There’s something quietly magical happening across homes in the UK and no, it’s not just the rise in sourdough starters. It’s art. But not just any art - pet portraits.
Pet portraits are showing up above fireplaces, nestled into gallery walls, and becoming thoughtful gifts. And honestly? I’m completely here for it.
Because for many of us, our pets are our soulmates with four paws. They’ve seen us at our best, our worst, and that 3 am biscuit run in slippers. So why wouldn’t we want to honour them in the best way possible?
Let me take you through why pet portraits are everywhere right now, why they matter, and how to go about getting your very own.
A Portrait Boom Fuelled by Love
I think the last few years have made many of us realise just how deeply we’re connected to our pets. Through lockdowns, long walks, home offices, and quiet evenings, our dogs, cats (and the odd house rabbit or two) became our constant companions. No judgement. No fuss. Just love.
That shift has really shown up in wall art.
Suddenly, more people are choosing pet portraits over trendy prints or generic landscapes. It’s a way to keep those everyday curled-up snoozes, the cheeky glances, and the waggy-tailed greetings alive and glowing on your wall.
Why They’re So Much More Than Just a Picture
I’ve painted a fair few pets in my time, from scruffy rescue pups to show-stopping felines, horses, highland cows, and even the occasional goat named Dottie. But here’s what I’ve learned: no two are the same.
Each pet brings something different. A vibe. A sparkle. A mischief. And when I paint them, that’s what I chase — the feeling of them. Not just a headshot with whiskers and ears, but a pet portraits that feels like they’re right there, sitting beside you, or about to nudge your arm for a treat.
Why Pet Portraits So Big in the UK Right Now
Here in the UK, we have a long-standing love affair with our pets. We pamper, protect, and treat them like royalty, and rightly so. They deserve it!
But this new wave of pet portraits love is more personal than posh. It’s about warmth, comfort, and individuality. British homes are getting braver with how they decorate -
moving away from cookie-cutter looks to wall art pieces that actually mean something. That’s where a pet portrait of your beloved cocker spaniel, Frenchie, or ginger cat fits in perfectly.
It’s also a lovely nod to British eccentricity - there’s something fun about a stately-looking pet portrait hanging above a mantelpiece, especially when it’s bursting with colour and character.
What Makes a Great Pet Portrait (In My Opinion)
Now, I might be biased - okay, definitely - but I believe a good pet portrait needs to have soul. Whether it’s a fine wall art print, a bold wall art canvas, or a framed piece of wall art ready for gifting, here’s what I think makes it truly special:
Personality First: It’s got to feel like them. Whether that’s captured in a side-eye glance or the way their ears flop differently, those quirks matter.
Colour That Speaks: I often use rich, expressive colours to bring out emotion - warm golds, playful pinks, and stormy blues. It’s not just what they look like; it’s the mood they give you.
Textures and Movement: Especially for long-haired lovelies or energetic pups, I paint in a way that suggests movement, like they could leap off the wall any second.
A Little Storytelling: You know I love a good tale. Most of my pieces of wall art come with a story - sometimes completely made up, sometimes pulled from what I learned about the pet - but they are always full of heart.
Getting Your Own Pet Portrait (Let’s Talk Details)
So, how do you get one? Don’t worry, it’s not stuffy or complicated. Here’s how it usually works when you commission or shop with me:
Browse the Current Collection
I have a growing family of ready-made animal art — dogs, cows, horses, and more. You might find your own pet’s twin in the bunch! These are available in various formats:
Framed Canvas—My most premium format. Comes ready to hang and full of presence.
Framed Print—A bit lighter and super versatile, perfect for gallery walls.
Unframed Print—A budget-friendly option without compromising on colour or quality.
All my wall art prints are museum-quality, with giclée printing and lightfast inks that keep everything looking vibrant for decades.
Want a Custom Pet Portrait? Let’s Chat!
If you’d like a portrait of your pet, not just a lookalike, I occasionally open commissions. You send me photos, tell me about their personality (the more quirks, the better), and we’ll go from there. These get booked up fast, so keep an eye on my website or Instagram for updates.
Find the Right Fit for Your Home
Does a bold canvas or a smaller print work best for your space? Drop me a message! I love helping people visualise what piece will make their room shine. Sometimes it’s about finding the right spot; other times it’s about matching a vibe.
My Favourite Pet Portraits So Far
I’ve painted a lot of animals over the years - from cheeky pups to sassy cats and majestic horses - and while I adore every single one of them, a few do have a special place in my heart (don’t tell the others!).
Lady Marmalade the Cat— If you’ve ever known a cat who absolutely owns the room, you’ll get her. Full of sass and sparkle, with those bold, warm tones - she’s a fan favourite for good reason. Her attitude practically jumps off the canvas.
Miss Ellie the Horse – She’s the life of the party - quite literally! I imagine her dancing under the moonlight with muddy hooves and a cocktail in her hoof. Her wall art canvas bursts with energy, grace, and that lovable wild side. She’s proof that elegance and mischief can go hand-in-hand.
Each of these pieces of wall art tells a story — not just about how they look, but who they are. That’s always my goal with every pet portrait: to make the personality shine, the quirks come through, and the connection feel real.
Why Now’s the Perfect Time
Whether you're looking to treat yourself, surprise someone special, or celebrate a pet who’s no longer with us, there’s something incredibly comforting about bringing them into your home through wall art.
It’s not trendy - it’s timeless.
So if you’ve been thinking about it, this might be your sign. Get the pet portrait. Honour the bond. Add a little more love to your walls.
