Selecting the best crate for your German Shepherd can be challenging. You’ll want a crate that’s robust, secure, and comfy for your dog. There are numerous options to consider, tailored for training, travel, or safety.
I’ve felt the frustration of crates that don’t hold up to the strength and size of a German Shepherd or those that lack comfort or convenience. Issues like durability, size, and ease of cleaning are common problems for owners like us.
With years of experience raising German Shepherds and a keen eye for quality, I’ve scrutinized countless crates to bring you the best options and find the ideal crate for your German Shepherd.
Let’s begin!
What are the Best Dog Crates for German Shepherds?
Here’s a quick snapshot of the products I recommend in this article.
While I review three popular metal wire crates for your German Shepherd, my favorite – and the best by far, in my opinion – is the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate.
The MidWest iCrate starter kit, on the other hand, is a close second.
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Top | MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single Door iCrate Dog Crate, Includes Leak-Proof Pan, Floor Protecting Feet, Divider Panel & New Patented Features | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
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Top | New World Newly Enhanced Single Door New World Dog Crate, Includes Leak-Proof Pan, Floor Protecting Feet, & New Patented Features, 48 Inch | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
Top | MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Dog Crate Starter Kit | 48-Inch Dog Crate Kit Ideal for XL Dog Breesd (weighing 90 - 110 Pounds) || Includes Dog Crate, Pet Bed, 2 Dog Bowls & Dog Crate Cover | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
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Top | Amazon Basics 2-Door Collapsible,Lightweight Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate Dog Kennel, X-Large, 42 x 31 x 31 Inches, Tan | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
 | Petmate Ultra Vari Dog Kennel for Extra Large Dogs (Durable, Heavy Duty Dog Travel Crate, Made with Recycled Materials, 48 in. Long) 90 to 125 lbs, Made in USA | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
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Top | New Age Pet ecoFLEX Pet Crate/End Table, Medium, Russet | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
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Top | MidWest Homes for Pets Foldable Metal Dog Exercise Pen / Pet Playpen, 48'H x 24'W | PrimeEligible | Buy Now |
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Best Metal Wire Crates
MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate
- Newly enhanced with added security features to keep your pet safe | Slide-bolt door latches now feature patented Paw Block and locking tips to create a safer, more secure home for your pet
- iCrate single door dog crate measures 48L x 30W x 33H inches and is suitable for extra-large dog breeds with an adult weight of 90-110 pounds. If your dog’s weight or measurements are on the higher side for this crate, we recommend buying the next crate size up
- Dog crate includes a divider panel, durable & leak-proof plastic pan, protective rubber feet, carrying handle, and customer support team based in Indiana, Heavy-duty slide-bolt latch securely locks dog crate door in place, keeping your dog safely inside their pet home
- Easy to assemble & portable | Dog crate sets up in seconds with no tools required and conveniently folds flat for travel
- Durable & strong, quality construction creates a secure place for your dog to fulfill their natural instinct to den. Proper ventilation, large door openings with low thresholds, and rounded corner clips make iCrate a safer crate experience for your dog
- PLEASE NOTE: MidWest Homes for Pets manufactures the iCrate & Life Stages dog crates. Assembly and safety instructions are included; please read all safety instructions prior to
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This folding metal dog crate is ideal for GSDs because of its roominess and convenience for the owner.
At 48 inches, there’s plenty of space for your adult German Shepherd, and you can place the divider at any point in the crate. You can start small and let the crate grow with your pup.
Size
This crate is 33 inches tall and 30 inches wide. The variable length is 48 inches, making it ideal for large breeds. It is essential to consider your German Shepherd’s maximum potential height when purchasing a crate.
Remember, this height is calculated not by estimating growth per year but by simply checking the maximum size of your dog’s breed.
Even if your GSD is a female, getting a crate fit for a male GSD is safer. With most male German Shepherds growing up to 26 inches, the 33-inch height of this crate is more than enough.
I will reiterate that it is best to be super safe where crate size is concerned, and I’d always advise going big. The quoted sizes of dog breeds are only rough guidelines, and every dog is different.
For example, my female German Shepherd is 27 inches tall, making her taller than the average male.
