My shepherd mix was neutered by rescue around 3 months. He NEVER EVER lifted his leg til I adopted the spayed sheltie female. Immediately after, he started lifting. Cubby my sable pup is now 11-1/2 months. He was neutered a couple weeks ago. He has never lifted even though he sees the female squat and the shepherd lift. He stands and pees like a racehorse so far.
As to potty training, be persistent and go back to basics and potty training. Do give him plenty of times to go out. Girls seem to hold it much longer and perhaps you are asking too much of him.