Getting frustrated..Won't go outside

My Ernie is just about 9 months old. My husband and I are having no success at teaching him to go outside to use the bathroom. He wakes us up every morning, between 5:30 and 6:00 am. We can walk him around for half an hour and he will go wee-wee outside most of the time, but as far as the other-- he always waits until we come back inside. I try to watch him while getting ready for work so I can catch him in the act-- but he is very sneaky! Sometimes he will cry to go outside, and we'll go and he does his business. But other times, he will just stop and go anywhere. We love Ernie very much, but it is very frustrating to spoil him so much, yet he won't respect our one wish, TO GO OUTSIDE!! If you've had any experience with this, we would greatly appreciate some advise. Many thanks!
Ernies mom

• I know it must be frustrating for both of you. Well look at it this way at least he is 1/2 house broken! My guess is that he is not being given enough time to relieve himself. I have a female that has to find the "perfect" spot and will circle around and around even till she is dizzy before pooping. Some dogs NEVER give a warning that they have to go out. Others will stand by the door, or cry to be let out. Keeping your dog on a tight schedule and remember to let the pup out after eating, drinking, playing, sleeping etc. If you can't keep an eye on him put him back in his crate!! Make sure the area where he does go is cleaned well! Using vingar & water will help destroy the odor. He should also be corrected. If you catch him in the act, say NO BAD DOG!! and promptly place him outside. Clean up the mess without him seeing you. If you haven't seen him leave his pile but find the evidence later, again bring him to the area and tell him NO BAD DOG! You can gently shake his scruff (neck) area. Good Luck and hang in there with a little more patience and time he will get there!
  Pug

• You say above if he poops you should clean up the mess without him seeing you. Why shouldn't he see you clean up the mess he made?
  Mitch

• Hello Mitch, Sometimes if a dog "sees" their owner cleaning up after them they tend to think it is "ok--the maid will ALWAYS take care of it. So then the dog will keep doing his business because you are taking care of the "den"/house chores. Hope this makes sense to you.
  Pug