Nicki was terrible about whining and crying when she was a puppy... thats why she lasted only a few weeks in the crate - I couldn't take the crying. Lucky for me, she was FABULOUS about not doing any business in the house. We left her contained to one puppy-proof room (as puppy proof as possible, no wire to chew, etc.) when we weren't home so that she felt as if she had some freedom.

Puppies have a lot of energy (gee, surprise surprise) and need to run around a lot. Have you tried walking her in the mornings to use up some of that energy? Nicki became such a great dog once I started walking her 5 or 6 miles a day (and I became skinny) She knew the walk schedule and it gave me a reason not to be lazy and lull around in bed. It sounds as if you get up nice and early and dedicate a great deal of time to her - how about spending that time outside (unless the weather is too bad.) I would walk her first thing in the morning, as soon as i got home at night and again before bed. She knew the schedule and I think this helped in her not making any messes in the house. PoorNicki's too old now to walk that far and that often but she still loves our walks.

I know I rambled, but I hope maybe this might help... I know it helped us A LOT as Nicki was especially active and hyper. People hated her because hse was so big and boisterous. Oh, one more thing I found that was a god-send - the dog park. I drove 30 minutes each way, but it was the best thing for her... it taught her to come upon command and to stay nearby without a leash. Also the socializing was great.