Melanie&Nicholas

Oil and Pencil Pet Portraits from Photos

Vibrant oil painting of two dogs, a fluffy white dog and a brown dog, symbolizing pet portraits by Nicholas Beall.
Dog Oil Pet Portraits by Nicholas Beall

Dog Oil Pet Portraits Gallery

Welcome to Nicholas's Dog Oil Pet Portraits Gallery. All of the dog portraits below have been traditionally hand-painted in oils on linen canvas by Nicholas. He is a professionally trained animal artist, painting dog portraits for commission for over 28 years.

He has fine-tuned his oil painting skills to produce stunning dog paintings for clients worldwide. We hope you enjoy viewing our dog portraits gallery. If you would like to commission Nicholas to paint an oil portrait of your dog, you are more than welcome to message me at any time.

Luxury unboxing of a pet portrait with delicate tissue paper, a satin ribbon, and accompanying printed materials.
Your Luxury Unboxing Experience

The Unboxing Experience

Opening your portrait should feel as special as receiving it — and we take great care to make sure it does.

From the moment you untie the ribbon and peel back the tissue paper, your portrait is presented as a luxury gift — because it is. Every detail of our packaging has been thoughtfully designed to elevate the experience: from our thank-you card and printed inserts to the beautiful wrapping and presentation. It’s more than a delivery — it’s the start of an emotional connection with the artwork. Whether it’s for yourself or a loved one, this unboxing moment helps mark the occasion and celebrate your pet in the most meaningful way.

A beautiful array of oil portraits of various dog breeds, elegantly framed, by Nicholas Beall.
An artist's studio with canvases prepared for oil paintings, ready for pet portraits.
In the Studio

Where Your Portrait Begins

Every pet portrait starts with careful canvas preparation — right here in our studio.

This is where the magic begins. From custom-stretched canvases to protective wrapping materials, we prepare everything by hand before a single brushstroke is made. Whether you’ve commissioned a small sketch or a large oil portrait, your artwork receives the same level of care and attention from start to finish. This photo gives a little peek into the studio space where each pet portrait journey begins — and where your beloved dog, cat, or horse will soon come to life in oils.

A collection of framed dog oil portraits in various styles, painted by Nicholas Beall.
A client's dog, Spyder, curiously inspecting its newly painted, unframed oil portrait.
Caught in the Act

Do Dogs Recognize Themselves in Paintings?

We’re not sure — but Spyder certainly seemed to think something special was going on.

This photo shows one of our lovely clients holding up her newly arrived oil portrait while deciding on the perfect frame. But it was Spyder’s reaction that caught everyone by surprise. He usually ignores TV, mirrors, and photos… but he stood and stared directly at his own portrait. Whether he recognized himself or simply sensed the attention in the room, it’s a reminder that these portraits are more than just art — they carry meaning, memory, and presence. We can help you decide on framing too, or simply deliver your portrait ready for you to choose a frame that suits your space perfectly.

A beautiful, framed oil portrait of a golden retriever, showcasing Nicholas Beall's commission work.
An oil painting of three Labradors (Zizou, Gingko, and Rover) commissioned for a holiday home, showcasing a multi-dog portrait.
Holiday Home Portrait

Pet Portraits for Your Home Away From Home

We’re thrilled with this painting of three Labradors: Zizou, Gingko, and Rover, set in Switzerland. This impressive oil painting was commissioned by John Rea for his holiday residence.

Nicholas worked entirely from multiple reference photographs supplied by John, creating a composition that perfectly suited the space. Whether you’d like a single portrait or a series for your second home, we can help you design something unique and personal. We can also arrange professional prints of the painting, ideal if you'd like to display your portrait in more than one location.

A collection of beautifully framed oil portraits of various dog breeds, painted by Nicholas Beall.
Two dogs, a Beagle and another breed, featured in a detailed oil portrait with a background, held by happy clients.
Client Multi-Dog Portrait

Designing Two Dog Portraits with Backgrounds

You don't need a perfect photo — just send us clear images and we'll create the rest.

We often paint two or more dogs together in one portrait, even if they were never photographed side by side. Simply send us your favorite photos of each dog and any reference for the background you'd like. We'll create a full design mock-up for you to approve before we begin your hand-painted oil portrait, making sure everything is just right. It's a seamless way to bring your pets together in one timeless artwork.

A collection of diverse, beautifully framed oil dog portraits by artist Nicholas Beall, showcasing various breeds and styles.
A memorial oil portrait of Lexi, a beloved dog, displayed alongside framed ashes, creating a touching tribute.
In Loving Memory

Memorial Portraits to Remember a Beloved Dog

A hand-painted oil portrait can be a meaningful way to remember and honor your dog’s life.

This portrait of Lexi was commissioned by her family as a lasting tribute. Framed with care and placed beside her memorial, it now brings comfort and connection each time they see her familiar face. The painting is based on their favorite photo, capturing Lexi’s unique expression with warmth and realism. Whether you have one photo or several, we can create a portrait that brings your memories to life. Many of our clients commission memorial portraits after their pet has passed — it’s never too late to celebrate their place in your heart and home.

