Help with cartoonization of a real animal (updated)

[Davroth]

Hello there, fellows

I was wondering if someone could give me some pointers on how to draw a MLP version of a german shepherd dog. If someone could sketch up something, I'd be most grateful. I can draw well enough for my own needs, but I can't come up with something that looks good or true to the style of FiM.

Anyway, for reference, here's a video of the kind of dog I mean:

Thanks in advance, Davroth

[Hippo]

I would definitely use Winona as a template for this kind of dog.

Winona is guessed to be a border collie, a relatively smart dog that had herding skills. However, border collies have longer hair than shepherd dogs and floppy ears instead of pointy. I would try making a Winona with less hair randomization (like the ones on her tail and elbows) and maybe make the dog a little larger in size compared to Winona. Other than that, it's about the same dog.

If you'd like, I can try tracing out my own template and see if you like it. It may take a while for me to do, as my free time is limited.

[Davroth]

In my arrogance I actually forgot to look up what border collies look like IRL. You are absolutely right. I will try to mock something up myself right now, and put it here, if I'm not happy with it.

[Davroth]

Alright, so here is what I got. I do think it kinda looks like german shepherd dog, maybe more like a particular young one. What you guys think?

[Hippo]

Looks great. MLPFiM style cartoon characters have that 'younger' look. Besides, Winona looks more like a weasel than a dog, lol. Nice job! Does s/he have a name?

[Davroth]

Well thank you.

Since I'm terrible with names, it's Blacky for the time being.