new puppy

Question
Hello again, I e-mailed you a short time ago re: introducing a westie to our 2-yr.old JR. Your advice was appreciated. I now have one more question re: the new puppy coming later this month. Do you have a preference between a pet carrier or a wire crate for house training purposes? I can't afford both. Are there pros and cons to each? House training will be difficult because both "mom and dad" work during the day. Thanks again for your help.

Answer
Hi Elaine,
My preference is definitely the larger wire crates for inside your home. They sell one that you can make larger as the puppy grows (an extra piece that is removable). You don't want it too large in the beginning because dogs are more likely to "go" in a larger area. The area inside the crate should be large enough for the pup to stretch out, stand up and turn around in, but not run or jump in.
You're right, it is going to be difficult to train your pup if no one is home. They never quite understand what you want of them because during housebreaking, correcting and reprimanding HAS to be done immediately as the pup makes the mistake. They don't know why you're correcting them 5   hours after they made the mistake. Hopefully someone will be able at least, to go at lunchtime to take the puppy out.
Remember too, PRAISE works best - go overboard with the praise when he/she does her business outside!  
Best of luck!