Yep, micki and karen have some good advice. She shouldn't potty in her crate because dogs have instincts to not soil their den. If she does, that may mean that she has too much room. But, if she's a pet store pup, she just may have been confused for the first few nights because being in a cage 24/7 tends to take over the instincts for a couple nights.

About the housebreaking, remember, all dogs are different. Never hit your pup no matter how slowly you two are moving along. Hitting your pup will only teach her to fear you. It took my pup AGES to be reliable in the house. He wasn't reliable until he was 9-10 months! We weren't consistant in the beggining though, and that's something you want. If she does soil in the house, say a stern "NO!" then take her outside. Everytime she soils outside, you go crazy. Pretend you just won the lottery or something. Maybe even a little treat? Kai got a little nibble everytime he went outside. When she does soil, remember to absolutely clean the spot and scent. I like to clean with any cleaner safe for animals then cover it with half water half vinegar. The vinegar covers the scent making sure that she won't soil on the same spot.

Our vet told us that if she sees you cleaning it, she'll make it a game for the two of you. I've never heard of that until he told us so it may be something to consider.

Oh yes, you should take her out of her crate more. Since the pup is recent new addition to the family, now may be a good time to let her bond with you. Kai only went in his crate at night and when I could absolutely not watch him. It's fine to let her out as long as you keep her in your eyesight. Many people attach their leashes to their belts and keep their dog close to them. That way, they're always there to correct any soiling.

As for going outside, like micki said, it's alright to go outside as long as you don't meet other dogs. Staying in your yard should be fine.

Anyways, good luck!