Hi Michael,
Shooting down on the subject often has the advantage of giving us a clean background, as in the case of this asphalt. The problem with shooting down on a subject though is that it also belittles the subject that you are photographing.
This puppy looks all sweet and innocent but between the flat light and the absolutely passive expression on its face, the shot is more boring than cute.
Now, the challenge in working with animals is that it is never likely you will get them to do what you want them to do, when you want to do it! Still, we must persist!
If I was making the photograph I would be more inclined to lie on the ground and photograph the pup at his level. What's more, I would also try and get the tree or the flower garden into the background of the photograph.
Do this and the photograph will tell more of a story!
That being said, don't throw this photo out; I'm sure there are millions of people about the world who will love this pic.
Cheers,
Anthony.