People often ask me, "Dill, how do you stay so cute?"
Well, I have to say I have several factors working in my favor.

First would be genetics. At the risk of being labeled a breedist, Shelties are just naturally good looking dogs. I have no control over this. It is, what it is. It is a blessing and curse.

Second factor would be the sporty, healthy life I live. There's nothing quite like a romp outside followed by a good crunchy cookie (my preferred choice - Breath Busters) to put the roses in your cheeks.

Thirdly, I would have to say my positive outlook contributes to my overall cuteness factor. I try not to let anything get me down. Sure, I suffer the occasional thunderstorm induced panic, momentary fits of pique when I don't get me way, and I do have fleeting concerns over the state of the world - will the bad economy result in a shortage of tennis balls or Breath Busters? But, in general, I am a happy go lucky, upbeat kinda guy.

The final factor, and it is no small contributor, is the attention, love and devotion lavished on me by my human companions. Yeah, they annoy me sometimes and can be a little "too much" other times but all in all they are fine folks to live with and call my own.

So there you have it - the secret to my cuteness. I think there is a lesson to be learned in this for anyone.