I'm afraid that once a dog gets into the habit even chopping off the bollixes doesn't usually stop him trying to get knotted. Not without aversion therapy.

I did manage to cure a big, suposedly unteachable 'leg hugger' with some very hot water and a sponge on a stick. It was drastic but he was going to be killed within a few hours if he could not be reformed, and although he was caused pain it saved his life. I heard that he would hurridly leave the kitchen whenever the kettle was filled after that.

As your new comer is only a small dog, if he is a nuisance you could try pushing him onto his back and holding him down to show him who is boss - in a gentle way. In a dog pack only the boss dog breeds so there are usually built in buttons to push to try to get your own way with a dog.

I wish you , and him all the best, and hope that you reach a mutual understanding very soon.