What is the best way to paint very short coated black dogs/animals.Everytime I try to paint dogs/animals in this colour it looks terrible.

I find screwing your eyes up and seeing all the wonderful reflected colours in the coat. Purples/blues/greens and the coat never really is 'black'. A complimentary background can also be a great help.

Hello Peter! Try using Black Velour and stroking fine, light strokes with Greys and Whites, and perhaps other light tints to depict the glossy coat of a black doggy.
I have a pastel portrait of a black cat on Black Velour and it looks stunning, if you keep the fine strokes to just the light catching areas on the dogs coat.
Alternatively, try using Pastel Pencils as they may give you better control in the fine hair depiction, and as we always say; Practice, Practice. Practice!!!

I hope this may offer some help, but come back to me if you wish.

Very best wishes,

Steve Williams
RSC Wigan / Warrington area