Zoe,please do not take offense to my constructive criticism...every artist has to develop a tough outer shell because you will spend the rest of your life listening to comments both good and bad about your work. I know... I am a working artist and have been painting and drawing a long time. My comments were not meant to be hurtful...you asked for honest and I am qualified to give you an educated and honest opinion. One of the worst things that can happen to a young artist is to hear constant unconditional praise because then you will develop an ego before you develop your skills. That is not a bad first attempt now go back and work on it some more and it will be even better.
I was able to see the dog close up...the portrait is too big for my screen and I can only see it in portions.