Alone in Crate

by Angie
(central Washington state)

Lakyn is about a 3 year old Great Pyrenees rescue. When we first got her she was very clingy to us, and followed us around the house. Now we have had her about 4 months and she has learned all of the rules and is doing well. She is is more obedient, and really a good dog. When we first got her we would crate her when we were both gone. She didn't like it at first but eventually didn't fight it and would go in willingly for a treat. We would never leave her for more than 1 1/2 hours. The crate is in a different room because it is x-large and didn't fit in the other rooms.
Now about 4 months later, she will go into the other room into her crate on her own. When we are in the family room she will sneak into her crate and spend hours in there. I notice she is missing and when I find her in her crate she is laying there, her eyes are open and she won't come out unless coaxed.
We used to put her in the bedroom at night when we slept and close the bedroom door, she slept good and was quiet. Now we leave the bedroom door open, and she starts out sleeping in our room but will leave and go into her crate later in the night.

She still eats and likes to go to the dog park and for walks. But I am wondering if she is depressed? I am wondering if she needs a playmate. She is currently our only pet. Also, I thought having a dog would be good company, but when she spends so much time in another room, its not much company. Should I close the crate door so she cannot go in and see what happens?