Are All German Shepherds The Same
Generally, there are two types of GSD show dogs and working dogs with seven distinct lines overall. Although each line was bred to exhibit a different body type, color, personality, and vigor, on average, you can expect your GSD to stand 22; to 26 inches tall and weigh anywhere between 45 and 88 pounds.
- American and Canadian show lines have German heritage; however, they have been bred with American dogs to maintain a consistent body style and color pattern in line with AKC and CKC standards.
- American-bred pet lines have the same body type and personality as show dogs but were bred primarily for companionship from registered purebreds.
- West German show lines are typically red with a black saddle. In addition to having a specific appearance and gait, they are expected to exhibit agility and obedience skills.
- West German working lines are direct descendants of the Max von Stephanitz GSDs, who were bred primarily for temperament and personality.
- East German working lines were bred for workability and are usually darkly colored with features more resembling wolves.
- Czech working lines were bred specifically to patrol the Czech border and have larger heads and thicker paws. These extremely agile and protective dogs are mostly black with some shades of red and tan.
First Choose The Right Dog Crate
Size
You can approach size in a few different ways.
- One crate that you use to house train your puppy and get rid of it when your dog becomes an adult.
- A crate for your puppy and subsequent crates as your dog outgrows them
- A large crate that fits what you anticipate your dogs adult size will be You use a crate that has dividers equipped or compartmentalizes your kennel to your pups size using handy items like cushions, blankets, or cardboard.
The size of your pups crate is most important when you are housebreaking her. She should be able to stand up, turn, and lay down comfortably, but you do not want her to have sufficient room to go to the bathroom in a corner.
To cater a crate to your puppys size, measure your pet when she is sitting for the height of the kennel. Add six inches to your final measurement from the top of your dogs head to the floor.
Then as she stands, measure from her nose to the end of her pelvis to get the crates length. Again, add five or six inches.
Once you have house trained your German Shepherd, you can be more generous in the amount of space she has in her kennel.
Style
Style is not only a consideration for aesthetics but also involves practical concerns.
Additional tips to take under advisement are to design your crate more around your puppys needs than to your sense of style.
Plastic carriers are among the most versatile and affordable options. They offer decent coverage for dogs who need a more closed-in crate to feel comfortable.
Carlson Pet Products Metal Crate
- Made from durable steel.
The Carlson Pet Products Secure and Foldable Single Door Metal Dog Crate is another strong contender for one of the best dog crates for German Shepherds. The crate is strong, sturdy, and affordable. The washable pan makes cleaning easy, and you can fold the crate when you need to store or transport it.
Unfortunately, this crate doesnt come with a divider, which means youll only want to buy this one for an adult German Shepherd. If you want, you could buy a divider separately, though. The lock on this crate leaves something to be desired as well. Dogs that dont get fussy will be just fine, but restless dogs might be able to break free.
We love that this crate has a removable and washable pan for easy cleaning.; The 48 inch size ensures theres plenty of room, although we wouldnt recommend you go bigger than that.; Anything too big may allow your GSD to use the corner to relieve himself.; Its also foldable for easy storage and travel.
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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.
Is A 42 Inch Crate Big Enough For A German Shepherd
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. Similarly, you may ask, how big of a dog crate do I need for a German shepherd?
The recommended crate size is 48 inches. The right size crate will allow them to stretch out and stand at their average full height.
Also Know, how do I know what size crate to get for my dog? Take their length and add 4 inches to find the length their crate should be. Next, have them sit and measure the distance from their head to the floor. Add 4 inches to this and you’ve found the height of your dog’s crate. Width isn’t as precise, so just make sure they have enough room to turn around in.
Similarly, you may ask, what is the best crate for a German shepherd?
The top rated German Shepherd crates are:
- AmazonBasics Folding Metal Dog Crate with Paw Protector.
- Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel.
- EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate.