A detailed, framed oil portrait of a black Labrador by Nicholas Beall, highlighting fine brushwork.
A man smiling while holding a framed oil painting of his dog, Toby, by artist Nicholas Beall.
A Unique Gift

Gifts for Men

Buying gifts for men can be difficult — especially when they don't 'need' anything. A custom pet portrait is a special and thoughtful gift, perfect for any special occasion.

This photo features Toby's portrait, which Debbie commissioned for her husband, Neil. It now holds pride of place in their home. A pet portrait is something unexpected and far more personal than the usual gadgets or gift cards. It’s a meaningful tribute, beautifully created, and something that can be treasured forever. Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, or just because, it’s the kind of gift that truly lasts.

A close-up of a framed oil portrait of a Golden Retriever, showcasing the texture and detail of the painting.
A series of five custom oil portraits of various dogs, elegantly displayed on a stairwell wall within a home, by Nicholas Beall.
Collector's Display

Curating a Legacy Through Portraiture

Transform your home into a gallery of cherished memories with a curated collection of pet portraits.

Renowned collector Harlan Crow commissioned Nicholas Beall to create five oil portraits of his family's beloved dogs, now elegantly displayed along the stairwell of his Dallas residence. Each painting not only captures the unique essence of the pets but also contributes to a cohesive and meaningful art collection within the home.

Whether you're looking to commemorate multiple pets, celebrate different life stages, or simply appreciate the artistry of custom portraits, we can collaborate to design a series that reflects your vision. From selecting the perfect compositions to choosing frames that complement your interior, we're here to guide you through every step.

A beautiful, ornate gold-framed oil portrait of a black dog by Nicholas Beall, displayed elegantly.
Jen smiling joyfully while holding a surprise oil portrait of her dogs, Shadow and Moose, delivered to the USA.
A Perfect Surprise

Surprise Portraits That Make an Unforgettable Gift

There’s nothing quite like the moment someone opens a surprise portrait of their dogs.

This portrait of Shadow and Moose was commissioned as a surprise gift for Jen and shipped safely to the USA. Her reaction says it all. Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, or just because, a hand-painted pet portrait is a thoughtful and completely unique way to show someone how much you care. We can work discreetly with you behind the scenes and even help with timing, packaging, and international delivery to keep it a secret until the big reveal.

A close-up of a framed, vibrant oil portrait of a Golden Retriever by Nicholas Beall, showing detailed brushstrokes.
A happy client holding a framed oil portrait of their bulldog, Remington, in a beautiful outdoor setting in Hawaii.
Worldwide Delivery

We Work with Pet Lovers Around the World

Whether you’re in the UK or across the globe, we can create a portrait for you.

This stunning oil painting of **Remington** was commissioned by Tom and Patti in **Hawaii**. We’ve worked with clients from all over the world, including the USA, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Hong Kong, Singapore, France, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, Sweden, Norway, and, of course, here in the UK. If you're thinking of commissioning a portrait and would like to know about shipping costs or delivery times to your location, just get in touch — we’re always happy to help.

A collection of diverse, beautifully framed oil dog portraits by artist Nicholas Beall, highlighting various breeds and artistic styles.
Nicholas Beall, the artist, holding a finished oil portrait of a cat in his studio, demonstrating his work.
Nicholas with a Cat Portrait

Meet the Artist – Nicholas Beall

Nicholas paints pet portraits from his garden art studio in rural west Wales. Every portrait Nicholas paints is a one-of-a-kind piece, created with care and precision.

Nicholas trained for four years at Falmouth Art College and Bournemouth Art College. He learned under a multitude of artists and has built on that knowledge over the last 28 years. He takes time to understand each animal’s personality through photos and stories, working closely with every client to get it just right.

Working from his art studio every day, Nicholas paints each portrait by hand using all traditional techniques. Visit his about page to read more about his background.

A serene landscape with various framed traditional oil pet portraits displayed, illustrating the artistry.
A smiling family posing with their dog, Sonny, and a beautiful framed oil portrait of another dog, Gabby, by Nicholas Beall, displayed in their home.
A Family Portrait – with Sonny

Portraits for Families

Pets aren’t just animals, they are part of the family. A portrait is a way to celebrate the love and life you all share.

This family commissioned an oil portrait of their dog **Gabby**, to hang proudly in their home. It now sits at the heart of their house. Whether it’s to mark a new chapter, a special occasion, or simply to honor everyday joy, a portrait becomes part of your story.

We work with families all over the world to create something meaningful. Some portraits are gifts, others are planned as a surprise, but every one of them captures something deeply personal. If your pet means the world to your family, we would love to paint them for you.

A serene outdoor setting featuring an elegant display of framed traditional oil pet portraits by Nicholas Beall, blending art with nature.
Commission a Portrait

Send us your favourite photos of your dog, cat, or horse and we will help you choose the perfect one for your portrait. We are happy to chat about any ideas you have for a portrait. We can’t wait to get started!