Custom Pet Portraits

poodle dog custom pet portrait by High Hound Low Hound
custom cat portrait - pet painting of a glamour cat

Hand-Painted Pet Portraits from Your Favorite Photos

Your pets are family. A custom pet portrait is a beautiful way to celebrate their personality, commemorate a beloved companion, or give a deeply meaningful gift to someone who adores their dog or cat.

At High Hound Low Hound, artist Karen Hesselbach creates custom pet portraits painted by hand in acrylic, transforming your favorite pet photos into one-of-a-kind artwork. Each portrait is thoughtfully designed to capture the expression, spirit, and charm that make your pet unique.

Portraits are available in multiple canvas sizes and can feature one or two pets, personalized backgrounds, or special motifs.
Whether you’re commissioning a portrait of your own pet or gifting one to a fellow pet lover, the result is a timeless piece of art that celebrates the animals who make our lives better.

A Pet Portrait Artist Who Understands Pets

Karen Hesselbach is a professional artist and designer with more than 25 years of creative experience. Her whimsical, expressive painting style focuses on the joyful personality of each pet, creating artwork that feels lively, heartfelt, and full of character.

Karen specializes in:

Each painting is created with high-quality acrylic paints on stretched canvas, ensuring vibrant color and long-lasting durability.

Karen did a fantastic job capturing my dog, Baxter, via a custom dog portrait. She sought specific feedback for customization, ensuring the ‘essence’ of Baxter was captured.

—Past Client

Portrait Options & Pricing

Portrait pricing varies depending on canvas size and the number of pets included.

Typical sizes include:

  • 5” x 5”
  • 8” x 10”
  • 11” x 14”
  • 16” x 20”
  • 20” x 20”

Portraits can feature:

  • One or two pets
  • Personalized background colors
  • Decorative motifs (florals, seasonal themes, etc.)
  • Custom compositions based on multiple photos

Prices vary depending on the canvas size and complexity of the portrait.

Memorial Pet Portraits

For many clients, a custom pet portrait is a way to honor a beloved companion who has passed.

Karen approaches memorial portraits with special care and attention, creating paintings that celebrate the love and memories shared with your pet.

Many clients choose to include meaningful elements such as favorite colors, symbolic flowers, or soft background motifs.

Karen captured Fiona's spirit perfectly... I can't wait to have her paint my boy next!

—Past Client

The Commission Process

Ordering a custom pet portrait is simple.

Step 1: Share Your Photos

Send one or more photos of your pet. Clear images showing the pet’s face and personality work best.

Step 2: Choose Your Size

Select your preferred canvas size and indicate whether the portrait will include one or two pets.

Step 3: Customize

Choose background colors, motifs, or any special details you’d like included.

Step 4: Painting Begins

Karen will create your portrait by hand using acrylic paint on canvas.

Step 5: Delivery

Your finished portrait will be carefully packaged and shipped anywhere in the United States.

The perfect tribute to my Nico! Beautifully done with the cutest addition of sparkle and sass — exactly what I dreamed of for a custom piece of art.

—Past Client

Commission Your Custom Pet Portrait

Ready to turn your favorite pet photo into a one-of-a-kind painting? Explore custom dog portraits or custom cat paintings or contact Karen to begin your custom pet portrait commission.