Umbilical Training

This method uses your dog's leash and collar, with the leash tied around your waist or attached to your belt loops in a way you find comfortable.  The leash should be long enough to have some slack in it while you are standing and your dog is laying on the floor.  Normally a 6 foot leash would be required for this, depending on your and your dog's height.

This is an excellent article explaining more about it.

Essentially, you are working on bonding, becoming aware of what your dog's cues are that s/he needs to do her/his business, and keeping your puppy company instead of confining him to an area where he is safe but segregated (which is where he should be when you can't be with him.)  Giving a puppy too much freedom isn't fair as he hasn't learned all the rules of the house and will just squat when he gets the urge.  Where is the parenting in this scenario?

Umbilical training should incorporate movement (doing the laundry, tidying the kitchen) to get your puppy used to the feeling of his leash and collar, plus clearing the way for your footfall and give him/her some exercise and stimulation.  It should also involve being stationary, such as watching TV, having coffee, or being on the computer or telephone.  Your puppy can get comfortable while you are stationed, and then give him or her a gentle nudge when it's time to get up, but go STRAIGHT OUTSIDE- after rest and eating are two of the most common times they will need to 'go'.

Once your pup has mastered indoor umbilical training, it can be moved outside and even used on dog walks and runs when s/he is older so your hands are free.

TIPS

• Everyone in the household can take turns attaching the dog to themselves.  This will encourage all to be on the same page with dog training, house breaking and bonding with the new pup.
• The puppy should also have plenty of time not attached to her leash, to learn confinement, independence and give her a rest from too much mental and physical stimulation.  Remember balance!
• Most puppies take weeks to months to house break.  It is key not to punish, get angry or frustrated during this time.  They are babies, and in addition to growing up, adjusting to their world, and to you, we are also asking them to learn a rule about our homes and their natural body functions which goes against their natural instincts.  Be patient.  It will happen.  All of my pups had their last 'accident' in the house by the age of 6 months, but were getting a handle on it by 4-5 months.