Why do you think you can train against nature? Haven't you ever heard of "Tree Climbing Coon Hounds"? They breed them to climb after the coons. Extending the fence is a good idea to avoid the problem. He'll slow down with age.
I'm so glad that you perservered with this dog. I know you'll be buddies for a long time. Buford sounds like a wonderful dog. Thanks for the update. I enjoyed reading every post.
I wasn’t thinking that I can train the climbing out of him. Your (and other nice folks) feedback made me realize that is not possible and that I needed to change my mindset. Instead, my concern is coming up with a way to add fence extensions that he can’t climb.
In fact, he still enjoys going on the coffee table and I have stopped “freaking out” about it. I have learned that he is only doing it because it is in front of where I am sitting and he simply decided that it was the fastest route to get to me and get some attention. Now that I quit worrying, I actually find it comical!
I think I have found a very effective fence solution, but I am prepared for his ingenuity to outsmart me!
;-)