I saw this a few months back and wondered if anyone knew who that handsome man (?) was. Dogville Shorts were made between 1929 and 1931. Reminds me of the old "Dogs Playing Poker" pictures. Classic art, almost brings a tear to my eye:D.
The golden I used to have did similar things w/her ears/eyes when I approached w/a leash. It was a habit formed from years of me sliding a new collar on with the leash attached. She'd squint and pull her ears back in anticipation of the collar being slid over her head.
The smile? I never got that.