's.
I just wanted to say thank you so much for your efforts. It's a stunning picture of her and I'm sure my mum will treasure it when I give it to her next month….Thanks for all your help before and during the process - it will be a wonderful, memorable gift for my mum.
Ben (Buckinghamshire)
Other Dog Portraits
Working with a wide variety of breeds has been one of the most rewarding parts of my work. If you’d like to see more, you can explore other dog portrait galleries below:
I just wanted to say thank you so much for your efforts. It's a stunning picture of her and I'm sure my mum will treasure it when I give it to her next month….Thanks for all your help before and during the process - it will be a wonderful, memorable gift for my mum.
Ben (Buckinghamshire)
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