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Dog portrait of Lattie the terrier amongst flowers by Naomi Jenkin Art.

When to Choose a Detailed Background for Your Pet Portrait

A guide to help you choose.

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A pet portrait is a wonderful way to celebrate your beloved companion and create a lasting memory of them. One of the key decisions when commissioning a custom pet portrait is whether to include a detailed background. While some portraits shine with a simple, neutral background that keeps the focus solely on the pet, others truly come to life when set in a meaningful location. So, how do you decide? Here’s a guide to help you choose the right background for your dog portrait, cat portrait, or even a horse portrait.

When a Detailed Background is the Perfect Choice

For many pet owners, their pet is closely associated with a particular place. Maybe it’s where they loved to spend their time, or maybe it’s a setting that holds special memories for you. In these cases, incorporating a detailed background can add a deeper emotional connection to the portrait.

Their Favourite Place

Some pets have a spot where they are happiest. A dog who loves nothing more than bounding across the beach could be beautifully captured with a backdrop of sand and sea. A cat who spends hours sunbathing in the garden could be portrayed lounging in their favourite sun-dappled spot. Horses, too, often have a special connection with their surroundings—a portrait of your horse could be set against a peaceful backdrop of their paddock, or feature the countryside where you often ride.

Portrait of Hannah the English Springer Spaniel drawn in pastels by Naomi Jenkin ArtPortrait of “Hannah” the English Springer Spaniel

A Meaningful Memory

Perhaps you always think of your pet in a particular place—maybe you cherish memories of your moorland walks with them, or smile at the thought of them curled up on their favourite chair. Including these elements in the background can make the portrait even more sentimental, capturing not just their likeness but also the essence of your life together.

Pet portrait of Sonny the Staffy by Naomi Jenkin ArtPortrait of “Sonny” the Staffy who loved the beach

An Active or Working Pet

If your pet participated in activities such as swimming, field trials, or horse riding events, a background that reflects their achievements can be a great choice. A spaniel in a field, a retriever near a lake, or a horse in a show jumping event all tell a story of their passion and purpose. This type of background highlights what made them unique and how they spent their happiest moments.

When a Simple Background Works Best

While a detailed background can enhance some portraits, there are times when a minimal approach is more fitting.

Focusing on Expression and Detail

A neutral or softly blended background ensures that the viewer’s attention is drawn straight to the pet’s face, highlighting their eyes, expression, and the fine details of their fur. If your goal is to capture the soul and personality of your pet without distraction, a simple background is often the best option.

Timeless and Elegant Look

A classic, softly shaded background can create a timeless portrait that fits beautifully in any home. This is especially great for head-and-shoulders portraits, where the emphasis is entirely on your pet’s character and likeness.

When Combining Multiple Pets

If you’re commissioning a pet portrait featuring more than one pet, a simple background can help unify the composition. This way, the focus remains on their bond and interaction rather than on a specific setting. However, if the pets shared a special place together—such as a garden or a favourite walking path—this could be subtly incorporated to enhance their story.

Two dogs, Cotton and Bella, posing with their pet portrait, drawn by Naomi Jenkin Art“Cotton and Bella”

Making the Right Choice for Your Portrait

When deciding on the background, think about what feels most true to your pet. Do you picture them in a particular place every time you think of them? Or do you simply want to see their face and expression without any distractions? There’s no right or wrong answer—only what feels right for you.

As an artist, I work closely with my clients to help make these decisions. We’ll discuss your pet’s personality, their favourite places, and what setting (if any) might complement their portrait. Whether you choose a detailed landscape or a subtle background, the most important thing is that the portrait captures your pet’s spirit in a way that resonates with you.

If you’re considering a pet portrait and need guidance on choosing the perfect background, please get in touch—I’d love to help bring your vision to life!

Examples of Pet Portraits With Detailed Backgrounds

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