Well, it's that time again. He actually did well last night. I didn't let him nap after dinner and ran his little butt into the ground playing. He whined a bit when he went in his play yard, but fell asleep quickly - thank goodness! He spends a lot of time right next to me in his crate (with the door hanging open) while I am working during the day and it is my preference to have him sleep in there overnight, but I will ease him into it. His play yard is spacious, but not too big, with a nice comfy bed. It is a mesh, octagon shape and I got one 36" tall with a cover that zips around the top. He won't be able to hurt himself by jumping out or over. I have talked to his breeder and she gave the same advice as many of you - crate, next to my bed so he can see/smell me and be patient.
I just hate how he throws himself around it there, scratching at the metal door. The vet suggested covering the crate opening with a towel or blanket and then closing the door so if he scratches he won't catch a nail.