Q: I just bought these pups and should have researched training more beforebringing them home. When I first brought them home they relieved themselveseverywhere, however after a week, they are getting better. They still don'tuse the pee pads I have but at least they are not going on the carpet. Ilive in a 3rd floor apt and plan to partition off an area for them with agate and I would like to train them to use an indoor potty place for when Ineed to be gone all day.

Question 1: Will they respond to the grass-like Potty Patch better than thepee pads they just play with.

Question 2A: Would you still recommend I crate train them to help withpotty training.

Question 2B: If I crate train them shall I get one larger crate for both or2 smaller ones for each.

Question 3: They both get car sick so I would like to get the soft cratesthat can double for car traveling as well as airline approved. Would yourecommend these or what would you recommend?

I really appreciate your input!

- Jennifer, Seattle

A: Thank you for your query. Ideally, they should both be outdoor toilet trained with a designated 'potty person' on the long days you are gone. Otherwise, a potty patch is better than pads long term. You will likely still have odor and you may also experience difficulties with toileting in indoor environments other than your home as they will not have a routine or have learned how to 'ask' to go out.

Crates are also wonderful tools for toilet training, travel and a host of other reasons! Consider one for each to prevent too much dependency on each other, and perhaps a second soft set for travel. Since they get car sick, use either the soft crate or wire with a blanket over the top so they can not see out the window.

There is so much to learn about raising a puppy (most especially two!) and this barely scratches the surface, therefore please consider arranging an appointment for a more thorough and hands-on start. We'd love to help you!!!