Our last two dogs, Sugar and Bean, were nothing alike in their outward appearance. Sugar was a gorgeous, yellow lab mix who was obedient, loyal, and a fetcher among fetchers. Bean, judging from her appearance and behavior, may be a cross between a cheetah and a giraffe – unlikely combo, I know. She is naughty and fast, and her neck measures nearly half of her body length.
Although they differ in many ways, Sugar and Bean share one unusual characteristic: both pups smile. If you have never seen a dog sporting a “passive grin,” as the vet calls it, it can be alarming. I think it is an unusual trait, but we have been blessed with two smilers. Sugar is no longer with us, but if you meet Bean, be prepared for a wag of her tail and a flash of her pearly whites.