crate training

Question
I purchased two cocker spaniels (brother/sister) at 7 weeks old, they are now 13 weeks old.  My question is about crate training. I thought I was doing the right steps, but they still have accidents in the house if I am not right there.  They remain in the crate when I am not in the house, they are brough right out as soon as I return home.  I take them out first thing in the morning let them do their business, we go back in within a short time they have an accident in the house.  I expected accidents but this is getting ridiculous.  When I am home they are allowed in two rooms of the house.  I try to watch their ques for having to go out some times they will stand at the back door but never bark. Some times they will come in from the back yard and pee in the house within a half hour.  What am I doing wrong?

Answer
Debbie, a "short time" out isn't enough.  Take them for a 1/2 hour walk (which they need anyway 2x daily).

You'll find on the walk that they'll go multiple times.

At this age they still need to be "taken" out every few hours.  Note I said "taken" not just "let out".  When they go in the appropriate spot, lots of praise and a treat.
You must take them out after every meal and immediately after a nap.

Routine is your friend when training a puppy.  You're kind of expecting them to just "get it" and they won't unless you're totally on top of it and "teach" plus getting them out so often that accidents are at a minimum.

At this age their bladders aren't fully developed so they can't "hold it" for long so don't be too impatient and don't expect them to be able to tell you they have to go.

When you take them out...use the same words "tinkle time" or whatever and when they finally go - praise and reward.
Always be there - they have no idea why they're outside.
I'd suggest you make this your top priority for the next couple of weeks with many walks a day and supervision when in the back yard.
Delores