Material
Your German Shepherd will not feel alone or isolated thanks to the metal wire material on all sides. At the same time, the wire will keep him confined, which is important while he learns to accept the crate as his personal space.
Other Features
Let’s look at what additional features make this crate one of the finest choices for your German Shepherd now that we’ve covered the size and material. Compared to traditional wire crates, the product’s innovative rounded side clips make it safer for your dog.
On the subject of safety, the crate’s secure locking mechanism is worth a mention as well because it gives you the peace of mind that your German Shepherd’s not going to wiggle free and cause havoc in the room, especially in your absence.
In your presence, it is a different story. The two doors, alongside a design that maximizes visibility, allow your German Shepherd to feel socially integrated while being in his crate.
The negative of this could be that grounding your dog in his crate might not be as effective when he loves his crate so much. But if you are a good dog owner, you’ll already know this is not a good way to discipline your German Shepherd.
Convenience
Lastly, we must consider the convenience of the product for you. Yes, your German Shepherd will be comfortable and feel at home, especially during crate training, but will this crate be awkward to assemble or maintain?
If you go by the aggregate of over 100,000 reviews and ratings on Amazon, the answer is a resounding no.
The crate’s ease of folding is rated at 4.6 stars out of 5, and its ease of assembly is rated the highest at 4.7 out of 5 stars.
If you were previously skeptical of the fact that the crate, despite being big, is perfect for your new German Shepherd puppy, the 4.5-star rating for the “for potty training” feature might change your mind.
I must say, I love the icrate, and as the name suggests, it’s an all-inclusive product, so you’ve nothing else to buy, which leads me onto the next product…
New World Pet Products Dog Crate
- Newly enhanced with added security features to keep your pet safe | Slide-bolt door latches now feature patented Paw Block and locking tips to create a safer, more secure home for your pet
- New World single door dog crate measures 48Lx30Wx33H inches and is suitable for extra-large dog breeds with an adult weight of 90-110 pounds. If your dog’s weight or measurements are on the higher side for this crate, we recommend the next crate size up
- Durable & leak-proof plastic pan, Easy to assemble & portable | Dog crate sets up in seconds with no tools required and conveniently folds flat for travel
- Durable & strong, quality construction creates a secure place for your dog to fulfill their natural instinct to den. Proper ventilation, large door openings with low thresholds, and rounded corner clips make New World a safer crate experience for your dog
- PLEASE NOTE: MidWest Homes for Pets manufactures the New World dog crates. Assembly and safety instructions are included; please read all safety instructions prior to use
- 100 YEARS FAMILY-OWNED & OPERATED | Customer and product support provided from our headquarters in India
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Although GSDs aren’t the messiest dogs, all pups make a mess. This mess-proof dog crate is great for large breeds and allows you to start working with them right away without having to put in a lot of effort upfront.
A typical dog Mom might have to commit to a difficult crate-cleaning routine when crating her puppy, but this crate allows you to skip that hard work.
But before we get into the product’s unique features, let’s review its size and material.
Size
This crate is the same height as the previous option and gives a good 6 to 7 inches of free space for your fully grown GSD to stand.
As mentioned above, you must consider a fully grown male’s height for your puppy’s breed to ensure the crate will be a consistent fixture in the ever-changing world of your doggo.
The length of this crate is also 48 inches, which might seem too big for a puppy. So, to make your pup feel safe and secure and speed up his toilet training, you need a divider for this crate.
Most people project their own psychology onto their pets and assume more room is always preferable. This is okay for height; a dog can be comfortable in a room with a ceiling nine times his height.
However, regarding the width and breadth of the crate area, your German Shepherd puppy needs a smaller space to feel comfortable.
If you get this crate, make sure to purchase a crate divider separately to help your puppy feel snug in it. If your GSD is already an adult, this isn’t something to worry about.
Material
This crate is the same metal wireframe variety as the previous one, albeit with better accolades. Over 38,000 reviews have set its average sturdiness rating at 4.5 out of 5 stars.
But that isn’t the best part; the greatest thing about this crate is its dimensions are ideal for crate mats.
In other words, the greatest material feature of this product isn’t the material it is made of but the material it can accommodate.
