Embracing Your Dog's Sense of Humor

You ever get the feeling your dog is messing with you… on purpose?

Like when they swipe your sock and parade it around the living room just to watch you chase them? Or when they play “dead” mid-walk and suddenly forget how to move until you reach for a treat?

If so, congratulations—you might have a class clown on your hands. And yes, believe it or not, dogs have a sense of humor. They may not be cracking dad jokes or pulling pranks like a sitcom character, but dogs absolutely show signs of playfulness, silliness, and even a cheeky sense of fun.

Let’s dig into the science (and some laugh-out-loud real-life examples) behind your dog’s goofy side—and how to encourage it in a healthy way.

Dog socialization:

The first 3 things you should train your puppy to do

Puppy pre-school training: what dogs learn

Mini Bernedoodles & kids: the role of early socialization

Do Dogs Have a Sense of Humor? Yes

While researchers still debate exactly how much dogs “understand” comedy, there’s growing evidence that dogs engage in funny dog behavior on purpose—especially during play.

Charles Darwin wrote about it. So did famed animal behaviorist Konrad Lorenz. And modern studies show that dogs use play bows, teasing, and exaggerated movements to initiate play and entertain both humans and other dogs.

Some even exhibit what's called “dog laughter”—a kind of breathy pant researchers believe signals playfulness and joy. You’ve probably heard it during a tug-of-war or a particularly rowdy game of fetch.

Bottom line? Your dog might not be lining up a Netflix comedy special anytime soon, but they definitely know how to have a laugh—especially if you’re in on the fun.

Signs Your Dog Is Being Silly (On Purpose)

Not sure if your pup is joking around or just being weird? Here are some playful dog body language cues that suggest your dog’s got a silly streak:

• Play bows followed by a quick zoomie sprint

• “Stealing” objects like socks, toys, or your kid’s stuffed animal (and refusing to give it back)

• Repeating behavior that made you laugh last time

• Tapping you with a paw to start a game

• Deliberately hiding and popping out (yes, some dogs play hide and seek!)

Some dogs are natural-born goofballs, while others need a little encouragement. But if your pup seems to love getting a reaction—whether from you, the kids, or the other pets—they probably have a bit of a jokester personality.

"I think there are more or less 'funny' puppies in a litter," says dog breeder Jenna Stone, founder of JennaLee Designer Doodles. "While 'silly' is all relative, I think the ones that stand out most are the ones that just wag their tails without always having a reason, and the ones who love to bow to their littermates as a sign of playfulness."

Why This Matters: Humor Builds Connection

Just like laughter bonds humans, play and shared silliness deepen the bond between dogs and their families. It builds trust, reduces stress, and strengthens the relationship in ways that structured training alone can’t.

For families, this is a huge win. Encouraging your dog’s funny side:

• Teaches kids to interact with the dog positively

• Offers natural stress relief (for everyone!)

• Reinforces good behavior in a joyful, low-pressure way

• Turns training into play instead of a chore

Plus, it’s just plain fun.

Breed Tendencies: Are Some Dogs Funnier Than Others?

Let’s be honest—some dogs just have it. That natural goofball energy. The ones who turn every walk into a comedy sketch or come up with new ways to make you laugh without even trying.

And yep, breed plays a big part in that. Let’s take a look at a few breeds that are basically born entertainers.

Golden Retrievers: If there’s a class clown of the dog world, it’s probably the Golden. They’re friendly, eager to please, and love a good game—especially one that involves stealing your sock and making you chase them for it. Goldens have that happy-go-lucky energy that keeps them acting like oversized puppies well into adulthood. Whether they’re tossing toys in the air or rolling onto their backs mid-play, they’re pure, joyful chaos (in the best way).

Boxers: Boxers are bouncy, wiggly, and full of exaggerated expressions. Ever seen a dog do the “kidney bean dance”? That’s a Boxer specialty—twisting themselves into a crescent while wiggling their whole body with excitement. They’re known for being playful well into their third year, and they’re not afraid to get silly to get your attention.

French Bulldogs: Frenchies are tiny comedians with big personalities. From dramatic zoomies to expressive head tilts, they’ve mastered the art of making people laugh. Add their squishy faces, upright bat ears, and little snorts, and you’ve got a four-legged stand-up act. These pups live for attention—and they’ll absolutely pull a stunt or two to stay in the spotlight.

Poodles (and Poodle Mixes): Poodles are brilliant. But what makes them extra fun? They're also entertainers. Their quick wits, athleticism, and flair for the dramatic make them natural performers. Whether it’s inventing their own games or putting their unique spin on a trick, Poodles love hamming it up. That’s part of why they were so popular in circuses—and why today’s Doodles often inherit that silly streak.

Sources:

• https://www.ellevetsciences.com/blog/why-do-dogs-do-funny-things/

• https://www.worldanimalfoundation.org/advocate/dog-breeds/

• https://boxerfriends.org/boxer-dog-breed-information/

• https://iheartdogs.com/10-dog-breeds-with-the-best-sense-of-humor/

  
  
  
  

How to Encourage Your Dog’s Funny Side

Got a serious pup? That’s okay—you can still bond through dog play and bring out their lighter side. Try these playful ideas:

• Teach a silly trick, like “peekaboo,” spinning in a circle, or “play dead” with flair

• Invent a game together, like hide-and-seek in the house or “find the toy under the cup”

• Let them win at tug sometimes—they’ll love it even more

• Use playful tone and gestures—dogs are super tuned in to your energy

• Rotate toys to keep things fresh and give them a “new prank target”

Some dogs also love “pranking” other pets—gently teasing with toys, paw taps, or chase games. Just be sure it stays mutual and lighthearted. If one dog looks annoyed or tries to escape, it’s time to call a timeout.

Silly vs. Stress: Know the Difference in Dogs

Here’s the thing—not all mischief is humorous. If your dog is chewing furniture, stealing food, or destroying toys out of boredom or anxiety, that’s a different ball game.

Signs it’s not humor but stress:

• Panting heavily outside of play

• Destructive behavior when left alone

• Avoidance or nervous pacing

• Lip licking or yawning in a non-sleepy context

In those cases, adding enrichment and addressing the root cause (boredom, separation anxiety, lack of exercise) is key. But once those needs are met? That playful, goofy energy is gold.

Other dog topics:

How to train your dog for theme park visits

Service dog requirements

What are puppy matchmakers?

Celebrate Your Dog’s Inner Comedian

Whether they’re tossing a toy in the air like a maniac or “fake begging” just to watch your reaction, funny dog habits aren’t just adorable—they’re a real part of your pup’s personality. And in a busy family household, that little burst of joy can be the highlight of the day.

So next time your dog flashes you that mischievous grin or nudges you with their nose mid-Zoom call, lean into it. Laugh with them. Make it a game. Let them know you get the joke.

Because life’s better when you don’t take it too seriously—just ask your dog.

Jenna and the JLDD Team