This is what I hate about dog training!
The "establishment" makes it unnerving, frightening and full of, all too often, deliberate pitfalls.

Please email me with your problems if you wish to and I will do what I can to help.


Do not feel like you do at the moment!

A dog training class is not what I would suggest. A half decent behaviourist will be helpful, honest and will not make you feel intimidated or that there is an etiquette to be observed.
These are your dogs and you are being honest, open and trusting in saying that you have problems. YOU are doing the right thing in trying to rectify these problems and anyone who makes you feel bad for that is wallowing in their own knowledge and the power that it gives them rather than showing any interest in the well being of your dogs or the fact that you are a good person trying to gain some insight.
I am very cross that you should feel you need advice on how to approach these people, as a whole, but totally understand that many are in the same boat as you. This is terrible. You are not alone in this and it is the best way to put people off seeking help that I can think of.
I know, before anyone tells me, that this a bit over the top ( and probably not what you meant at all! - sorry) but I have had so many emails in the last few months about exactly this sort of thing I have reached the end of my tether!
There is no magic, no special tricks and should be no special way to approach trainers or behaviourists.
Dog training is not quantum physics, it is not algebra, it is not even long division! Anyone who makes you feel like they have some secret knowledge that you don't....leave them well alone. It is just dog training - it can be harder than you think but it is not rocket science!
I would still go with one on one training with the right trainer.....but if you already feel like the underdog (pardon the pun) then STOP!
You don't have major problems, they are pretty easy to sort out with the right attitude from you ( you certainly don't have a problem there) and it is a crying shame that a) you feel so intimidated and b) there aren't more owners like you who want the best for their dogs.
Pooh to all dog trainers that make it more compicated than it is!