African Painted Dogs/Wild dogs

As promised, finally trying to finish up some pieces sitting around on my computer. Since January, I have felt rather slow artistically and for at least a month could not even start a piece. This one actually was a flook; the sketch aquired while trying to widdle away some time in the late night in open canvas. It was by no means a perfected sketch (a weakness I need to push myself to work at!) but before I( even finished the sketch I saw the colors/mood I wanted for the piece. I think in part those colors were chosen by my heart's longing for summer evenings. The sun has been scarce in these parts of late, no surprise seeing as we live in the great northwest. Nothing against winter or rain folks, but I think I will always feel like a texan deep on the inside..and as such I missss the sunnnn, warm sunsets and its warmth against my skin.

So, having no real intention of it turning out, I decided to unleash my angst upon this piece and though, even in the end, it is still not lacking flaws..it is a piece I find contentment and peace of mind in.

Some details: I wanted very much for the female to look as the 'guardian', even though the male is embracing her. I wanted her to look as if she was watching the lands for threats and in doing so protecting him while he enjoys the undulating peace of the dwindling day.. Also this is the first time I have painted wild dogs and erm anthros..sooo forgive anatomical flaws and what have you. If they look thin, thats intentional as the painted dog does have thinnnnn limbs.

Size: 5000x4500 pixels at 200 dpi
time taken: ?
Tools: open canvas for sketch, ps for finished product, wacom graphire 3 4x6"
Prints: yes 8x10's via deviant, limited edition large format prints in the future.
watermarked: yes as it is a personal piece and I dooo nooot want to find it stolen. But hopefully the watermark is not over powering.

**please respect the piece and the time and effort placed into it and take the time to full view. Thank you!**