Nice idea -- a bit of work on the blending between the images would help this -- blending needs to be softened so the underlying ape shows a bit more thru the dog

The idea is good, the tips above are valid.
It could also set a color for the creature, make it unique.

Thanks for the comments guys will see if i can improve blending tomorrow and upload

for the fading into of the black and brown, you can use a big brush for the "Eraser" tool to brush out for a smoother fade-in.

note: remember to have original copy of dog intact, so if you made a mistake, you can still re-do it.

good tip aheman nice talk

Think about finding an Irish setter...you won't have such a color matching problem, and you still have plenty of time!

Try to smudge it a bit. With a strength about 80%. More or less.

If you have a tablet, It'll done easily with the smudge tool. But first, do not erase it, try using masking capability in order to achieve the better manipulation tools.

Good luck, Author.

Wow thanks for all the great comments and advice really appreciate the feedback. Will be taking some suggestions on board will update asap.

@ hayato already have a mask in place rather than using a eraser I prefer to work non destructive where possible.

much better

Thanks Jack next time i choose a black subject to colour match someone please shoot me! ;D

Much, much better!!!

WOW!!! Super duper improvement.. good luck author