[Jane Austen]

Michael's answer about getting rid of the crate may not be all that bad. If you don't find the root of the trouble and the crate obsession continues it could reinforce the dogs attitude toward the other members of the household. It may be beneficial to break the cycle.
I agree that everything should be done to find out the cause and everyone should work toward eliminating the dogs angst. Until that happens, leaving the situation the same won't help.