i don't think that it's impossible to train them not to go in the crate but it does make it harder. i agree the easiest (though it's the most time consuming) is to take them out every hour in addition to after meals, play time and naps. this starts a routine.
when they're out their give them a signal word for them to do their business, like "hurry" or "go potty". once they go praise them. try to write down at what times they went to give you an idea of how often you need to take them out. |