We crate trained Bella but we got her in June so that my 16 year old could continue to work with her throughout the summer. She was 12 weeks old when we got her. She caught on very quickly and within a week she was going to the door but as far as having accidents it took until about 6 months before she was completely trust worthy. She definitely took a little longer than our Lab. It's going to be harder for you to crate train since you'll be at work all day. I would definitely keep him in an x-pen during the day when you're at work because he can't hold it that long at such a young age. How old is he by the way? Since the breeder has started the crate training I would follow whatever method he/she is using so that you don't confuse him, it will be familiar to him. In MHO crate training is the fastest and best way to potty train, I would never use another method. You should be able to find a lot of information on crate training in the training forums on this site as this has been brought up a lot. Just be very consistent and give LOTS of praise when he does what he's supposed to do, he'll really respond to that. Good luck