- Sliverylake XXL Dog Cage Crate Kennel Heavy Duty.
- Zinger Winger DX5000 Deluxe 5000 escape artist Aluminum Crate.
What size crate should I get for a lab?
When choosing a crate for a fully grown Labrador, you’ll need to buy a 36-inch or 42-inch crate. The advertised size refers to the length of the crate. The width and height will vary slightly, depending on the make. If your adult Labrador is very large, you should choose a 42-inch crate.
Read Also: How To Fix Loose Hocks In German Shepherds
How Big Of A Crate Does A German Shepherd Need
When buying a dog crate, the consensus is that you should err on the side of caution and opt for more space and a bigger crate. German Shepherds are a large breed, and the American Kennel Club states that they weigh;between 65-90 pounds for a male and 50-70 pounds for females.
However, you have to consider that this is only a rough guide as all dogs are different, just like you and me. When you get your pup, its hard to know exactly how big hell grow. I can certainly vouch for that, as my female German Shepherd weighs a whopping 88 pounds ! However, she isnt overweight she is just very tall.
But to do good with your new companion, you must also keep your dogs age in mind when you ask, how big of a crate does a German Shepherd need?
A fully grown adult German Shepherd needs a 48-inch size crate. The full dimensions will be 48 inches long, 33-inch in height, and 30-inch wide. An 8-week old puppy needs 3/4th that length and an increase of an inch a week until 12 weeks. You can use a sliding divider to increase this length.
You can ignore this guideline if your German Shepherd is bigger and weighs more than 110 lbs , such as the mighty King Shepherd. Ultimately you want to give your dog enough room to stand and stretch.;
With that said, it might seem the safest to buy as big a crate as possible and pop your puppy in there. Although thats a great idea, unfortunately, it isnt that simple. While erring on the side of spaciousness is good, you should do it within reason.
Frisco Ultimate Dog Crate
The Frisco Heavy Duty Dog Cage is our pick for durable, heavy-duty dog crates. Some dogs just dont like going into their crate, and owners need to be sure they wont have an escape whenever they leave the house for a few minutes.
This crate is large, durable, and easy to assemble. Your German Shepherd will be comfortable inside and wont be able to find a way to break free. The crate also sits on wheels, so its relatively easy to move around the house.
Of course, there are some downsides to picking a heavy-duty dog crate. Theyre bulky, heavy, and they dont collapse, so bringing them with you is going to be a chore. Youre also going to have to spend a bit more money for this crate, but you get what you pay for in terms of durability.
We love that this crate has extreme durability, and is practically impossible to break out of.; It has a removable plastic tray for easy cleaning.; Its easy to assemble and break down, despite the fact that its thick, heavy and tough for any dog to penetrate or break out of.
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How To Determine The Correct German Shepherd Crate Size
One of the most important parts of choosing the best German Shepherd crate for your pup is to measure it properly. You want to purchase a well-ventilated, comfortable crate where your German Shepherd can stand up, turn around, and lie down.
However, this is a balancing act. You dont want your dogs crate to be too big. This is because dogs do not like to soil their own bedding, and this is why they will hold it while in a crate. They dont want to pee or poop in the place where they are sleeping.
If your crate is too big, though, your dog may be able to find a corner away from its bed to have an accident which will defeat the purpose, and encourage future accidents.
To measure your German Shepherd properly, heres what youll need to do.
- To get the proper length, measure your German Shepherd from the tip of its nose to the end of its tail, and add 2-4 inches.
- To get the proper height, sit your German Shepherd down, and measure from the head or tip of its ears to the ground.
- To get the proper width, measure your German Shepherds body width, and add 4 inches
Using these dimensions, you can choose the right size of crate for your dog. Note, too, that most larger crates come with a divider. This divider can be used to make the crate smaller for a puppy, ensuring that you do not have to purchase multiple crates as your dog grows.
