[cobird2]

We didn't do crate-training-to-the-very-last-minor-detail but used it to help with potty training...maybe that's why Johnny still has "accidents." It is a help in getting the pup on a schedule. Some withhold water after a certain time after dinner to help with fewer trips outside at night.
Decide if you want your pup to sleep in his crate at night or not and then enforce that. After 2 nights, Johnny stopped barking/crying to get out of his crate and still sleeps there every night. He even goes in his crate by himself when he see me get my keys to go somewhere!
Be consistent.
Wishing you many happy years with your furbaby!