Geezer, you're correct by training your own dog you create a strong bond and actually to your speed/actions. My issues arose to where i had hit a plateau with certain actions no matter what i read,seen or acted on. That is were a professional came into play for me. I didn't mind my dog having to start over with someone new and advancing from there. Plus someone with access to the necessary facilities everyday was a required training tool. Same thing goes for my shepherd,she's been training schutzhund/protection with me but finding the right club/people makes all the difference in the world since there's access to seasoned professionals/dogs to help thru those times of need to always excel.