One of the best tools for training and housebreaking your pup is the crate. Many people look at it as a cage. But, when used properly, it will be your dog's safe zone. Their refuge.
The most important part of crate training is to get the right crate. It should be large enough for the dog to stand fully upright on all four legs, and give them plenty of room to move around. If it's too big they can find a spot to go to the bathroom. If it's too small it will be cramped and uncomfortable. Either extreme will make your dog not want to go into their crate.
The crate should never ever be used as punishment. NEVER grab your dog in anger and force them in their crate. Give it a positive name and use it. For my dogs (each has a separate crate) I simply call it "bed." I keep one or two of their favorite toys in their "bed." They will get them out, but when picking up I place them back. There should be an actual mat or bed in the crate to keep them comfortable and warm. Don't make your dog stay in a sterile empty crate on the plastic tray. They will hate that. When it's time to go into the crate I joyfully say, "Let's go to bed!" When they go into their bed I say, "Yay! Good boy (or girl). Good bed!" Make it something they love to do.
When first using the crate you may need to help your dog into it by guiding or placing them on the bed through the door. For larger dogs you may need to guide them in with a favorite treat. Once they are in the crate, praise them lavishly for entering (even if you are the one who placed them inside). You might reward them with a little treat. Don't put food and water in the crate as they shouldn't be in it long enough to get hungry or thirsty.
If you have a new pup and have to leave for work, try to have a dog walker come take them out to relieve themselves and then go right back in the crate. The best option is for you to go home at lunch and let them out.
Over time they should be able to stay in the crate while you are at work. But, please don't leave them in their crate for ten or twelve hours. All dogs should be treated the same, but there are exception.
What you will find is your dog will go to their crate when they are tired, want to get away from too much excitement, or to just lounge around. It will be their safe place to enter without fear. If you have multiple dogs you might find two or more cuddling in one crate. Awesome! Let them voluntarily get together in their open crate. But, don't make them sleep together in a single crate. Put the crates next to each other allowing them to communicate, be close, but have their own safe space.
If you have a sick dog, new rescue, or young pup, never scold them if they pee or soil their crate. Have a couple of beds on hand and simply clean it up and wash the dirty bed. You aren't teaching them it's okay, and don't worry about it happening. They actually hate it more than you. They will be emotionally vulnerable because they were uncomfortable, ashamed, and embarrassed that it happened. If you clean it up and stay upbeat about it the entire time you will reinforce the fact that you are there to keep them safe and healthy. You will also teach them that you will do your best to try and give them the unconditional love they so desperately need.
Eventually you may no longer need the crate. But don't get rid of it. You may need to provide them with a little safe space of their own again in the future.
And don't forget...the minute you let them out of their crate they should go outside to potty. No exceptions. If you don't they will go in the house, and that will be your fault, not theirs.