More German Shepherd Crates
Looking for even more suggestions for the best German Shepherd crates in 2021? While the below options didnt quite make our list of top picks, they still may be a good option for you, depending on your needs. Take a look now!
- Available in sizes up to 48 inches
- Double-door design
- Cover keeps your pup feeling safe and secure
This iCrate Dog Crate Kit is ideal for a new puppy owner, and comes with a dog crate, bedding, water and food bowl, crate cover, and a divider, so youll have everything that you need to begin training your dog. Youll get all of these products in a single, affordable package, making it a great deal that saves you both time and money.
Pros:
- Great value for the money
- Crate and all the accessories are durable and high-quality
- Bed and crate cover are machine-washable, dryer-friendly
Cons:
- Cover may rip if put on the crate incorrectly
- Divider is hard to put in, take out
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How To Crate Train German Shepherd Puppy
Before you begin crate training you will need to find a quiet place in your home such as laundry room, bathroom or lounge. The most important factor when choosing a good crate spot is how noisy it is. A puppy will find it difficult to settle if his crate is in a noisy or busy part of the house.
Getting your puppy used to the crate and going in and out is the first step. This method is a good starting point:
This process is a soft approach. It allows your dog to accept the new crate on his own terms and he will associate it with something positive. Forcing him into the crate will only make him feel anxious about it. Leave the crate door open during the day so your puppy can go in and out as he pleases.
Overall Best Dog Crates For German Shepherds
| Our 2021 Picks: Best Dog Crates for German Shepherds |
- Divider panel included
- Easy-to-clean plastic pan
Overall Best Crate For A German Shepherd If youre looking for the best dog crate for your German Shepherd, it doesnt get much better than this single door dog crate from Frisco. Its simple, affordable, and comes with all of the features and extras that youll need to crate train your German Shepherd puppy. The included plastic pan is easy to clean, and a divider panel lets you divide the crate, and allow it to grow with your dog. It folds and has adjustable handles, making it easy to move and transport, and it has a secure, double-latch system to ensure that your German Shepherd wont accidentally escape its crate.
Pros:
- Affordable and offers great value for the price
- Available in sizes of up to 48 inches to accommodate larger German Shepherds
- Secure latching system for your dogs safety
Cons:
- Soft-sided design with strong metal structure
- Reinforced corners for a long lifespan
- Multiple ventilation screens for comfort
- Secure zipping mechanism
Pros:
- Easy to fold and transport
- Provides a dark, denlike environment for your German Shepherds comfort
Cons:
- Foldable for simple storage, transportation
- Includes leak-proof pan, carrying handle, divider
Pros:
- Made from high-grade steel wire for strength, durability
- Rounded corners keep your dog safe
- Divider panel is easy to move and remove
Cons:
Recommended Reading: When To Start Training Your German Shepherd
What Size Crate Do I Need For A German Shepherd
A: German Shepherds are a larger breed of dog, which means youre going to need a large crate often around 42 inches. The dimensions of these crates are traditionally 42L x 28W x 31H.
What size dog crate for German Shepherd? Depending on the size of your pet, you may opt for a 42 dog crate to minimize space while your German Shepherd puppy grows or simply use a dog crate divider with a 48 dog crate. 42 crate size The average 42 dog crate has the dimensions of 42 length, 28 width, and 31 height.
How do you choose a German Shepherd crate? When choosing a crate for your German Shepherd, you would want a crate that lets your dog stand straight and turn around in it. But while choosing the best size crate for German shepherd puppy, you would want to consider the dog as it grows, so you wont need to be changing or purchasing another crate.
What size crate for GSD? Some crates are up to 84 inches which is ideal for a full grown dog weighing between 90 and 110 pounds. What your GSD requires is not really a puppy crate, but a crate that would house your full grown dog since german shepherd dogs grow fast up to 42 inch dog growth.
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 for a German Shepherd. 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 adult German Shepherds 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 German Shepherds 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 from.
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.
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