So, I did a thing.
I turned my corgi into an artist. Not in the “dog-puts-on-glasses-and-paints-a-landscape” kind of way, but more like “here’s some non-toxic paint, let’s see what happens.” I’ve always been a sucker for sentimental crafts, and this time I wanted something extra ridiculous and heart-melting for my wall. Spoiler alert: it’s a field of flowers made entirely from her paw prints.
Before you call the dog police, don’t worry—she loved it. She’s the kind of dog who thinks vet visits are spa days and will do absolutely anything for a biscuit. So this? This was just Tuesday.
Let me walk you through it so you too can join the ranks of dog-assisted crafters.
Materials you’ll need
- One overly cooperative dog (bonus points if they look smug in photos)
- A canvas or thick sheet of paper you’re willing to pretend is art-worthy
- Non-toxic, washable paint (kid-friendly stuff is ideal — or you’ll be washing paws forever)
- A couple of paintbrushes (optional: ones you don’t mind ruining)
- A towel, warm water, and the willingness to get your floor dirty anyway
- Treats. So many treats. Stock up like it’s the apocalypse
How To Make The Dog A Painter
I started by pretending this was going to be easy. I laid out the canvas like some kind of optimistic Pinterest mom and called over my corgi, who came trotting over thinking it was snack time. (Technically, it was.) I dipped a soft brush into the paint and gently applied it to her paw while making enthusiastic noises like, “Ooooh, you’re such a little artist!” She looked confused but flattered. Pro tip: Keep the vibe chill. You want cooperation, not a full-on paw fight.
Okay, here comes the fun/messy/chaotic part. I gently pressed her painted paw onto the canvas. The first print looked like a crime scene. The second one looked like a flower. I celebrated like we’d won an art competition. I made eight prints in total, because at some point she looked at me like, “I agreed to one. Maybe two. What is this, a gallery showing?” Don’t panic if it’s messy. Your dog is not a precision printer. Let it be weird. It’s part of the charm.
After cleaning her paw (with the patience of a saint), I moved on to phase two: “make this look intentional.” I used black paint to dot the centers of the paw prints. Suddenly, they started looking like poppies instead of... smudged regrets. Then I added a few darker red details to give the flowers “depth.” I have no idea what that means in art terms, but it made me feel like I knew what I was doing. Note: One of the dots turned into a splotch so I told myself it was a bee and now it’s my favorite part.
At this point, I was fully committed. I painted some green stems and leaves with way too much concentration for something that started with a paw.
I even tied it all together with a red ribbon at the bottom because, apparently, I think flowers need accessories.
Then I flicked yellow paint across the whole canvas because I saw someone do it on Instagram once. Honestly? It worked. Gave it that “sunny field of flowers painted by a dog” energy. Word of warning: Do not flick paint indoors. Unless you enjoy explaining yellow ceiling dots to guests for the next five years.
Looks awesome, right?.
When everything dried, I proudly held up the canvas next to my dog, who looked mildly embarrassed but accepting. I framed it. I hung it. I admire it daily. Visitors ask where I got it, and I get to say: “Oh, that? My dog made it.” You can’t buy that kind of brag.
Final thoughts from an accidental paw-printing expert
This craft is pure serotonin. It’s weird, messy, and genuinely joyful. And best of all, it gave me a keepsake that’s way more personal than any store-bought print.
If you’ve got a chill dog and a little free time, seriously—do this. Just maybe don’t wear your favorite pants while you do.
Thinking of trying seasonal versions? Like winter paw snowflakes or Valentine’s paw hearts? I’m very tempted.