Doesn't matter if it's a small crate. If they need to poop they will. Moki had the same problem. I'm a firm believer in outdoor potty. But I gave in cuz I needed sleep. And figured he's just to young at the moment. He goes on is reusable potty pad almost 100% or at least near it
. So I would train the pup to at least go on a pad. Then work out side. Outside he will go if I see the sign otherwise it's the pad JME