You can find my recommendations for the best crate pads for German Shepherds here, something significant for a breed predisposed to hip and elbow dysplasia and osteoarthritis.
Other Features
You can quickly clean the plastic pan that comes with this dog crate by pulling it out and wiping it down. Since you’re with your canine best friend for the long haul, getting a convenient product is the best thing you can do for both of you.
The easy cleanup feature might become useless when your dog is disciplined enough to keep his crate clean, but there are other lifelong areas of convenience to consider.
Convenience
Accessories can be added to the crate to decorate and add practical fun to the space. There’s also a helpful user guide you can download from the product’s Amazon page, which is ideal for those purchasing their first dog crate.
This crate has also achieved the highest possible rating for the “for potty training” aspect, which currently stands at 5 out of 5 stars.
The overall rating for this crate, from an average of over 38,000 reviews, is 4.7 out of 5 stars, and it has received props for its ease of assembly (4.7 stars), portability (4.3 stars), and ease of folding (4.7 stars).
MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Starter Kit
- ULTIMATE CONVENIENCE & PERFECT STARTER KIT FOR THE NEW DOG OWNER. Everything you need arrives in 1 carton so you can enjoy more time with your new family member!
- XL DOG BREED KIT INCLUDES EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO GET STARTED: 1 fully equipped 2-door iCrate, 1 dog bed, 1 crate cover & 2 (2 qt.) pet bowls that affix to the dog crate | Dog crate measures 48L x 30W x 33H inches when assembled
- STARTER KIT ideal for XL dog breeds with adult weight up to 91 - 110 pounds
- DESIGNED TO FIT & USER FRIENDLY: Fleece pet bed & polyester crate cover fit your dog crate & are machine washable/dryer friendly; 2 inches Snapy Fit inches dog bowls are designed to attach to the dog crate keeping food & water in one convenient location
- MIDWEST HOMES FOR PETS QUALITY GUARANTEE: Entire dog crate kit includes 1-Year Manufacturers Warranty on all products
- FULLY EQUIPPED DOG CRATE: iCrate double door included w/ this kit has a divider panel, 4 roller feet (to protect floors), carrying handle & leak-proof removable dog t
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While many manufacturers claim that their crates are more than just crates and that they are the dog’s “home,” this product genuinely fits the bill. The product is a bundle in which the crate is only one part.
This crate kit comes with a crate cover, a dog bed to go inside the crate, and food and water bowls that can be easily attached to the inside of the crate.
Material
The crate itself is a collapsible metal wire crate. As you may have read initially, metal is the perfect material for German Shepherds, so most options on this list will feature metal.
Also included is a fleece bed, which helps your German Shepherd stay warm and snug inside the crate. Adding to the coziness is a polyester crate cover that you can use at night to minimize distractions and help your German Shepherd go to bed.
Size
The dimensions of this crate aren’t particularly unique. With a 48-inch length and a 30-inch width, the crate matches the sizes of the previous two options, including the same height of 33 inches.
Like my other two recommendations, the crate hits the maximum mark for most large-breed dog crates and gives even taller German Shepherds a good 6-7 inches of headspace.
Other Features
While not unusual, the crate does include a double-door option. I find it worth mentioning here because not every product in this article checks this mark. It is also collapsable, again, like many other metal wire dog crates.
Ultimately, the unique feature of this product is its convenient bundling, which also makes for great value for money.
Because the manufacturer’s compassionate message is particularly endearing, the product’s sales page includes guidelines regarding humane and patient introduction to crates; you can also include the brand as a feature.
When a manufacturer warns customers not to force their dogs into the crate or use it as a punishment tool, I cannot help but give it a few points.
The product has also received praise for durability, with a 4.8-star rating on a 5-star scale. This is well-differentiated from the accolades of other products here.
However, it doesn’t rank too high for me because I know you may wish to replace it during your German Shepherd’s life, no matter how durable a crate is.
Convenience
Finally, no product review is complete without looking at its convenience for you. It doesn’t appear like there’s anything unusual in terms of convenience, though the crate has been reviewed thoroughly enough for a higher feedback resolution.
