I leave them in the crate just as long as you do, maybe even a tad bit longer.
Hercules has always done really great with the crate. He only pooped in there one time. Of course he had plenty of peeing accidents, but I completely expected it. He's almost 7 months and does not have accidents very often any more.
Now Athena, the new pup is a completely different story! She pooped in it yesterday and I bet she'll continue to for a few days. She pees, but again, I expect that.
Once they learn the routine of going in there they will learn to hold it.
It sounds like you have some good things in the crate. A lot of people say not to give them rawhide, but I do give them rawhide under supervision. It becomes a problem when it can break into small pieces. So maybe it's not a good idea to have that in the crate. Just in case it breaks into small pieces when you're not there.
I do not feed either dog in the crate. I don't give them water in there either. I know it seems cruel to not give them water, but I also think it's kinda cruel to give them water with no intention of letting them relieve theirself. It's asking for an accident. But that's personal preference.
I have heard of people putting food in the crate as a way to introduce the crate to the pup. But if your's is going in there on his own, or with minmal fighting, then I wouldn't do that.
Also, make sure you take the pup to it's potty place as soon as you let them out of the crate. I've found my new one, Athena, usually won't go immediately, but I still take her there (I think she already did her business in the crate!). And make sure you give tons of praises!!
Good luck and hang in there! It will get better, but it defintely takes time!
