Start with simple shapes (circles, ovals, rectangles) for the head, body, and legs
Add a center line and rough proportions guidelines
Sketch the general pose with light lines (standing, walking, running)
Block in major features (ears, tail, mane, snout) using basic shapes
Define the body outline with smoother lines over the sketch
Add joints and leg angles to match the animal’s stance
Refine paws/feet with simple toe/claw shapes
Place eyes, nose, and mouth using guideline placement
Indicate fur, feathers, or scales with short directional marks
Add texture details (whiskers, crests, horn ridges, feather layers)
Use overlapping lines to show depth and form
Erase construction lines once the final outline is set
Shade with a basic value plan (light, mid, dark)
Add highlights and shadows to shape the form
Use a light source direction and keep it consistent
Add cast shadows where the animal touches the ground or objects
Adjust proportions (head size, leg length, tail length) to match reference
Practice drawing from references (photos, sketches, live observation)
Draw multiple quick gesture sketches to capture movement
Study animal anatomy (skull, pelvis, spine, shoulder/hip placement)
Vary styles (realistic, cartoon, silhouette) to build flexibility
Finish with clean line work and selective detail
Repeat with different animals and angles to improve consistency