Custom Pet Portrait Cost and What Affects the Price
If you are planning a hand-painted pet portrait, cost is usually the first question. There is no single number that fits every commission, but the factors that drive the price are clear. Here is what a custom pet portrait costs with me, what changes the quote, and what is included.
Starting prices by size
These starting prices match the size guide used across my commission pages:
| Size | Starting price (USD) | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Small, up to 16×20 in | From $2,000 | One pet, simple background |
| Medium, around 24×30 in | From $3,200 | One or two subjects, more detail |
| Large, 30×40 in or bigger | From $4,800 | Multiple pets, statement pieces |
Commissions start at $2,000 USD. Extra pets or people and detailed backgrounds raise the quote. You always receive a quote before any deposit is paid.
What affects the price
- Size. A larger canvas takes more paint and more hours.
- Number of pets or people. Each extra subject adds time, because each likeness has to be painted carefully.
- Background and detail. A plain background costs less than a detailed room, outdoor scene or costume.
- Complexity of the coat. Very detailed fur patterns and markings take longer to resolve on the canvas.
For a broader look at how portrait pricing works across people and pets, see how much a custom oil portrait costs.
What is included
- A portrait painted by hand in oil or acrylic from your reference photo
- A composition sketch for your approval before painting begins
- Progress photos during the work
- Final approval from you before shipping
- Careful packing and shipping worldwide, including to the USA, Canada, Australia, the UK and the UAE
A 50% deposit starts the work and the balance is due before shipping. I accept PayPal or Wise.
Timeline
Most pet portraits take 4 to 8 weeks from the deposit. Larger or more complex paintings can take longer, and I will tell you the timeline in your quote.
Choosing a size
Small works well for a single pet and a simple background. Medium gives more room for two subjects or richer detail. Large suits several pets or a painting meant as a wall statement. If you are unsure, read how to choose the right size for your portrait and tell me about the wall space when you request a quote.
Photos and memorial portraits
Clear, well-lit photos help. Soft daylight, eye-level framing and a sharp focus on the eyes make the likeness stronger. See how to photograph your pet for a portrait and what photo to send for a pet portrait. Memorial portraits of a pet who has passed away are also possible from the photos you have; send what you have and I will say honestly what is possible before you commit. More on that process is in pet memorial portraits: how it works.
How to get a quote
Send your best photo or photos, the size you have in mind, and any ideas for pose, background or costume. I reply with size, price and timeline. You can start from the pet portraits page or the general custom oil portrait from photo page.
How a pet commission usually runs
Send your best photo or photos, plus any ideas for pose, background or costume. I send a quote with size, price and timeline. A 50% deposit starts the work. You approve a composition sketch before painting begins, then see progress photos while the portrait is painted by hand in oil or acrylic. You give final approval before shipping, and the finished painting is packed and sent to you. That same flow is described on the pet portraits service page and mirrors the steps on my main commission form.
Playful options such as a costume portrait are possible within reason when we agree them in the sketch. Memorial work uses the photos you have, even when they are older or imperfect, and I will say what is realistic before you commit.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a custom pet portrait cost?
Pet portraits start at $2,000 USD for a small painting (up to 16×20 in), $3,200 for a medium (around 24×30 in) and $4,800 for a large one (30×40 in or bigger). The final price depends on size, the number of pets or people and the level of detail. You always get a quote before any deposit is paid.
What affects the price of a pet portrait?
Size, the number of pets (or people) in the painting, and the level of detail in the background and coat all change the quote. Extra subjects and detailed backgrounds raise the price.
How long does a pet portrait take?
Usually 4 to 8 weeks from the deposit. Larger or more complex paintings can take longer, and the timeline is confirmed in your quote.
How do I pay for a commission?
A 50% deposit starts the work and the balance is due before shipping. I accept PayPal or Wise.
Can you paint more than one pet in the same painting?
Often, yes. Tell me which pets and how you would like them arranged, and I will confirm what is possible in the quote.
Related
- Pet portraits — dogs, cats and companions from $2,000
- How much does a custom oil portrait cost?
- How to photograph your pet for a portrait
- Best photo for a pet portrait: what to send
- Custom oil portrait from photo