Advice for a dog who's chewing up my couch.?

That is the reason crates were created, to put the dog in while you are gone.

Sounds like the bassett has separation anxiety, that's why he only attacks the couch when you aren't home. Study up on Separation Anxeity and learn how to train your dog to be ok when you leave the house, in the meantime purchase a crate and crate the dog when you aren't home that way he can't get at your couch or anything else.

A long brisk walk to tire him out before you leave. Also I suggest you buy a bottle of Bitter Apple and spray some on the couch and pillows. The nasty taste discourages them from chewing on things.

It is known that many canine misbehaviors are born out of instinct, and most arise from either boredom or stress. Aggressive behavior, chasing, marking, and resource guarding are modern manifestations of dogs' early instincts to acquire food and protect their territory and pack. Digging and chewing, on the other hand, are usually the results of boredom.

Check this out for chewing behavior solutions, http://snipurl.com/tquw5

training, exercise, supervision keep in crate when you can't supervise training is a lot more than leash listening well, etc. needs at least two hour long walks plus 4-5 hours play/exercise daily plus 45 minutes of training he is bored so destructive

Buy a 'Scat Mat' and put it in front of the sofa so the dog has to step on it to reach the sofa. They work great and they won't hurt the dogs.

When you leave only put him in another room and gate it off and in a while he will just forget or will just do what the other dog does

buy a dog crate may be see a trainer as it may be separation anxiety as it is not doing it whilst your there and keep your doors closed when you are out.

Kick it (I'm serious). It worked for me, Don't give him a big kick just kinda push him over with your foot, If he thinks your playing push him a bit harder. It worked for me.

stock up on couches