I'm having a problem crate training my 12 week old border collie/samoyed. I have him on a feeding schedule; I feed him at 6am, noon and again at 6pm, when he goes to bed he gets a buscuit. He gets water pretty much whenever he wants, but only about an ounce at a time, because he just knocks the dish over. So I only give him another ounce when he finishes that one. I play with him in the kitchen for 30-45 mins after each meal, and 2 other times throughout the day. The problem that I am having is that I work at home, so when he wakes up (about every hour) and hears me on the computer or about the house, he screams and cries. He can make it through the night, most nights, without having to go outside, but during the day he cries every hour. I know with crate training you aren't supposed to run to the puppy when he cries but how do I know if he's crying just to get out, or if he really needs to go to the bathroom? And do 3 month old puppies need to go every HOUR? I don't want to teach him that when he cries (and doesn't have to pee) that I will come running. But I also don't want to ignore him and get him going to the bathroom in his crate.

I'm so confused <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" /> Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

You should always let the puppy out to potty after:
He eats
He plays/exercises
He wakes up

If he sleeps for an hour and wakes up, take him out, but JUST TO GO POTTY, then right back in the crate. No playing, no treats...etc.

Play with him when YOU want to take a break. Let him go potty, water him, back in the crate.

The food schedule sounds reasonable, but he doesn't need access to water all day long. Give him water when you feed him, or take him out to play, that should be plenty. If 6pm is your last feeding, no more water after about 8pm.

Hope this helps a little, and best of luck to you.

The more 'routine' and controlled you make things, the easier it will be for both of you.