How to Draw a Pet Dog: Mastering Perspective and Proportions

This article documents this week's class demonstration on how to draw a dog's head and shares simple drawing steps.

Beagle sketching class demonstration​​​​​​​ 

Here are the records of this week's class demonstration. The second image introduces a simple drawing of a dog. If you're interested, keep reading! By the way, I found out while scrolling through Instagram that Snoopy's prototype is actually a Beagle. I thought it was a Sheepdog or Poodle. I was so surprised that I decided to draw one.

● Basic Structure - Head Shape:

We can simplify the dog's head as primarily consisting of a circle (head) and a trapezoid (snout). In the bottom right corner, you can see the basic shapes simplified from two different angles. When drawing, pay attention to the relationship between the sizes of the circle and the trapezoid.

Build on the basic shapes by gradually adding details such as the eyes, nose, and ears. If the dog you're referencing has a turned side face, note that the face will appear larger on the side facing forward and smaller on the turned side.

●Perspective and Proportion - Perspective from Different Angles:

Provided are front and two half-side angles. If you want to draw the eye sockets, eyes, and nose, you can refer to the perspective lines in the drawing. This helps ensure the shapes and positions stay consistent.

I hope this structural introduction helps you understand how to draw a dog. If there are any subjects or drawing techniques you would like to see, feel free to leave a comment or message me. Happy drawing!

Other Related Animal Sketching Articles:

How to Draw a Koi Fish with a Pencil: Fish Sketching Tutorial

How to Draw Birds: Master Sketching Body Structure

How to Draw Primates: Proportions, Anatomy, Dynamic Poses

Sketching Lions: Simplifying Head and Torso with Basic Shapes


Han
Han

Chiu Po-Han - drawing instructor | Art studio teacher | Independent contractor |

Experience: 2017–2022: Instructor at Panier Art Studio for five years 2023–Present: Current instructor at Xin Shou Xiang Ying Art Studio 2023: Guest instructor for the Fine Arts Program at Fengxin High School

About Me: I specialize in guiding students to develop their interest in learning fundamental drawing and watercolor techniques. I also assist students in successfully applying to art and design schools.

I firmly believe that through the process of creating art, students can learn the logical steps of drawing, refine their techniques, and cultivate perseverance. Drawing is not just a skill but an enriching and worthwhile investment of one's time and energy.