Hi! What about getting your puppy an Xpen and then putting the smaller crate *inside* the Xpen.. w/a really comfy blankey or bed that way he knows that the small crate is his sleep area and will learn to potty elsewhere. I really like the Nature's Miracles Puppy Pads.. they actually smell like grass to train the dog to eventually pee outside as well. They're super thick and absorbant and I haven't noticed them smelling. I'd just change it as soon as you get home.
I think I have a picture of my set up when I used my Xpen a lot. It doesn't show the entire pen, but I set the food/water up on one side.. a basket of toys on the other and a puppy bed. I didn't use the crate because Bentley was already crate trained, but I think for you putting it in would be a great idea!
Good luck!!
