[mscat]

I am not a fan of crate training either... Maybe for bigger puppies it is necessary , because they will destroy all your stuff. BUt, for the toy dogs, I believe in either closing off an area for the dog to be safe in, or use a expen. Potty pads have a scent that dogs are attracted to , which makes it easier to train . Take the dog to the potty pads just when he wakes up, eats , or starts lifting his leg, just pick him up and put him there. Place the pads where he might often go potty and be presistent.
I have trained 2 of my dogs , and working on a third now. I feel extra strongly about a puppy mill dog who has already spent most of his time caged.