Ask HN: Best house-pet training resources?

The best way to make “your house pet’s life more wonderful” is to ensure that it is consistently obedient at any time without having to resort to bribery. IMO, the best training guide/philosophy is that of William Koehler. “The Koehler Method of Dog Training” is no longer printed, but you can easily find used copies on Amazon. The book is excellent and I’ve found his methods to be the most reliable way to get a well-behaved and happy dog.

Koehler trained dogs for the military during WWI and went on to train dogs in a number of Disney movies. His techniques are intended to produce consistent off the leash obedience. There is no question as to whether or not the techniques work. However, trainers following the “pure positive” and “death before discomfort” philosophies view Koehler’s techniques as old-fashioned and cruel. Personally, I find it cruel, sometimes even dangerous, to allow a dog to determine when it will and will not be obedient.

Koehler’s approach may not be for you, but you should at least educate yourself about it as an alternative.