When your dog deserves praise, what do you do? Most of us run to the pantry and grab a treat. Although this is a fine reward for a job well done, we have some other ideas to consider.
It is human nature to desire praise for tasks as well. In that world what task rises to a level of recognized praise? It is animal instinct to look to the pack leader for acceptance, not a recognition as much. The pack leader manages a lot sometimes enforcing food rationing. An extra scrap is definitely a good job 'pat' of encouragement.
Give a Little Lovin'
Now what about appreciation and companionship? This is when it is time to let the love out. Take a separate time to call your dog over to you .. give them a second to calm down .. and show them some affection. There are no treats involved here, just strokes, pats and hugs.
Especially for dogs with medium length hair, such as shepards and collies, try a rub underneath the collar. Remove or scratch underneath the collar. Hair that is kept confined like that becomes itchy. As you can imagine, it is difficult to get under there effectively with paws. Now that's a treat!
Summarizing, there is time for reward and there is time for love. Try to separate the two. When your dog has done a "job well done", this is a perfect time for a treat. When you want to give your puppy affection, go ahead and reward them with a little rubdown.
You will find that you get a different behavior from your dog although both of them are exciting. Associating closeness to the pack leader and food could cause begging behaviors at dinner time or even some noses on plates.
Another good resource:
Smart Pet Products 
If you are a gadget person, this place is for you. From automatic feeders to ultrasonic tone automated bark correctors.
