he he, I wish Lil was a puppy sometimes they are just easier to tell things to and they might listen. I know it doesn't help you with Darwin.

Okay the first thing to do is harden your heart before you try to crate him. It is actually worse if you are trying to do it and give in than if you never try. So first You have the crate right? In it you have a snuggley (blanket, towel, once i had a dog that commandeered a kitchen rug), a toy or two, a small way to get water and lastly a piddle pad right? (yeah I know how much does one dog need) I find knowing the dog has everything it needs in its crate helps me not let it back out again. I am a push over for cute sad puppy faces.

Don't expect the first night to be perfect. Also prep teh boy first telling him it will be loud and he is not to chicken out. On this point I would if he is the type go for the manly he needs to toughen up approach. If you think that might work, you know your boys best.

Also if he is a howler like he was the first night, you may need sets of ear plugs for you both. the thing to remember is he really isn't being skinned by purple aliens even if he thinks he is.

I hope that helps.