We did a lot of research on training before buying our dog (pure bred Springer Spaniel).
Crate training was highly recommended from many sources. A crate will eventually feel like a "den" to a dog. Once they grow accustomed to it, they feel secure and safe, allowing them to supress the subtle instinct to be wary of predators. The key is to train them as early as possible. Never, never, never let them out of the crate because they are crying (unless its potty time, see below).
Our pup only cried for one night and was fine after that. The trick: leave the crate wide open and easily accessible to pup. Put toys in it. Allow them to enter and exit the crate at their own leisure. Throw toys in - let them know the crate isn't something to be afraid of. Also, the crate should be just big enough to allow them to turn around and lay down.
Our dog is over two years old now and his crate is in our room. He often sleeps in it all night with the door wide open. He considers it his "den". Sometimes he will take naps in it. We call it his bedroom.
For potty training, many sources we found suggested clapping your hands loudly, close to the ears, and shouting "NO!" while they have been caught in the act. They did not recommend scolding pups if you don't catch them in the act. This method worked wonders for our pup. He would literally *jump* and stop, then we'd pick him up and put him outside where he would finish. We also used the pads.
Also be wary of timing for potty training. The age, size and feeding schedule will determine how often they will need to go. Food can also be a factor. Find a brand that they enjoy and consistently results in solid stool.
Of course, these methods depend greatly on the intelligence and stubborness of the dog. Some dogs won't be scared of a loud clap next to their ears and will just stare at you. Others will never learn to accept a crate as their den.
P.S. STFU Mobius. I have seen people get bitten by apparently "good dogs" using such a method.
