It's never too late for a dog to learn, but the classes are not a good idea. Classes are full of distractions. Distractions are what you introduce to a dog that has already been trained without distractions, and is performing well. If your dog is ...

Sorry, I guess I just assumed y'all live where I do, where it never snows or bakes. The climate here suits my clothes. My bad.

If you as the pack leader left for vacation and left the dog behind then yes, the dog may well have stepped up to the leadership role in your absence, since a vacuum loves to be filled.
It does sound like your mom may not have filled that role, ...

Totally uncalled for comments.

***Edited By: pyrmom on 8/11/2009 7:33:13 PM***
Reason: removed uncalled for, hurtfull comments

When someone starts with 'Anyone who knows about dogs ...' you can be fairly certain they are resorting to argument by intimidation due to their position not being arguable any other way. Don't be afraid of these people, just calmly walk away.
...

Begin by keeping the puppy outside where he can pee at will. Bring him inside for brief periods and then back outside again. If you can watch thru a window then observe when he pees and bring him inside immediately afterwards. Do not get the puppy...

Putting your dog into a cage will just make him more energetic when he gets out. Doggie jail is not the answer. Crates are for transporting dogs on airplanes, not controlling their behavior at home.

Your dog does not think of his behavio...