We have a no dog on the couch rule (not that we currently have a dog, just counting down to we move so we can get one). Occasionally, my Mum's dog is allowed up, but only when her special rug is up on Mum's knee. She then behaves like a lapdog. Otherwise, she has 3 or 4 beds in the house. She is known to sneak onto a bed or couch when her people are out, but she know's she's not allowed.

I also agree that dogs need to know their place in the pack. I personally think cats belong at the bottom of the pack, but they tend to disagree so long as the dog is getting lots of love and affection, they don't need to be on the couch, no matter how pathetic they look.

Would your dog feel more comfortable in a crate? Or on one of those camp beds? Could he sleep in the laundry?