I have not read all the posts, so some of this might be rep. I would either close the dog in the kitchen or get an ex-pen so that it has room to move around. Put down papers or piddle pads, water, and food. Also, leave the tv or a radio playing on a talk station on low so that the dog does not feel like it is alone. Also, leave toys. Get a Kong and fill it with peanut butter and give that when you leave so that the pup has something to keep it interested in for a while. Also, put a bed in its area or even the creat leaving it open so that the dog can use it as a den.

This may be an option for you:

Walmart.com: IRIS 4 Panel Indoor/Outdoor Plastic Pen White: Dogs

Good luck!

RE:
 

Thank you for all of your wonderful suggestions.

Here's a quick clarification and update.

We got Zoe on March 26th. The first week she was home one of us (husband or myself) stayed home with her. The second week my mom came over at lunch time (11 am until abt 11:45 am) and then she came back at 4:30pm. Zoe does great with this routine. She never potties in the crate (she's only pottied in it twice since we've had her)
The third week there was 2 days where we couldn't come home and I couldn't find anyone to come visit her..so she was crated all day....but surprisingly she did great. The second day she had a rougher time. She has not (and hopefully will not) be crated that long ever again...it was circumstantial and I hated it completely....

We have done lots of research and talked to experts, (breeders, petcare people, this forum) etc. and we are doing everything we can to make sure we handle her appropriately and healthily. We finally found some treats that she actually likes and so training is getting a lot easier...she is so cute, she will potty and look back at you like "see me???" ha ha. But she knows what "treat" is and is learning that she only gets treats when she potties outside.

It is getting easier and she is finally getting acclimated. She's so fun and full of life. And she's a Mama's girl. :D

Thanks for all of your suggestions. There are some really great ideas. And for those of you fussing at me, just know, I would never treat this baby wrong...we are doing all we can...and getting help when we can't. :) We are learning as we go!!

Glad to hear things are going well. It really is to your credit you took off work the first week, had someone stopping by during the day. I'm sure you will enjoy this breed very much! Since I got my first yorkie 14 years ago, I just fell in love with these little ones - as I'm sure you have already done. Please keep in touch and if you get a chance - we absolutely love baby pics! :aimeeyork:)