I apologize for the lengthy response, in advance.
What do you think of these photos?
#1. Just to be clear, this picture is not taken at eye-level; you’re still shooting from above. Also, the hose in the background is distracting.
However, good job on the position of the dog in the frame. The dog is looking “into” the picture rather than “out” of the picture. Also, it’s great that the dog is centered on the right-hand third line, rather than being centered. (rule of thirds)
#2. When I look at this picture, my eyes automatically see (in order) #1. The tree. #2. The bright, bright sky. #3. The wall/gate at the back right. #4. The dog. In theory, all those distracting elements could be arranged differently, but as is, the picture needs quite a bit of re-thinking and re-arranging. Keep trying.
#3. Gorgeous texture in that fur! I just want to reach out and sink my hands into it! Your focus is right on, and I can see each individual hair. I might note that the sheer amount of space that the candle occupies in the frame makes it a bit distracting.
#4. Again, that picture captures the beautiful fur well. This would be a stellar shot if the dog had been sitting on the lawn instead of in a car. As is, the background (as well as that brown object in front of its paws) is a rather distracting.
I might add that taking pictures of an animal in a car could be rather challenging.
Here is a suggestion for you. Take the Foundations of Photography course that James Staddon offers. When it comes to learning the basics and beyond in photography, it’s one of the best courses out there. As professional photography courses go, it is not that expensive (Lenspiration Members get it free!) You’ll learn a lot, and it will make a very real difference in your photos. Understanding those technical details of composition, lighting, and post-processing will improve your pictures significantly, no matter what equipment you use.
Your pictures show potential. Keep shooting!