Potty-training new puppy

Question
My husband and I just bought a 3-month old beagle pup two days ago and he's doing great personality-wise, but we are a little concerned with his potty habits.

He will go outside if you happen to catch him when he's ready to go, but at times, we'll take him outside three times within the hour and then he'll come in and poop/pee in the house.

We have a crate for him, but he poops in there now, which I'm wondering if it's too big.

Do you have any advice on how to be consistent with him?  I understand it's only been 2-days, but my main concern was that he's going to the bathroom inside of his "den" which I came to understand dogs don't do that.  Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Deana

Answer
His crate may be to large. He should have enough room to stand up turn in a circle and lay down. If he has move room you can put old pillow in the back of it to make it smaller. It is always wiser to get a crate the size he will be when he is full grown then to keep buying crates as he grows. He shouldn't go in his crate. It may be to large or he may not be able to hold it when he is in there.
Does he know what the word "potty" means? Whenever he goes to the bathroom (outside of course) tell him to go potty before and during the act. When he does praise him and give him a treat. Soon you will be able to tell him to go potty and he will do it.
It sounds like he doesn't understand yet that he is going outside to go potty. And that is understandable at this stage. If he doesn't go potty outside bring him back in and watch him like a hawk (do not let him out of your sight) and if he starts to go stop him and take him outside. Tell him to go potty and then praise him for going outside.
It sounds like you are doing everything right but, now he just needs time and training.
Fellow beagle lover,

Kenny