Next time you get a riding partner, try to see who can whistle the longest going up a long/steep climb. It can have interesting results and get you to laughing pretty quick so watch it.
Another thing I do is talk to strange dogs that sprint out to meet me. Sometimes you can read their body language when they respond to a calm voice and get clues as to what their intentions are.
It's a wonder I haven't gotten shot for a loonie before now.