I really know better then to post on these types of threads, but I can't help myself. Chugalug- You love your dog. From what you say, you take better care of him then most. He gets a lot of attention, you have trained him and you say he is a good dog. Does it REALLY matter that he is on the patio? I know that is what this post is all about, but I look at these things like this.... I have been married for 16 years and on occasion my husband will do something or aquire a habit that I don't like. Instead of getting all bent out of shape (ok, I do at first, but once I calm down.....) I think, is this worth getting a divorce over? I guess I would think of your dog that way. I think he sounds like a wonderful guy and you really seem to care for him. If you try everything in your power and he WON"T stay off the patio, is it worth getting rid of him over? I don't think so, but only you and your family can decide. I don't really think your dog is wanting in the house, per se, he is just wanting your company. My children want my company most of the time, but it is not always possible and they must wait. Yes, they may sit at the counter and stare at me or whine at me, but dinner must be cooked, dishes must be done, etc. When I get done, we spend time together and they forget all about the time they waited. Yes, I have an inside dog, but I have had 2 outside dogs (they wouldn't come in the house for anything even though they would whine like they wanted to). As far as getting another dog? I think it would be a good idea (companionshipwise for your dog), but I do think you would just end up with 2 dogs on the patio! Anyway, good luck to you and Happy New Year