For example, we know that a few other options on this list are easy to clean, thanks to their respective removable trays. However, this product has a 4.6-star rating in the “easy to clean” category.
Other feedback that speaks to the crate’s convenience includes ease of assembly, which stands at 4.8 stars, and foldability, which is given an average rating of 4.7 stars.
The ultimate convenience of this crate comes from the fact that you do not have to make individual purchases to piece together your German Shepherd’s new home.
Getting a bed and cover separately may mean having different wait periods, paying for each item’s shipping in some cases, and forking out more cash overall.
Most dogs adore the den-like feel of having a cover draped over their special place, and I always placed a dark blanket over my German Shepherd pup’s crate. But if you’d prefer to buy your accessories separately, this crate kit isn’t for you.
Best Soft Portable Crate
Amazon Basics Portable Soft Crate
- Soft-sided dog crate for keeping a furry 4-legged friend safe and comfortable when traveling
- Includes an XL dog crate made of tan polyester fabric and a lightweight yet sturdy PVC frame
- Sets up in seconds with no tools needed; folds flat for easy portability and compact storage
- 2 doors (top and front) for easy loading and unloading
- Secure zipper closures, plus fastening straps to keep unzipped rolled-up doors in place and out of the way
- Mesh windows and front door provide ventilation on all 4 sides
- Suitable for large breed dogs (90 pounds) like Great Dane and Bernese; for use with crate-trained dogs only
- Product dimensions: 42 x 31 x 31 inches (LxW
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If your German Shepherd is disciplined enough to sit silently in a covered crate, you can use this portable soft crate for short-distance travel.
There’s not a lot about this crate that makes it a must-buy aside from its portability, but then again, a travel crate has to be easy to move, or it isn’t a good travel crate.
Let’s have a look at its material and size before getting into its characteristic features.
Material
This is a polyester product, which is great for moving German Shepherd puppies. In theory, you can use this crate even as a dog home as long as your puppy is young, but that would make it more difficult for your dog to accept a metal crate in the future.
The product, ultimately, is at the mercy of your dog and his training, but its opacity does present an advantage; there are little to no stimuli that would otherwise make your German Shepherd hyper-aware or too excited.
The harder parts of this crate are made of PVC, which is sturdier than polyester but is difficult to clean.
Size
Size isn’t a concern with this soft crate, as it stands at 31 inches with a 31-inch width and a 42-inch length. This roominess, however, doesn’t offset the material disadvantage, especially since the metal crates (the best ones) also come in similarly spacious options.
Other Features
While the product will last far less than its metal counterparts, it does present its own advantages. I just don’t know whether they’re worth the shortened lifespan.
The key features include the breathability of polyester, lack of stimuli, and a soft pet bed. It is pretty easy to carry and comes with a handy strap.
Convenience
With this product, the convenience is dictated entirely by how well-trained your dog is.
If your German Shepherd is an obligate scratcher, the crate’s panels will be its canvas, but if your canine is patient and mellow, this is an advantageous option for traveling and moving.
All in all, it’s a good crate to have as a backup, as it doesn’t take too much room. And if your German Shepherd’s trained to be relatively inert when there’s a cover on his metal crate, you might be able to get him into this crate and have him stay put.
Best Travel Crate
Petmate Vari Kennel
- DOG AIR TRAVEL KENNEL: This large dog travel kennel features tie-down strap holes, wire vents for ventilation & a raised interior to keep pets safe and comfortable. For medium dogs 90-125 lbs. Measures: 48
- AIRLINE-ADAPTABLE: This dog crate meets most airline cargo specifications. Made with heavy duty recycled plastic material and features an easy-open front latch to quickly access pets
- KENNELS & HOUSES: Crate & kennel training is vital for dog safety & comfort. We provide traditional travel carriers, wire training & exercise kennels, play pens, barn-style dog houses & more
- Petmate: For over 50 years, we at Petmate are passionate about our dogs, cats & furry friends in general. Starting with the very first dog kennel, weve produced plenty of eco-friendly products that pets will love
- JUST FOR PETS: Petmate makes a variety of pet products for dogs, cats, chickens & other small furry friends! Check out our brands such as Aspen Pet, Arm & Hammer, Booda, Chuckit!, Jackson Galaxy & mo
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Unless you charter a private jet every time you fly, you know that traveling requires compromising on space. Every form of transportation is significantly less “roomy” than the place you live in.
