When dogs "laugh," they often make rapid panting noises while relaxing their jaws. Their mouths may appear to smile.
Dogs don't have the anatomical ability to laugh like humans. Their "laughter" is panting that signifies happiness and joy.
Dogs will make laughing-like panting noises during or after playtime as a response to feelings of happiness and excitement.
Dogs may make "laughing" sounds when greeting owners as an expression of excitement. It's a form of sniffing.
A dog's "laughter" can be contagious, triggering true laughter from human owners sharing in their pet's joy.
Relaxed open-mouth panting signals comfort. Dogs do it more around trusted humans compared to strangers.
Wagging tails, squinty eyes, bouncy movements, and relaxed ears/faces also help convey a dog's happiness.