See.. For me I like it about on par with the other one, but for very different reasons, the reason I like this one is because oh how your art, seems to interact well with the lens flare effect, like.. It's intentional? I love how you shaded the face and lit only the very edges, your attention to detail on how the light is interacting with your outline and how the shadows are being cast on your face is very nice. I think.. the only thing I can think that would push this above and beyond is.. Messing with the muzzle shape, otherwise I really love what you came up with.

I'm equally happy to hear the hike went well and you had a nice time, it definitely seemed like you picked a good day to go.