The Dogs lost Dunkley and Treloar (who hasn't played a full season for a few years now) during the season, but they were both fine for the grand final. If you say Melbourne had a very good run because their best midfielders were still available, than I'd say that likewise the Dogs had a very good run because McRae and Bontompolli both played every game.
Just bank and enjoy the flag and stop being idiots.
You don't want to evolve into Richmond flogs who spent 4 years beating their chests telling everyone how good they think they are.
Dogs lost more key players. Bruce was a big one and Martin played finals underdone returning from injury. He battled but wasn't match fit.