I left water for Finn in his crate once he was potty trained. And if you're leaving food in there until Chad gets up, that wouldn't be too bad. Just a few hours in the morning wouldn't be that difficult. I wouldn't leave food in there all day, though, especially if you're trying to housebreak them. I hope you still consider a behaviorist, even though the shock collar has worked. It might help understand a lot of things (especially now that he's bitten you). Hopefully, you can do like someone else mentioned and eventually just put the collar on without actually turning it on. Sounds like they are both happier, though!