We got 2 new pups in the fall. In short: feed 3x a day, a small amount each time. That gets them on a regular pooping schedule. Water all the time. Crates - we never did this before but it has been a Godsend. They sleep in their crates and are in their crates when we are not home - but we are retired, so we are not leaving them crated for hours at a time. They love nylabones and will chew their heads off. Have fun!