Hi, Junecpg.
Yes, dogs can learn from each other. Years ago, our cocker trained our shepherd puppy not to go upstairs (or down into the basement), not to jump up on the kitchen table, and (not all lessons were good) to bark at the mailman!
In obedience class, when being proofed individually, the dogs carefully watch. If one dog gets caught out by a distraction, the next dog will usually ignore that distraction. It is fun to watch them learn from each other.
Will Sparkie learn from the older dog where it is proper to toilet? Don't depend on it. It will probably help him learn, but you are talking about an 8-wk old here. Your best bet is to have him surrounded by papers until he goes. Take him there on waking (anytime he naps), after eating or drinking, and after playtime. If you crate him whenever you are unable to watch him (or leave him in a place completely covered with newspaper), you shouldn't have any accidents. Don't expect such a young dog to go to the paper on his own. At some point, you can gradually reduce the number of papers in the spot where you toilet him. If he uses the uncovered spot, return to a totally covered area for a few more days. If he only uses the papers, you can gradually reduce the number until you are at the size you want his toilet spot to be. Don't hurry it. You want him always to be right. I think it takes children a little longer than 4 days to learn to use the toilet properly. Be patient and he will finally learn.
Good luck.
kjd
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