I have always had crates for my dogs. My husband was originally against it. However, he changed his mine after seeing them go in - on their own and take a long nap or even a rest. They have beds too, but prefer their crates most of the time. It is there "safe place' and they don't like to share them.
When I am leaving the house, they go to their crates own their own.
Crates are not mean. It is there own "den" of safety and security.