For My Pet Dog, Lucy!

It's Lucy's birthday this 4th of July. I really love this pet dog. And I am thinking of availing a pet portrait to honor her on her birthday. I know it's possible today to get a pet portrait using your pet's photo as reference, right? I believe all pets deserve to be treated well. And I think this is the best gift I could give her which I can also display on walls in my own home, letting other people to see it. So, what do you think?
   
Would it be better if I'll use a solo picture of Lucy or that one which we're together? Your suggestions will be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

Your questions are actually about photography, not pet care or training.
   
Speak to a professional photographer. You will get better information from that person than from us, unless one of us actually is a professional photographer, which I am unaware of.