The Sporting Dog Oil Painting Series
The goal of this series of sporting dog oil paintings is to capture iconic hunting dog breeds in a realistic style. From the ubiquitous and hungry Labrador to my favourite “velcro dog”, the Brittany, I hope you enjoy this new series!
You can also see what paintings are currently available on my original oils page.
Sporting Dog #1: The Labrador Retriever
Labs are the most popular breed of dog in Canada (according to the CKC), and have consistently held the #1 spot in the US for almost 30 years.
They’re smart, friendly, easy to train (especially with food), and have a great reputation as a lovable family dog. If you have food, you have a new best friend if you’re near a Labrador.
Labrador Retrievers make such good oil painting subjects, I have a whole gallery of them.
Sporting Dog #2: Two Springer Spaniel Paintings
These friendly hunting dogs first started appearing in art as early as the 1600’s. They were used to flush, or “spring” game out of hiding, and their loving, gentle personalities have made them popular pets since. They look soft, and they ARE soft. So soft. Pet one if you get the chance.
Sporting Dog #3: The Golden Retriever—Painted from the Front and 3/4 View
Sporting Dog #4: The Chesapeake Bay Retriever in one Oil Painting
The Chesapeake is a sporting dog hailing from the Mid-Atlantic. Their loyal, upbeat, tireless nature (and nearly waterproof coat )makes them an excellent choice of retriever. If you see a lab that looks curiously curly… you might actually be looking at one of these lovelies!
Sporting Dog #5: The Loyal Beagle
The Beagle is a talented hunting companion, bred around the 1930’s from more ancient beagle- or hound-type dogs to hunt hare. They’re smart dogs, but absolutely singleminded once they’ve caught a scent, and they do come equipped with an excellent sense of smell. The beagle’s even temper and gentleness with children has made it a popular family breed, though their strong-willed independent houndness makes them a challenge to train with commands.
Sporting Dog #6: German Shorthair Pointer
Last But Not Least: #7 the Brittany
Brittanys are affectionate, attentive companions originally bred for bird hunting. They love to be near their people and have earned the nickname “velcro dog” because a Brittany owner can’t go anywhere without this smiling ball of energy following close behind.
Find More Sporting Dog Art
These paintings were created by Zann Hemphill out of her Canadian Pet Portrait Art Studio. If you’re interested in your own custom portrait, get in touch by email: pawsbyzann@gmail.com.
You can see more of her work in the Canadian Pet Painting Portfolio, which includes oil paintings of sporting and other breeds of dogs, as well as cats and horses.
