I am always happy to receive a commission for a wild dog pup sculpture. This is perhaps not surprising, as wild dogs are my favourite animal. I love spending time with them in the field and sculpting them in the studio. They are just capable of so much expression, something most dog owners can probably relate to.

Wild dogs have such a zest for life and, at the risk of humanising them, they always seem to look happy. I don’t think I will ever lose the thrill of seeing the elusive painted dog on a game drive. And it is always such a privilege to witness one of these beautiful but critically endangered animals in the wild.

The first time I visited Mfuwe Lodge in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park, I brought a wild dog pup sculpture to present to the Lodge. The pup has sat in the middle of the lounge ever since, surveying guests and elephants alike (seeing as both are known to walk regularly through the lobby!).

Recently I was contact by an American visitor to the Lodge, who wanted a wild dog pup sculpture to remind her of her visit and the incredible experience of viewing wild dogs in the wild. Of course, I was happy to accept. After all, it is always excited to be commissioned to model my favourite animal.

Having obtained all the relevant details from my new client, I set about making two pups which would work well together (and fit perfectly onto her coffee table). My client wanted two sitting wild dog pups fully engaged with the sights, sounds and smells of the African bush. As always when working on an animal sculpture commission, I sent regular photo updates of the wild dog pup sculptures. This provides me with invaluable feedback whilst affording the client a unique input into the creative process.

He looks great…like he is intently listening to something…very exciting! Thank you, can’t wait to get them home!

Please contact me if you would like to see your own favourite animal brought to life in clay!