Yes, I also got my baby gate at Target in the baby section for $10. The ones in the pet section were $35 and up. Ridiculous. They recommend not putting the pee pad in the crate because then they will confuse it with it being ok to go potty in the crate. I have done it both ways. I think if you are going to leave her with the crate in a larger open space then definitely have the pee pad outside of the crate. So she will learn that the place to go potty is on the pad OUTSIDE of the crate and that the crate is for sleeping, etc. I have crate trained both of my pups and believe me it is a chore and it is not easy but you won't be sorry for putting the time and the patience into it in the long run. I am still in the middle of training my 2nd pup and he isn't taking to it as quickly as my 1st pup but he is getting better and better each day.
8 hours is a long time for the pup to be by herself but I know it can't be prevented due to your work schedule. Be sure she has food and lots of fresh water in her xpen or the room you leave her in. I bet down the road....you end up getting another pup to keep her company when you are gone. That's just my prediction.
They are very addictive and so loving, aren't they?
Good Luck!
