Sensitive – Protective – Shy

This is Skipper. My long-haired German Shepherd, my buddy, my shadow. And honestly? Sometimes also my biggest challenge.

He's Defo Not The Easiest Dog

Skipper is not the easiest dog. He is so sensitive that life often overwhelms him. He is easily startled, does not trust anyone, and senses moods with great precision. That makes him incredibly loving, but also vulnerable. His sensitivity manifests itself in fear-aggression, not because he is “mean”, but because he often does not know how to show what he feels. He does not know what is expected of him or how to deal with a situation he finds scary. And as soon as he doesn't understand a situation, he chooses the ‘safe’ option: barking, creating distance, protecting himself. His protective nature makes that even stronger. He wants to do well. He wants to protect himself, but he also wants to protect me from any situation he doesn't understand. And since he doesn't really know how ... he barks. And here is why he barks a lot.

Relocated TWICE Before He Was 1,5 Years Old!

At the same time, he is shy. We heard that he has always been like this. Even as a puppy, and that has remained. It was for his previous owners the main reason that he had to be relocated, twice! Before he was one and a half years old, we were his third owners already. And that insecurity also left its traces on Skipper. He wants contact, wants to be close, but often doesn't dare. His insecurity makes everything doubly complicated — for himself, but also for those who try to understand him. Yet we have never had any doubts about his place in our lives. He is our dog. Our special needs-sensitive dog. We try to guide him through all the obstacles life has, and we've come a long way. Lately, I've not been painting very much, but much more pyrography ... and I thought it was about time that I created a work of art, dedicated to Skipper. I wanted to capture him as he is: with everything that entails.

Never Rush!

As you know, maybe, pyrography is drawing with fire, by slowly burning the wood. It is an intensive technique that requires patience. But that is precisely why it suits Skipper so well. We can't rush Skipper, he has to be guided through life with patience. One step forward, two steps back. Three steps forward and one step back. Just never rush! Pyrography is also something I can't rush. Every line, every shadow demands attention. Just like Skipper does. His fur is built up hair by hair, every expression carefully formed. And when his face was there, I knew it was right.

Say It With Flowers

Then the part that came about almost automatically began: the flower wreath. Not just for decoration, but consciously chosen. Every flower tells something about who Skipper is.

The poppy stands for strength in vulnerability. It is a delicate flower that you see popping up everywhere between the stones, and yet it remains proudly upright. That is Skipper in a nutshell. He may be afraid, but he never gives up. He tries again every day.

Then the violets. They symbolize loyalty, love and sensitivity. Skipper may be difficult to understand, but his loyalty is unconditional. He feels it immediately when I feel different. He doesn't leave my side. No fuss, just being there. His presence is his comfort.

And then the forget-me-nots — small, but full of meaning. They stand for memory, for wanting to be seen. For the desire to belong, even if you don't dare. That's Skipper like that. He wants contact, wants you to understand him... but finds it scary to show himself. Still, he does it. In his own way. Carefully, tentatively, but bravely.

Bright Like Skipper Is

I painted the flowers with bright watercolor pencils, so that the work wouldn't be too heavy. Colorful, airy, a bit dreamy. As if he is surrounded by his bright world. The baroque frame around it was also deliberately chosen. Not because he has to look ‘royal’, but because it feels like an ode. As if this is not an ordinary portrait, but a tribute to his complexity. The frame is subtly gilded, just enough to give it a little shine.

At the bottom is the banner with three words: SENSITIVE – PROTECTIVE – SHY. That’s Skipper. Maybe not the dog that everyone understands, but a dog with character, with depth. And above all: with a heart that beats, even if it sometimes goes crazy.

A Celebration Of My Special Dog

This work is not a memorial — Skipper is here, full of life. But this work is intended as a celebration of his life. A snapshot of who he is now. Not perfect, but real. Because being sensitive is not a weakness. And shyness is allowed to exist. Just like loyalty, protectiveness, and yes, that barking too. Everything is part of who Skipper is.

Every Animal Deserves To Be Immortalized

I hope this portrait evokes recognition. Maybe you have such an animal too — one that doesn’t color within the lines, but is deep in your heart. Then you know exactly what I mean.

If you ever want a portrait of your own dog or cat burned in wood, with flowers, symbolism, and everything that makes them special… You know where to find me!

But this one? This one is mine. And it will stay forever.