most of the trainers in South Carolina charge about 125 a week ( 500 a month). They say that it takes about three months to do the training-give or take depending on how quick the dog learns. If you do not have time to do it yourself then I think it is well worth it. As far as the "bonding" goes, I do not think that it is harmful at all. I know my dog was super excited to see me after 2 months, and now when we go hunting I do not have to teach or yell at him. So we are always having a great time hunting and "bonding". Well worth the $. IMHO. I have read gun dog and water dog and they are good books. However, I was in your position (right out of school) and was scared that I might screw it up some how. Good luck!