The perfect photo

This example is a poor reference photo, unless of course you wanted a painting like this.

The subject is too far away.

The subject is looking away from the camera.

The quality of this photograph is bad. It isn't in focus and the details are lost.

The photo should be in focus and crisp.

The best light is natural light.

This will allow me to see the true colours of the subjects eyes, fur, skin etc.

Not always necessary to take the photo outside if taken by a well lit window for example. 

Try to get a little help from someone to temp or distract your pet to sit still and strike a pose.

You should not need the flash if your photo is taken outside or near a natural light source.

Natural light.

Crisp and in focus.

Eye level.

Looking away from the camera or directly is personal preference.