This travel crate defies that principle and presents a spacious way of housing your German Shepherd on the road (or in the air). It’s the equivalent of an RV for humans.
Material
This travel crate integrates metal and plastic, which is excellent for travel but inconvenient for home use.
Metal crates aren’t perfect for traveling because a 360-degree wireframe means your German Shepherd will get hyperstimulated looking at the changing environment in all directions.
Opaque plastic on the side reduces this stimulation, while the metal wire window keeps your dog from feeling claustrophobic.
Size
As mentioned above, one of the flagship features of this product is that it allows you to transport your German Shepherd without really “caging” him. The crate dimensions are 48 inches x 32 inches x 35 inches, comparable and even more roomy than many metal wire options.
Cleaning such a crate can be quite a chore, but its spaciousness means you’ll have enough room to reach in and clean the corners.
Other Features
Comparing this travel crate to wire ones wouldn’t be fair. Instead, you should compare it to other portable options. The plastic sides are better than polyester panels often used in travel crates.
Another thing to consider is the airflow because dogs can start feeling confined and anxious if they don’t get fresh air. The metal wire window alongside the ventilation holes at the rear allows air to circulate properly.
Convenience
This travel crate makes it convenient to transport your GSD because there’s little distraction and chaos. The only concern you might have is regarding the crate’s durability, given that metal makes up a minor part of the overall product.
However, the crate’s 4.5 rating for sturdiness is evidence that the product is durable enough despite not being as strong as a wire crate.
Best Furniture Style Crate
New Age Pet ecoFLEX Dog Crate
- Elegant way to house your pet while disguising the pet crate as a fashionable piece of furniture that can double as an end table
- Made of ECOFLEX, a non-toxic recycled plastic-wood polymer composite material that wont warp, crack or split
- Spindles made of stainless steel tubing and a stainless steel latch; double latches on large and x-large crates
- Easy, no-tools assembly
- For dogs up to 50 lbs
- Exterior Dimension: 29.5 in. L x 21.1 in. W x 25.2 in. H || Interior Dimension: 26.8 in. L x 17.7 in. W x 20.9 in. H
- Door Dimension: 13.8 in. W x 19 in. H
- Removable table top for easy cleaning. Requires no maintenance
- Crates can provide a safe secure hangout space for your dog. Best used for dogs that are crate trained and that do not have anxiety.
- ECOFLEX does not absorb moisture, therefore stains and odors are a thing of the p
If you’re not too touchy regarding the optics and want your dog crate to double as an end table, this is the perfect crate for your German Shepherd. It features steel bars and a wooden roof, panels, and flooring.
Material
The product features wood, which can be a concerning aspect because of the rivalry between dogs and wooden posts. However, this is plastic wood and is not as scratchable.
According to the manufacturer, the wood is also non-toxic and recycled. The stainless steel bars are obviously strong enough to make sure the crate boundaries are actual boundaries and not suggestions (like they are with travel crates).
Size
The crate is 29.1 inches high (on the inside), but the thick wood at the top makes the overall height of the crate reach 30.9 inches. With a 24.6 inches wide 39.8 inches long interior room, the crate is spacious enough for most female German Shepherds and smaller males.
Other Features
The only prominent feature is the style and aesthetic appeal of this crate. While most crates look like jailhouses, this item looks like a luxurious house arrest destination.
It comes in white, black, grey, espresso, and russet colors, of which I only knew three! Espresso is a fancy way of saying brownish-grey and russet, reddish-brown. This variety allows you to pick the crate that complements your furniture.
Convenience
Despite looking like a complicated piece of carpentry, the crate is effortless to assemble and requires no tools. It also doubles as furniture, making it more convenient for you to make room for the crate, especially if you live in a studio apartment.
All in all, I love the look of this crate and the great choice of colors, which will fit any decor. However, I feel it’s a bit on the small side for a larger dog, so it may be best to wait until your pooch is fully grown.
