I deal with this a lot with our adoption group.

- Don't only crate when you leave. Pick random times, toss a treat in there and have him in the crate when you're home. This avoids the whole you leave=the crate bad association.

- Make the crate the best place on earth! All treats, food, etc. happen in the crate (this can be temporary, until he's used to it). Never use the crate as punishment.

- Make sure he's getting enough exercise - a tired dog is a happy dog!

- Don't give in to the whining. This is sort of like a little kid thing too - if you let into the whining and let him out of the crate, he'll keep trying to use that to get out. So when you come home, if he's carrying on and crying, ignore him until he calms down. As soon as he's calm, he can come out.

- Learn the difference between true crate anxiety (heavy panting, trying to escape, urinating or pooping in the crate), and the above whining to get what they want. True crate anxiety means you may need some other means of confining him until he's housebroken.

- Housebreaking is all about vigilance and consistency. If you allow him the chance to sneak away and pee, he will. Most dogs don't have "signs" right off the bat, so you'll have to keep on him like a hawk. The second he starts peeing in the house, a quick "NO!", and then leash him up and take him outside to finish and praise like heck. The more accidents he has inside, the more confused he's going to be about appropriate bathroom behaviors.

Hope that helps! PM if you have any other questions.