To feed or not to feed
Trying to pose animals can be challenging but not impossible. Consider posing dogs before feeding them. They will respond better to treats as rewards for putting up with the photo session.

Cats, on the other hand, become more docile after eating and may be more likely to strike the pose that you're looking for with a full stomach.

Keep in mind that the best shots are often those that are not planned. Have a camera handy the next time you go out to play Frisbee with your dog or are near your cat's favourite resting or hiding place.

Red-eye
One effect that can be difficult to avoid is the effects of red-eye or a glowing reflection from your pet's eyes when snapping a photo with the flash on. Try to avoid an eye-to-camera lens angle that will put your pet's eyes in direct line of the camera's built-in flash. Ensure the camera is slightly above, below, or off to one side from your pet's eyes.

Scene modes
Don't forget to use some of the special features on your camera to get a better shot. Image stabilization can help to reduce blur if your pet is moving when the picture is taken.

Special scene modes such as portrait or even self-portrait modes can be good ways to maximize the camera's exposure settings to enhance the shot. If your camera has a self-portrait scene mode (like the Olympus digital cameras), you can get in the shot with your pet by simply holding the camera at arm's length and point it at yourself and your little furry friend to
capture a cute "buddy" shot.