What Crate Size You Should Get
The size of the crate will depend on your German Shepherd and their measurements and weight.
Most kennels online and at stores will have them listed as small, medium, large or extra large based on the crates dimensions in inches or centimeters.
If you need to measure your dog, then do so, just so you can avoid having to exchange it for a different size later.
It can be tricky with German Shepherds because they seem to range significantly in size sometimes, so you should gauge it more off of your individual dog and not the average GSD size.
- The length of the crate should be 2-4 inches longer than the measurement of the dog from the tip of the nose to the tip of the tail.
- Your dog should have plenty of room to stand up.
- They should be able to turn around and lay down fairly comfortably.
- You can purchase a large crate for your GSD when they are a puppy but keep in mind that you will want to use a divider to only allow an appropriate amount of space while they are still small.
Important Tip: Do not get a crate that is much bigger than necessary for your dog .
Having too much space gives them room for accidents.
When a dog is confined to a crate that is the right size, they are much less likely to pee or poop in their crate while youre gone.
If they have the space to go in the corner and be nice and far away from it afterwards, then they will continue to have accidents.
This is clearly a habit you dont want to start.
Sliverylake Xxl Dog Cage Crate Kennel Heavy Duty
This $200-ish crate is significantly stronger than other wire crates on the market but it is by no means bullet proof. While this would be fine for most people and dogs, if you have a dog who really wants to get free they may not escape but they could bend wires. This crate has wheels, a tray, double doors and features a fairly thick, steel frame. Be aware that this crate is 90lbs. A good friend of mine has this and it works out well for him, but according to some Amazon reviews people had to do a little extra work to their unit to ensure paws didnt get stuck.
Features:
- Available as 48x33x37 or 42x29x33
- Rust and corrosion-resistant floor grate
- Top opens for easy access
Zinger Winger DX5000 Deluxe 5000 escape artist Aluminum Crate
After shipping this crate is generally around $925.
This is the last crate you will ever buy and even comes with an escape guarantee. If youre trying to keep a dog locked up who likes to escape, look no further.
Assembly is required for this crate, but once built you have one of the sturdiest crates available which could keep Houdini hostage.
Features:
- Stainless steel lock and key
Choose The Right Crate
Crate training starts with choosing the right crate. With all the information and recommendations we have listed in this article, it should be easier to narrow down your choices.
Wire crates are popular for most dogs however, if you plan on traveling, you want to find an enclosed crate that is durable and easy to transport.
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Frisco Double Door Folding Kennel
- Made of durable wire.
- Foldable and easy to carry.
- Easy-clean plastic pan.
The Frisco Folding Metal Dog Crate is another good pick. The latch is more secure than the MidWest Homes product below, and the crate comes in multiple sizes to best fit your dog. This is also an option if you are looking to crate a husky.
The divider in the crate is optional as well, so you can use this one for both adults and puppies. As is the case with most wire crates, you can fold this one to make storage and transport a bit easier.
The crate is extremely secure. Its a great selection for even the most restless dog that try to escape from even more heavy-duty dog crates. Its equipped with a customizable divider, meaning you can use it from puppyhood through your Shepherds senior years.
We love that this crate is easy to clean through the removable tray at the bottom. Its collapsable and easy to transport/store. Its available in both 36 and 42 inches, making it perfect for GSDs. The secure latches also make it difficult for dogs to escape.
We love that this crate is easy to clean by removing the tray at the bottom. Its collapsable and easy to transport/store. It comes in a variety of sizes, including both 36, 42, and 48 inches. The secure latches make it a great option for escape artist GSDs.
Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel
If you do not want a wire crate, this is the crate for you.
This is the kennel my German Shepherd Aura uses and she flew here from Germany in it via United Airlines. This is a giant dog crate and ideal for travel as it has tie down holes. If you plan on using this crate for airplane travel, you will just need the water bowl for it which is sold as an option.
Its almost $300 but is practically indestructible.
Features:
- 2 Year warranty
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Midwest Ultima Pro Metal Dog Crate
For the first pick, weve chosen the MidWest Ultima Pro Metal Dog Crate.
If youre tired of flimsy, poorly-made crates that easily fall apart after your German shepherd chews on them, then this is the crate for you. This top-of-the-line crate is made from the strongest, thickest wire gauge making it one of the most durable crates on the market.
The front and the side door allow you to access your dog from any angle, and the three slide-bolt latches prevent your pup from escaping. The removable, washable pan makes it easy to clean, and the easy-to-assemble design means you wont have to waste any time putting it or taking it apart.
