A pat excuse: When humans ignore me, it leaves me gutted

Frank, the world’s most adorable dog, can’t understand why some people are impervious to his pleas for affection.

October 10, 2026 — 5:00am

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The diary of a dog: As a kelpie puppy, I look appealing. I don’t think it’s bragging to point out the obvious. Most humans understand that, with my green eyes and big ears, I’m adorable. As soon as I see a person or maybe a group of people approaching, I hold still, wag my tail furiously, and wait to be showered with praise. Sometimes, the anticipation is the most exciting part of the process. As they approach, I sit down, my body quivering with excitement, and think, “Just wait until they get a look at me.”

Nine times out of 10, the response is as expected. Often better than expected. The phrase “cutest puppy ever” has, on occasion, been heard. But then, one time out of 10, they just walk straight past. Nothing. No pat, no greeting, no words of admiration. It leaves me gutted. I turn and watch them walk into the distance, unable to tear my eyes away as they recede.

Surely, there’s been some mistake? Are they partially sighted? Perhaps it’s a heart surgeon in a hurry? Were they troubled, earlier in the week, by some personal tragedy which has left them temporarily oblivious to things of great beauty?

One morning, there was a particularly........

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