Using a Leash Indoors During the Dog's Adjustment Period

For the first few days after you bring a new dog home, leave a leash attached to the dog's buckle collar while indoors with you, so you can stop him immediately if he starts doing something you don't want -- such as lifting his leg, chewing on a chair leg, jumping on the couch, or showing any aggressive signs towards anyone in the household.

Warning: Don't leave a leash attached when you're not there; the leash could get caught on something, or chewed up. Never leave a choke collar on a dog when indoors or out in the yard, or else he could be strangled if caught on something like a drawer pull or fence post.

If you don't want your dog get on the furniture, use a quick leash correction as soon as he tries to hop up and he will learn quickly. Many trainers advise that dogs not be allowed on furniture because it can aggravate dominant tendencies. Instead, give dogs their own comfy beds/crates to rest in. Decide what you want to do, then all family members must abide by those decisions. Consistency is key to training.