When we look at our pooches, we sometimes see proper princes and princesses. We sometimes think, “Wow, we’d really like to immortalize our canine friends in an oil painting so we can hang it over our mantels to admire forever.” But we can’t really paint — especially not with oils — so what are we to do?

We can always call on the talents of artist Valerie Leonard, who expertly combines photos of people’s beloved canines with classical paintings to create seamless, timeless, amusing images.

When loving pet parents wants to get portraits done, just send Valerie a photo of your dog and she’ll discuss a variety of concepts with you. She uses her computer to sketch portraits, which helps her get the perfect pose. (And no, the dogs are not dressed up in old-timey outfits and made to sit for hours.)

The result is nothing short of a masterpiece.

We particularly love the gestures of the dogs’ paws — they are so perfectly demure and dainty, giving the dogs an air of dignity.

The paintings take a slightly strange turn when dogs posed as humans have other dogs with them as props. It’s kind of like the difference between Goofy and Pluto — they’re both dogs, but why does only one of them wear clothes?

Want to commission your own canine classic? Check out Valerie’s pricing here.

All images via Valerie Leonard’s website