[alaskayorkie]

I used to give all kinds of great advice on this -- until I got a puppy!

I've had Jillie in an x-pen except when I'm watching her, but she always seems to sneak one in when I let my guard down. And I think that's really the secret. Either keep them in the Xpen or don't let your guard down. I read on one behaviorist's web site that you should keep them leashed when they're not in the xpen to make sure you don't miss any. I have a hard time doing that, hence my slow progress. She's almost 7 months. She uses a litter box exclusively in the X-pen. She has no problem going outside. She just doesn't let me know when it's time to go outside.

Good luck! Eddie took 9 months, and he's the smartest dog I've ever owned. I'd be happy with that with Jillie!