Training a crested for me has always been an easy task when it comes to potty training. But through the process of trial and error here are a few tips that make the process easier.
#1 Kenneling is an almost sure way to teach them to do their business in a designated place. Cresteds are naturally cat like clean dogs, and they do not appreciate being locked up with their dirty business. If you kennel them simply take them out immediately after being kenneled and put them where they they need to go whether it be on the pee pee pads or outside. Let them play after that and repeat the process. Encourage them when they do go in the proper place. If they decide not to go, put them back in the kennel.
#2 Fencing (my personal choice). Puppies shouldn’t be left to roam about the house without supervision. They are small, they can choke, get trampled (if you have kids or large dogs), fall down stairs, eat something dangerous, etc… They should always have a designated area where they are protected when you are not watching. I like to have a set up of a small fenced area, big enough for the bed, food and water and a tray with dog litter. I don’t use Pee-Pee pads because some puppies like to pick them up and chew them. The littler is safe, absorbent and easy to clean. They also feel natural in digging in it as they would outside. I put the bed immediately next to the littler box. as they step out, they end up right in there. Since they dont like to pee where they sleep its only natural for them to go on the litter. Your breeder should already have them well on the way to this process. After a week in your home or when you feel the dog is comfortable expand your play pen to have extra room. This time the dog will need to make a decision on where he goes. If he has too many accidents go back to the old plan for another week. Remember to clean up any accidents well so they do not smell that its a potty area. Let them out to play only after they do their business and put them back in when you think its time for them to go again.
#3 Taking your dog outside. This is only AFTER the dog has had all of its required shots. At this time the easiest is kenneling, but both methods can work. If you have your pup fenced, just take the dog outside when you think its time but dont get rid of the litter for a least a week. You can leave it overnight until they are a little older and remove it during the day time. You will need to take puppy outside every 2 hours in the beginning to catch the process. If you dont leave the overnight littler remember you will need to wake up in the middle of the night and take him outside. They can not hold it through the whole night otherwise. By 4-5 months of age your dog should have no problem holding it through the night as long as you wake up early to take them out.