I havent used the crate at all. Couldn't handle locking her in... it's almost barbaric
so I just watched her and took her out every other hour. Accidents still happen occasionally but otherwise we are managing it
Don't agree with the crate being the only solution. They are very intelligent small animals that just want you to be happy. So if your puppy see that you get angry when she poos inside and happy when she does it outside she will try her hardest
It's amazing how much they understand ... but don't forget - they have a very very very small bladder so dont be too hard