This crate is available in five different sizes to accommodate German shepherds of any size, but we recommend the 48-inch crate. Dont worry if your dog is still growing the divider panel means you can adjust the size of the crate as your dog grows.
The downside to this crate was that a few dog parents found the divider difficult to put in place. However, dont worry theres a one-year warranty. So if you have any issues, you can always contact customer service.
Pros:
What Size Dog Crate For German Shepherd
There are many factors to consider when choosing a crate for your dog. Some dogs dont mind the wire mesh, while others prefer a softer material like fabric or leather. A small-sized crate is best for puppies and smaller breeds of dogs, whereas medium sized crates are appropriate for bigger canines who have more strength in their legs and joints. If you want to buy an extra large size cage thats big enough to let your canine stretch out completely inside it then go ahead!
The is a 42 inch crate big enough for a german shepherd is a question that is asked often. A 42 inch crate will be large enough for most German Shepherds, but it may not be big enough for the one you are getting.
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Do Crates Help With Training
The use of dog crates is a major way towards the training of our dogs as it will teach them obedience and will assist greatly in potty training. It can provide them with a place of their own which can provide them with a sense of security, as they will treat it as their own place. Just sometimes our dogs just need to go to their own environment which they can escape all of the pressures in daily life.
The use of crates is a great way of training a puppy and teaching them the rules in which they should follow.
Use Metal Kennels For The Big Breeds
While a plastic kennel or a soft-sided kennel is an option for smaller dogs, stick with a metal kennel for dogs that weigh 90 pounds or more. Non-metal kennels may suffer damage from a big dog getting excited or deciding to test its strength.
At the largest end of the kennel size range are extra-large and jumbo-size kennels. Extra-large kennels are around 48 inches long and can fit dogs that weigh between 90 and 110 pounds, such as Alaskan malamutes, German shepherds, and bloodhounds. Jumbo kennels are about 54 inches long and suited for dogs weighing over 110 pounds, such as Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and mastiffs.
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Best Dog Crate For A Goldendoodle With Sizing Guide
Alison Page | CratesGoldendoodle
A dog crate provides a safe den where your pup can feel safe and secure when you go out and leave him home alone. Crates are also very useful for potty training and can provide a place for your Goldendoodle to sleep at night.
But what size crate to choose for a Goldendoodle? What kind of crates are there? And whats the best dog crate to buy?
Read this comprehensive guide for the full lowdown on dog crates for Goldendoodles!
Choosing The Right Crate For Your Gsd
There are three things that I find important when looking for dog crates.
Firstly, not all crates are the same! Some are meant for traveling and others are better for in-home use.
Some are easy to clean and others not so much.
Here are the three main factors that owners need to consider when looking for dog kennels for their GSD.
- Your dogs activity and energy levels
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German Shepherd Crate Size
A dog crate should be large enough that the dog can easily turn around inside without bumping into the sides. The dog should also be able to sit up in the crate without having to crouch or lower its head. In addition, dogs should be able to lie down in the crate and stretch out their paws.
Adult German shepherds can weigh between 50 and 90 pounds and usually grow to between 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder, with males growing slightly larger and taller than females.
This means theyll need a crate thats at least 42 inches long, although a crate thats at least 48 inches long is even better. Usually, crates of this length are considered to be an extra-large size, although even bigger crates are available. Forty-two-inch crates are usually around 30 inches wide and tall.
Dog Crate Sizing Chart
Choosing the proper size dog crate for your dog is not as simple as small, medium, or large. This decision should involve a number of considerations including gender, the possibility of mixed ancestry, age, and even the personality of your dog. Depending on these factors, its possible that your dog will need a crate that is larger or smaller than what is typical for their breed. However, this dog crate sizing chart will give you a good baseline to understand the proper size crate for an adult dog of each breed. From there, you can adjust based on additional factors.
It is also important to keep in mind that there are many varieties of dog crates available today. You have your choice of wire, plastic, soft side, rolling soft side, decorative wicker dog crates and wooden dog crate end tablesalso known as dog crate furniture. Some of these will be adjustable in size so you can use them when your dog is a puppy, then take out pieces to grow with your adult dog. It is also important to consider any other items that you will be putting in the crate with your dog such as water bowls, bedding, toys, or even another dog.
Please consult your veterinarian for additional guidance if necessary.
