A gravestone for a dog isn’t just a stone with an inscription — it’s a decision that lasts for decades. The material, shape and installation method depend on the dog’s size, the burial spot, and whether you want a portrait or just the name. We break the choice down into concrete criteria, so the decision is simple.
Step 1: Material – Why Black Granite Wins
For pet gravestones, black granite (Swedish, Impala) is the most common choice — and that’s no accident. Dark, polished stone gives the best contrast for a diamond-engraved portrait and a sandblasted inscription, is practically non-absorbent, and doesn’t lose colour from sun or frost. Light-coloured granites (e.g. Strzegom) work well if you’re after a different look — but a portrait on light stone is poorly visible, so in that case a porcelain photo is a better choice than engraving.
Step 2: Shape – Classic Slab or Boulder?
- Rectangular slab — the most versatile option, giving the most space for an inscription, date and portrait. Works well for any size of dog.
- Granite heart — a popular emotional choice, less surface for text, but a strong visual effect.
- Natural boulder — looks the most organic in a garden setting, blends well with the planting around the burial spot.
- Bone or paw shape — a shape that directly references the animal, often chosen by owners who want the gravestone’s form to speak for itself.
Step 3: Size – Match It to the Spot, Not the Dog
Contrary to appearances, the size of the gravestone doesn’t have to match the size of the dog. A small dog can have a large slab, readable from a distance — and vice versa. What matters most is the available space in the garden and how much content you want to fit: just a name and dates will fit on a small 20×15 cm slab, while a portrait with a longer epitaph needs at least 30×20 cm.
Step 4: Inscription or Portrait – or Both
We create the inscription using the sandblasting method — the letters are permanently recessed into the stone and filled with paint, giving readability for decades, regardless of weather. If you want to include an image of the dog, we use diamond needle engraving — a technique that physically “strikes” points into the stone’s surface, reproducing the features and shading from the photo. It’s not a print — it won’t fade or chip off.
Step 5: Installation – What to Keep in Mind
It’s worth placing the slab on a support wedge (Installation 1), which ensures proper water runoff and prevents it settling crookedly into the mud after rain. You’ll find installation details in our Installation Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete a gravestone with a portrait?
We typically prepare the design and visualisation within 24 hours of receiving the photo — you approve the design before engraving begins.
Can I add a second dog to the same slab in the future?
Yes, if you plan for it from the start — it’s worth mentioning this when ordering, so we can leave the right amount of space in the layout.
Which shape works best on a lawn, and which on a gravel plot?
Boulders and organic shapes blend better into a lawn; classic rectangular slabs suit a gravel plot or paved area better.
Not sure which model suits your situation?
Write to us with a photo of the spot and your dog — we’ll suggest a specific model from our range instead of leaving you with a general guide.