He is golden retriever. We just moved the crate to the kitchen this afternoon so he could use to seeing it and being around it during the day (it was a seperate room off the kitchen). I like the idea of putting his toys in there so he has to go in the crate to get them. I have tried to put him in there when he falls asleep, but he wakes up and gets out right away (or whines/cries immediately if I close the door).

I have heard about using a kong at night...your thoughts.