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How Big Should A Dog Crate Be
It is important to get the size of your dogs crate right. It shouldnt be too cramped, but it shouldnt offer too much space, either.
Your dog should be able to turn around easily and sit up without hitting her head on the top. She should also be able to stretch out her legs when lying on her side. Dogs need leg room, too!
Dog owners often buy crates that are too large to give their dog lots of extra space, but this actually detracts from the crates usefulness as a training tool. For example, crates can be used for house training, but if your dog has too much room in her crate, she could end up using one corner as a bathroom.
Whats more, crates can give your pooch a feeling of security, which your dog wont be feeling if she has lots of empty space around her.
So, what size dog crate do you need?
More Top Rated German Shepherd Crates
Lets take a look at the last three models well be recommending today. All three of these crates are top rated and sure to be ideal for your German Shepherd. Lets look at the pros and cons of each of them, starting with:
Sizes Available: Small, Medium, Large, XL, XXL, XXXL
This heavy-duty, aluminum crate is ideal for strong dogs who need a bit of room to relax.
Pros:
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Remove Their Toys Beds Blankets And All Of The Objects From Their Crate
First, youll need to clear out the crate of all of their items. Set the items to the side and wipe down their toys, cleaning them regularly with pet-safe disinfectant if they have any urine or feces on them. Set the toys aside and move on to the next step your dogs bedding.
While youre cleaning their toys, inspect the items for any signs of deterioration and tear and remove them if necessary. You can find some great toys for German Shepherds to replace the old, worn-out ones.
Buying The Best Crate For Your German Shepherd What To Really Know
Dog crates are widely available and provide an open den area that many German Shepherds like to use as a safe place. Crates are also useful training aids to help puppies learn to be left alone or to encourage house training but crates should never be used as a punishment.
Because a crate will become your dogs very own private bedroom, dont skimp on quality with the safety and comfort of your dog.
My top 3 picks for crates for a German Shepherd include the following:
Determine the strength of the crate you need for your German Shepherds disposition and energy level. Most importantly, train your German Shepherd to not just like their crate
But to love it!
Crates provide your dog with a strong, secure, escape-proof enclosure while giving them their own private den. Buy the most suitable crate that you can afford, keeping your dogs personality in mind.
Remember, the best crate for a German Shepherd is one that you and your dog are both happy and comfortable to use with safety at the forefront.
Follow these useful crate buying tips and you and your German Shepherd will be a happy team!
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What Size Crate For A German Shepherd: The Best Options For Big Dogs
January 13, 2020 By Meg Austwick
Are you wondering, what size crate for a German Shepherd dog is best?
The best German Shepherd crate size is usually either 42 or 48. But, it will depend on the size of your individual GSD.
Like any breed, male German Shepherds are often larger than females. So males will often need slightly bigger crates.
Its best to buy the right sized adult crate, even from puppyhood. You can simply use a crate divider whilst your dog is growing to its full size.
Products included in this article were carefully and independently selected by the Happy Puppy Site team. If you decide to make a purchase from one of the links marked by an asterisk, we may earn a small commission on that sale. This is at no extra cost to you.
Luckup Heavy Duty Metal Dog Crate For Large Dogs
Perfect size for large Goldendoodles
Strong, high-quality build
If you have a very large dog, youll love the benefits offered by the LUCKUP Heavy-Duty dog crate.
The crate is made from corrosion, rust-resistant steel, and is built to last. The surface is finished in silver with black crackle detail for a smart look. There are two secure locks with safety latches on the crates double door to prevent your dog from opening the door and escaping. The open design provides plenty of ventilation for your pet, which is perfect in warm weather.
The crate sits on 360-degree locking casters that enable easy relocation. Theres a removable plastic tray that helps to catch accidents and food spills, making cleaning the crate a breeze.
Although the crate does require assembly, the process is simple, and everything you need is included with the hardware pack that comes with the crate.
PROS
- Not available in small sizes
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Midwest Homes Xxl Crate
About: Do you have a big best buddy at home? If so, youll need an enormous crate like this option from Midwest Homes to contain your canine. The huge, heavy-duty crate is designed for giant breeds like Great Danes and features single or double door versions to meet your needs.
Features:
- These crates are roomy enough to comfortably contain most large and giant dogs.
- Owners reported that this crate seemed strong and secure enough for big puppers.
- The double-door option provides additional access and convenience.
Cons
- This wire dog crate weighs about 80 pounds, so its certainly not the most portable option.
- This crate is huge, so make sure you have room for it before buying.