Best Metal Playpen
MidWest Homes for Pets Foldable Metal Playpen
- Each panel measures 24W x 48H, Exercise Pen / Pet Playpen folds flat for convenient storage
- Exercise Pen provides 16 square feet enclosed area (1.5 meters) for your dog & other pets
- Includes 4 ground anchors for outdoor use and 4 thumb-snaps for easy assembly; Easliy attaches to your crate for a playspace area
- Easy set-up & no tools required for assembly. Exercise Pen includes 1 year manufacturers warranty; Not Recommended for Puppies or Dogs That Jump
- Celebrating over 100 years as a small, family-owned business that supports over 150 employees in the U
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This product brings together the spaciousness of the previous option with the sturdiness of the first item in this post, making the perfect environment for your German Shepherd to play within a relatively confined space.
This playpen is best for those with a bigger residence who want to “dog-proof” an area without covering every piece of wood with an anti-chew spray-like product.
You can also use it with my favorite recommended crate (hint: the first on this list) to make a bigger puppy/dog zone, as both can be easily connected.
I adore this idea as it gives your GSD loads more room whilst keeping him in a safe environment and allows a positive experience for you both.
Material
Metal wire panels and an open top and bottom characterize this playpen. In other words, based on where you put the playpen together, the flooring might be grass or carpet, depending on whether you choose to put it inside or outside.
Size
Each panel is 24 inches wide, and there are eight panels. You can decide the width of the playpen by assembling the panels closely or even attaching extra panels.
You can even attach this to your crate and create a home+terrace setup for your German Shepherd, as mentioned above.
Convenience
The best part about this playpen is that it relieves you of the responsibility of dog-sitting.
This also is the thing you must be most concerned about because leaving your GSD in his playpen for extended periods might make it easier for you to slack off on your responsibility to socialize with your best friend, take him out on walks, and play with him.
What Kind of Crate is Best for a German Shepherd?
When you bring home your new German Shepherd puppy, he can be introduced to his crate right away. While an 8-week-old GSD may like any crate, you must pick a crate in which he will feel comfortable as an adult.
The best kind of crate for a German Shepherd is a metal wire type. They are the most practical and robust to withstand damage.
They also increase visibility and airflow, preventing your dog from feeling isolated. Wire crates are very simple to clean, and most fold flat.
Nonetheless, not all metal crates are built alike, as you will discover from the article. Each crate must be assessed on its portability, ease of assembly, durability, and, of course, GSD-friendliness.
Here’s a quick overview of the types of crates for your dog:
| Feature | Soft Crate | Travel Crate | Metal Crate |
| Usability | Good for indoor use and short trips | Good for car travel and short trips | Good for indoor use and long-term use |
| Convenience | Easy to set up and store | Lightweight and portable | Easy to clean and store |
| Durability | Not as durable as metal crates | May not be as durable as metal crates | Very durable |
| Cost | Generally less expensive than metal crates | Generally less expensive than metal crates | Generally more expensive than soft and travel crates |
| Size Options | Limited size options | Limited size options | Wide variety of size options |
| Security | May not be as secure as metal crates | May not be as secure as metal crates | Very secure |
| Ventilation | Good ventilation, but may not be as breathable as metal crates | Good ventilation, but may not be as breathable as metal crates | Excellent ventilation |
What to Look For in a Dog Crate
You would assume that deciding on the best crate for your German Shepherd is a simple task.
However, when selecting a metal wire crate for your dog, you should keep the following things in mind:
- Size. Your German Shepherd’s crate should be large enough for him to stand, turn around, and lie down on his side with his paws outstretched comfortably. Ensure you get a size 48′′ to accommodate your GSD’s growth.
- Durability. You need a robust metal crate for a large strong dog such as the German Shepherd. Make sure the edges are nicely rounded for safety, especially if you have young children.
- Style. Choose a double-door style that provides versatility to put it anywhere in your home. If you know where to put it, go with a single door. It will also help you save some money.
- Accessories. While your GSD puppy is growing, I recommend using an adjustable divider. You don’t want your puppy to be encouraged to use half of his crate as a toilet if it’s too big! He won’t want to pee or poop in his area if you separate the crate while he’s small. Your crate should also include a removable, easy-to-clean plastic tray.
