Crate Training Crate training can ease the housebreaking period, help pups to travel safe and give them a comfortable place of retreat. Most puppies think of their crate as a den, esp. if there is a soft liner in it. Make sure that the crate is well ventilated and that there is room for the dog to turn around and stretch out but don't go too big. Never leave your puppy in a crate too long. Although they may make it through the night do not leave a puppy crated for more than a few hours and always leave plenty of fresh water. Accidents happen, just be sure to clean the crate thoroughly. Accidents are usually the fault of the owner so it is important to be consistent. Never use a crate for punishment but for sleep and relaxation. Keep a special toy in it like a puppy kong with paste and make the crate a haven for the puppy.     www.leerburg.com is a great site for housebreaking and training information. Click here for training a puppy to a pee pad  HOUSEBREAKING Until he is about 3 months old your puppy will have to relieve himself quite often. Timing is essential. Your puppy needs to go after eating, playing, or after a walk, about every 2 hours during the day. Remember that keeping to a regular schedule of meals and walks will make it easier. Don't end the walk abruptly as soon as he releives himself; end the trip outside in fun or he will figure out that holding it will result in more fun time. Always let him know when he's been good. Watch him close and if he acts like he's going to "go", say no and quickly take him outside. Never give delayed punishment. If you punish him later he will act guilty , hanging his head and looking sad but this does not mean that he understands; all he knows is that you are unhappy with him. NEVER RUB HIS NOSE IN IT! Provide him with his own special place such as a crate and confine him anytime you are not watching him. A puppy is less likely to relieve himself in a confined space and will hold until the walk but remember that he cannot as of yet hold for very long.