I, too, am a firm believer in dog training.  I spent almost $1000 dollars for lifetime training for my dog in California.  Hence, the word, California, because it does not apply to anywhere else outside of.  Anyways, I've taken on 2 more dogs and was very close to hiring another trainer, spending of course, over $500 or more.  However, fate brought me to watch a program on TLC called "It's me or the dog".  Wonderful show.  I tivo every show and apply to her very methods.  So far, so good, because my Rottweiler now sees me as the alpha role figure.  Her methods are very effective.  I'M THE BOSS AGAIN

Try watching it, and tell me what you thing.  Hope this helps.