Neutering my Maltese

Question
Hi, thanks for taking the time to read this question(s), I just got a 1 and1/2 year maltese male, I took him in to the vet, they told me he was a crypto, any how, i got it done, but the poor guy had 3 incisions made as they could not find the 2nd testicle.  On the 3rd day of recovery one of the incisions opened, i took him in got it stapled, took him home, he popped/chewed them out, i took him back and had sutures put in, and got him a e collar, which seems to be working fairly well for the time being, he has a habit of running under the couches, and to avoid that I have tied the leash to the stairs and have set up a little bed for him.  As well his tail isnt wagging, which makes me think that he is not happy which i guess is understandable, but I am just scared that he is too stressed.  How long should I wait until the sutures heal that wound, so that I can remove the collar, how do I prevent him from hiding under the couches?
Oh and 1 further thing, I carry him out to the driveway, so that he doesnt have to climb any stairs and then let him down to do his business, but I noticed that he still lifts one of his back legs, and after walking a few steps he just sits down, and if he doesnt do anything than I just pick him up and take him back inside, as I am terrified of his sutures opening.  Thanks Again, and any help would be great.  Regards/p

Answer
Oh poor thing,
Its for his own good to let the stitches heal as more problems could occur eg infections.
Getting him better is the main thing, Dogs live in the moment so this will seem like the worst thing ever for him at the min.
Could you block the underneath of the couches for now eg large cushions or a rollled up blanket. its also for his own good as you dont want his persanality to be changed. spend as much time with him as you can sit him on your knee etc. Believe me all he wants is your love and by cuddling him and showing him affection it will keep him going and he will be better in no time.  stupid question ? but you could put a small baby pir of pants on him and cut a hole for tail to prevent him knibbling at stitches and dirt getting in there.
Just a thought lol.
Good luck please let me know how you get on my thoughts are with you for the litte guy.