I've never used a trainer, and had no training myself beyond 4-H. I've always been lucky enough that I have a natural talent for it. My neighbor rescued a Basenji, but she was close to taking it to the shelter until I brought her home to my house for a few days. When I took her home, I just made sure my neighbor knew what to look for and how to correct it, or at least what I'd done to correct it. I think the couple with the Boxer has a bigger problem than the Boxer! I agree with some other posters in that a trainer is all find and dandy, but if you don't know how to use those steps outside of class, it's a waste of time and money.