Marilé Sadler
Paintings of dogs, working dogs most of all, and the bond they share with the women beside them.
I paint in southern Africa in oil, watercolour and mixed media. Mostly dogs, especially working dogs, and the quiet partnership between a dog and a woman. Now and then, a flower. Every original is one of a kind.
A portrait of your dog
Painted from your photographs in oil or watercolour. A few commissions are taken each month.
Commission a portraitOriginals
One-of-a-kind, hand-painted works in oil, watercolour and mixed media. Framing is not included unless discussed; shipping is quoted on enquiry.
Prints
Coming soon
Giclée prints on 310gsm cotton rag, signed and numbered in editions of 50. Shipped rolled, worldwide, within 10 working days.
Dog portrait commissions
A portrait painted from your own photographs, in oil or watercolour. I take on a small number of commissions each month so that each one gets the time it needs.
Oil on canvas
Oil on canvas
Watercolour · A3
Watercolour · A5
How it works
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Commission prices
South African Rand. Framing not included unless discussed. Valid as of September 2026.
- Turnaround
- Depends on the medium, size and my availability. I'll give you an estimated date when we agree the details.
- Deposit
- 50% to book your place; balance on completion, before shipping
Enquire about a portrait
I reply within two working days.
Send me a message with:
- Your dog's name and breed
- The size and medium you'd like
- A few reference photos — sharp, well-lit, taken at eye level
About
I'm Marilé Sadler, an oil and watercolour painter based in southern Africa. I paint dogs — mostly working dogs, the ones I've spent the last thirteen years living and working alongside — and the bond between them and the women who handle them. Now and then I paint whatever else takes hold of me.
Before the paintbrush there were dogs, and before the dogs there were falcons. My husband and I started as falconers, moved into pet training, and eventually into protection dogs, which became both our business and our sport. I've competed in PSA since 2017 and now judge it. That's why I paint dogs the way I do: I've watched thousands of them work, and I'm after the intent in the eyes and the set of the ears, not just the likeness.
Alongside painting, I have the privilege of working with these remarkable dogs every day, training them for families as trusted companions that will also keep them safe.
Every piece is painted by hand at home. Originals are one of a kind. If you'd like your own dog painted, see the Commissions page.
Contact
For enquiries about originals or commissions, the quickest way to reach me is WhatsApp. Email works just as well.