Here is the oil portrait of "Paws", shown in stages.

After reviewing the reference photos I'd taken of Paws, I created four sketches for the clients to choose from that would both show the subject at his best, and make a beautiful painting.
When they decided on their favorite, I transfered the drawing onto a toned canvas.
Next, I created an under painting in warm browns,
added darks and lights,
and built the colors up slowly with translucent layers of paint. This gave the finished portrait depth, and a rich, warm feel.