- Easy Assembly and Portable. Choose a crate that can be assembled quickly and easily without using tools. It should be able to fold flat and include a carrying handle so that you can transport it. Some dog crates include roller feet to prevent scratching on your floor.
Tips for Crate Training Your German Shepherd
When you’re purchasing a new crate for your German Shepherd, remember that it takes time for your dog to accept the new type of space and adapt to it.
If the dog has already had a crate, then it shouldn’t be a long process. Otherwise, it’s recommended to start early.
I started training my German Shepherd early to adapt between open spaces and a crate, and she felt all the more comfortable whenever she entered a crate.
Here are a few tips that I’d like to give to new crate buyers:
- Introduce the crate gradually and positively
- Use treats and positive reinforcement
- Never use the crate as a form of punishment
- Make the crate comfortable and inviting.
- Start with short periods of time in the crate and gradually increase
- Use a consistent routine for crate time
- Ignore whining or barking in the crate (this happens only in the initial stage).
- Provide plenty of exercises and mental stimulation outside of the crate
- Consider using a crate cover or calming aids if your dog is anxious
- Seek professional help if your dog is not responding well to crate training.
FAQs
What Size Crate Should I Get for a German Shepherd?
German Shepherds need a 48-inch-size crate, so their size is well-accommodated in it. The crate should also be 33 inches tall at a minimum so the dog can safely stand without hitting his head and 30 inches wide to move around, lie on his side, and easily stretch out his paws.
Read More: German Shepherd Crate Size
What Size Crate is Best for a GSD Puppy?
The best crate size for a German Shepherd puppy is 48 inches. A wire crate with a divider is ideal as you can start your puppy off in a small enough space by setting the divider a few inches away from its full length and continue to adjust as the dog grows. This also speeds up potty training.
How Long Can I Leave My German Shepherd In A Crate?
German Shepherds can be left in a crate for up to a maximum of 4 hours, depending on their age. An 8 to 10-week-old pup can be left for 2 hours, a 12-week-old pup for 3 hours, and a 16-week-old puppy for 4 hours.
However, it’s important not to leave your dog in a crate for extended periods of time and to provide plenty of exercises and mental stimulation outside of the crate.
Should I Cover My German Shepherd’s Crate?
Covering a German Shepherd’s crate can create a den-like atmosphere and provide a sense of security for your dog. However, ensure the cover is breathable and doesn’t block airflow.
Additionally, some dogs may feel more comfortable without a cover, and this is the case if the current environment is cozy enough.
As a regular user of a crate for my dog, I’d say that a cover works great if you’re carrying your dog and if the dog could get scared outdoors. Otherwise, a cover is recommended only when the space is too bright.
Some dogs get phobic if it’s covered. So, you may have to try it for some time with and without a cover. Determine the comfort and use it accordingly.
What If My German Shepherd Doesn’t Like The Crate?
If your German Shepherd doesn’t like the crate, it’s important to introduce it gradually and positively, using treats and positive reinforcement. You can also try making the crate more comfortable and inviting by adding bedding and toys.
If your dog continues to resist the crate, consider seeking professional help from a dog trainer or behaviorist who can help you develop a customized training plan. It’s important to never force your dog into the crate or use it as a form of punishment.
Sometimes, dogs might hesitate to use a crate if they’re aged and have never been exposed to one in the past. Likewise, if you’ve adopted a rescued and rehabilitated German Shepherd, you need to check for the history of abuse. This lets you plan better.
Which Crate Should I Pick?
German Shepherds are very social, affectionate, and strong enough to rip apart delicate boundaries that cordon them from their favorite pastime: playing with you.
A metal wireframe checks two boxes with the same pen, allowing your dog to feel like a part of the surrounding social scene because of high visibility.
So, if we concentrate on metal wire crates, here’s what I’d pick…
The best dog crate for German Shepherds is the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate, as it’s strong, durable, and ideal for large dogs.
This “all-inclusive” crate has everything you need, including a handy divider panel and a portable plastic tray, meaning you’ve nothing else to buy.
