Koda our Samoyed, is a leaner. If he wants you to pet him he just leans into you, if that isn't enough of a hint if you are sitting he will just put his head on your leg.
Nita our German Shepherd Dog is a starer, she will just give you laser eyes until you ask her what she wants, then she will direct you. Usually it's that she wants to play, she will bring you the toy or just drop one (or more) at your feet.
Koda also woo woos when he is in the kitchen and wants a treat. That's a Samoyed (Nordic breed) thing but I do keep wondering if the GSD will ever pick up on it :D
~ Dori ~