Crate training is very effective in housetraining a new puppy. You need to first buy a crate. I like metal crates because they are easy to clean. It is recommended that you get a crate that will fit the dog when he is an adult. It is essential though that you block off much of the crate using dividers that are sold for this purpose or with boxes such that the puppy has only enough room to lie down in the crate. Otherwise he may soil an outer corner.

    The crate should have a nice washable soft pad or blanket and a favorite toy. There are many good books that detail crate training, but basically, until the puppy is trustably trained to go outside, he should be in the crate whenever you cannot closely supervise him. Keep in mind though, that this should not exceed two-three consecutive hours unless it is overnight. Never use the crate as punishment!

    Housebreaking a dog using crate training:

    Always take the puppy out to the same spot on a leash shortly after eating or drinking. Do not play with him outside till after he has eliminated. The time period will vary depending on your dog and the type of food he's eating. Make a schedule to keep him on of eating and drinking so he and you develop predictable routines. Keeping a schedule will help eliminate accidents after the pup gets settled into the routine.

    Also, be alert and take him out any time you see him sniffing the floor a lot or circling and other behaviors that you will come to associate with your pups need to go outside. Remember to watch him closely while still establishing the schedule and to crate him when you cannot.

    Develop some cue for the dog to let you know when he needs to go outside such as sitting by the door. Attach a phrase to fit, and lavishly reward the dog with lots of praise when he uses it. Similarly, when the dog is preparing to go, sniffing back and forth, use a phrase such as "hurry up" said softly so eventually he will go on command. As he begins to do his business, praise him. When he finishes, give him a small treat or a pat on the head. Then, take him inside for some play time. Don't let him frolic outside until he's fully trained because you want him to associate outside with house training. Do not put him back in the crate till he has had a little play time.

    Do not punish the puppy for accidents. Instead reprimand yourself for not watching him properly. Quietly clean up without fussing at pup (using a product like Nature's Miracle) and resolve to watch him more carefully in the future.

    At first, the puppy should be crated anytime you cannot directly supervise him. If you are in the house perhaps clip his lead to your belt so he is always right with you. Gradually, time outside the crate can be increased as can letting the pup into various areas of your house. Perhaps start with the crate and the kitchen, and move to the family room, and so on as your pup develop control and know the difference between outside and the rest of their new "den."

    Do not get discouraged if an accident occurs. Just step back and reevaluate to make sure you are not giving the pup too much freedom too soon. Remember he is still a baby and will forget at times. If caught in the act pick him up and take him outside. Praise him after he finishes outside. NEVER put a puppy in his crate for having an accident.