Start with a clear reference
Choose one photo with a visible face, a distinct outline, and enough contrast from the background. A simple crop gives the generator less irrelevant detail to interpret and makes the final sprite easier to read at a small size.
Decide on the companion's job
Will the pet sit beside a terminal, appear in a desktop runner, or become a small personal keepsake? The answer helps you choose a readable silhouette and an export target before you spend time polishing details.
Tune for recognition
Keep the most memorable features: ear shape, coat pattern, glasses, a favorite color, or a familiar expression. Pixel art has very few visual units, so a small number of strong cues usually works better than trying to preserve every detail from the source photo.
Review before downloading
Use the preview to check the face, colors, and animation feel. If the result does not look like the intended companion, adjust the reference or description before purchasing the finished artifact. The goal is a pet you will enjoy seeing repeatedly, not a technically complicated image.
Keep the package understandable
After download, keep the generated README with the asset files. It explains the intended target and helps you reinstall the same companion if you move machines. For future compatibility, treat the target agent's current documentation as authoritative. If the checklist fits your workflow, start creating and see the included deliverables on the pricing page.