Pet Portrait of Scruffy, Chihuahua

Here's the original. I'll crop out the other cute little puppy and simplify the background.

Pet Portrait of Scruffy in Colored Pencil

Click image above for larger view.

Here's what Scruffy's owner had to say:
"You make it sound easy, but "Scruffy" is one of the most professionally skillful portraits (of an animal or a person) I've ever seen! You have an incredible technique and ability with colored pencils. All the color and lines you have in the piece work together so beautifully. He's so beautifully orchestrated and alive. Molly will be enjoying this original work for years to come." –Mark
Scruffy looks like he's listening intently to be called. I'll keep the background simple but interesting to make Scruffy pop right out of it.
Stage 2
The beginning of the drawing! He looks so inquisitive and spunky! I can't wait to really dig into this one!