Pet portrait prices do not have one universal average. A quote depends on the medium, finished size, number of pets, detail, and what the artist includes. At PetPortraArt, custom colored-pencil and layered acrylic portraits currently start at $118. Compare the finished artwork, preview process, and delivery timeline along with the price.
Why do pet portrait prices vary?
Medium and materials
A digital file, a print, and a handmade physical portrait are different purchases, even when they all begin with a pet photo. Colored pencil builds fine coat and facial detail on a matte surface; it needs careful framing and protection from moisture. A layered acrylic portrait uses transparent panels to create depth and comes in a metal frame. The look, materials, and work involved are different, so compare the same type of finished piece.
Size, number of pets, and composition
Larger formats give the artist more room for detail and usually require more materials. Adding another pet means balancing separate faces, markings, and proportions in one composition. PetPortraArt can include up to three pets in one portrait; the selected size and arrangement affect the final quote. A simple background also takes less planning than a detailed custom scene.
Time, communication, and approval
A commission includes more than the hours spent drawing or painting. The artist reviews reference photos, plans the composition, works through the details, and prepares the finished piece for delivery. A clear preview and revision stage also takes time, but gives you a chance to request adjustments before the portrait ships.
How to compare custom pet portrait quotes
When comparing pet portraits online, make sure you are comparing like with like. Ask whether the price is for an original handmade piece, a print, or a digital file. Check the finished size, number of pets, frame, shipping, preview, and revision policy. A lower starting price may cover a smaller format or fewer options; a higher quote may include framing, extra subjects, or a more involved process.
Pricing guides from working artists, including Pet-PortraitArtist and Pouka Art, also explain why there is no single price that applies to every commission. Treat their prices as examples of each artist’s own process, not as a universal rate card.
Before ordering, it helps to review how to choose a pet portrait artist and prepare a clear reference photo using our pet photo guide.
PetPortraArt portrait prices and sizes
Current starting prices are $118 for each of these two custom styles:
- Hand-drawn colored pencil pet portrait: 12 × 12, 14 × 14, or 16 × 16 inches. Choose it for a detailed, matte, hand-drawn finish.
- Hand-painted layered acrylic portrait: 8 × 8, 10 × 10, 12 × 12, 12 × 8, or 16 × 8 inches. Transparent layers create a dimensional look, finished with a metal frame.
$118 is the starting price, not a promise that every size or composition costs the same. The final amount depends on the selected options. Each order includes a preview and free revisions before shipping, so you can review the likeness and request changes before the piece is sent.
How long does a portrait commission take?
Current production takes about one to three weeks, depending on the order queue. Shipping is separate and usually takes about four to fourteen business days. For custom pet portraits shipped to Canada, allow for both stages. A pet portrait delivered in one week is not a timeline we can promise for these handmade styles; contact us before ordering if you have a fixed date.
Frequently asked questions
What affects pet portrait prices the most?
The biggest factors are the medium, finished size, number of pets, detail, and what is included in the order. Compare the same specifications before deciding between artists.
Can one custom portrait include more than one pet?
Yes. PetPortraArt supports up to three pets in one piece. Clear reference photos of each animal help the artist preserve their individual markings and expression.
Can I get a custom pet portrait delivered in one week?
Not reliably. Production alone usually takes one to three weeks, and shipping adds about four to fourteen business days. Ask the team about your date before placing an order.
Can I order a custom pet portrait from Canada?
Yes. PetPortraArt ships worldwide through partner workshops. Plan for the production estimate plus transit time, which can vary by destination.
Choose the portrait that suits your budget and home
The best commission is the one whose format, size, and process fit what you want to keep. Start with a clear photo, decide whether you prefer a matte colored-pencil drawing or a dimensional layered acrylic portrait, then compare the full quote and timeline. Explore the colored-pencil portrait and layered acrylic portrait options to see which fits your space.