Springer Spaniel Portraits & Paintings
English Springer Spaniels have a wonderful sense of energy and attentiveness that often shines through in portraiture. Their expressive eyes, soft feathered coats and distinctive markings make them particularly rewarding dogs to draw in pastel. Many Springer Spaniels are lively companions who love the countryside, and this natural alertness often gives them a thoughtful and intelligent expression when observed closely. Over the years I have created many Springer Spaniel portraits and Springer Spaniel paintings, each carefully drawn from photographs supplied by the owner.
Whether the dog is a working spaniel, a family companion or a much-loved friend remembered through portraiture, my aim is always to capture both the likeness and the character that make each dog unique.
Liver and White Springer Spaniel Portrait
This portrait of Sam, a handsome liver and white Springer Spaniel, shows the breed’s elegant head and gentle expression. It was fascinating to work on the warm chestnut tones of the liver markings and to contrast these with the beautiful soft white areas of the coat. Springer Spaniels often have particularly expressive eyes and beautifully textured ears, and pastel allows these soft layers of fur to be built gradually to create depth and realism.
Black and White Springer Spaniel Portrait
The black and white Springer Spaniel has a striking contrast between the dark markings and the lighter areas of the coat. These variations in tone create a lovely sense of form when translated into pastel.
In Gus’s portrait the darker ears frame the face beautifully. When creating his lighter fur around the muzzle and chest I was able to bring attention to his calm and attentive expression.
Different Background Options for Springer Spaniel Portraits
Sketched Backgrounds
In Toby’s portrait the background is kept soft and understated, with just enough tonal variation to suggest the space where he is lying. This type of background keeps the composition simple while still giving the portrait a sense of depth.
Scenic Backgrounds
Other portraits include a more detailed setting. In this example the spaniel is shown on a favourite countryside walking trail, with distant fields and soft skies creating a peaceful atmosphere. You can read more about these possibilities on my page about backgrounds for pet portraits.
Including Special Features in a Portrait
Many owners like to include small details that reflect their dog’s personality. These can include collars, tags, favourite toys or other meaningful objects. In this portrait, the owner asked if Hamish could be shown beside his well-loved soft toy. This was a wonderful idea and added a charming personal touch to the composition. Details like this often make a portrait feel even more personal and meaningful.
If you would like to include similar elements, you can read more about these options on my custom pet portrait page.
We are both enthralled with the detail of the portrait and cannot express our pleasure enough to convey the time and effort that it must have taken to complete such an exceptional piece of art.
David and Geraldine (Stirling, Scotland)
Creating a Springer Spaniel Portrait from Your Photographs
Most portraits begin with the photographs you send. Images taken outdoors or in natural light are often especially helpful because they show the true colours and markings of the dog.
Sometimes a single photograph provides everything needed for the portrait, while in other cases I may work from several images. One picture might show the dog’s expression beautifully while another captures the markings or posture more clearly.
By studying these photographs carefully I can create a composition that reflects the dog naturally and accurately.
A Note from Julie
Hi, and welcome to my site! I have been working as a professional pet portrait artist for over twenty-five years, creating commissioned portraits for clients across the UK and internationally. Each portrait is drawn entirely by hand in soft pastel, a traditional medium that allows delicate layers of colour and detail to build gradually.
Springer Spaniels are particularly enjoyable to draw because of their expressive faces and beautifully feathered coats. Their lively yet gentle nature often seems to shine through in a portrait, making them wonderful subjects to capture on paper. Please do get in touch if you have any questions!
Other Dog Portraits
As well as Springer Spaniels, I have created portraits of many other breeds. You might enjoy browsing some of my other dog portrait galleries, including:
- Cocker Spaniel portraits
- Labrador portraits
- Golden Retriever portraits
- German Shepherd portraits
- All dog portraits
How To Commission Your Spaniel Portrait
If you would like to commission an English Springer Spaniel portrait, the process is simple. Many clients begin by emailing a few photographs of their dog, and I can advise which images would work best for the portrait. Portraits are usually completed within three to four weeks, depending on my current schedule. Once finished, the artwork is carefully packaged and sent securely so it arrives safely with its new owner.
Thanks to the internet I regularly create portraits for clients both within the UK and around the world, so wherever you live you are very welcome to get in touch.
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