[Gracie2006]

I am not sure why you are using the crate for a potty place. The intent of the crate is to provide a snuggly, secure place for baby to sleep. Dogs naturally do not want to soil their den, so this is a big help with potty training. I have an ex-pen for Gracie, with a crate inside. Her pee pads are out in the ex-pen, along with her food and toys. The crate is only for quiet time and she now knows that. It might be that your baby is just not feeling secure yet. At that age, they fear abandonment. After all, they were just taken away from their mom and litter mates. I'm not so sure that she wants to play as much as she wants to be near you. It might not be too late to teach her to use the crate as a sleep place. Once she gets used to the crate, you might consider crating her in your bedroom so she is not lonely. Lots of exercise, games and attention during the hours you are home will help too.