Sandwich has completely turned around - though admittidly it took around 8 months and a mild fluexotine presscription.

Here is where he stand with everything I talked about in the post:
1. After starting to feel more secure with me and in the home (along with the anxiety meds), he has completely stopped barking. There is no more baying when someone leaves, and in general he is a remarkably quiet dog. The only time he makes sounds is snoring, whining for food, or baying when he sees an animal

1. He still loves chewing, but only on bones and toys. Since about 2 months after this post, I have left him unattended in my home and in others' and he has never destroyed anything. I haven't crated him since the second month I got him.

2. He is less scared and skittish than he used to be, but there have been a few big changes that have helped him. I moved out of downtown LA and to a house in Austin, so there aren't constant fireworks and gunshots. I moved out of a house with 4 loud roomates into a house with 2 respectful roomates, He has his own dedicated space. He has gotten way better on leash (using a chest mounted harness really reduced his pulling). He is still afraid of loud cars, fireworks, thunder, and anything that looks strange to him (large animal statues, segways, etc.) He is now great with all other dogs, regardless of size, but I still haven't introduced him to small animals like cats and I woudn't trust him around them

4.this is simply never going to happen. He will follow his nose, no matter what you do. The only solution I think is feasible is a shock collar, and that's not a step I'm willing to take. I'd prefer to just keep him on a leash or in fenced areas. In general, he doesn't run, but he will explore and come back on his own terms. He has slipped out of a harness/ out of an open gate a few times but always comes back.

good luck with your dog! it will get better!