Does your German Shepherd deserve a safe, cozy den that fits their powerful build perfectly? Choosing the right crate for a German Shepherd is more than just picking a size; it’s about ensuring their comfort, safety, and successful training. These intelligent, large dogs need space to stretch out, but many standard crates feel cramped or aren’t sturdy enough to handle their strength.
The frustration of buying a crate that’s too small, too flimsy, or just plain wrong for their unique needs is real. You want a space where your loyal companion feels secure, whether you are away or working on house training. Finding that balance between durability, correct dimensions, and good ventilation can feel overwhelming.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a crate ideal for a German Shepherd, focusing on size requirements, necessary features, and material choices. By the end of this post, you will know precisely which crate will transform your Shepherd’s den into their favorite retreat. Let’s dive into finding the perfect fortress for your magnificent dog!
Top Dog Crate For German Shepherd Recommendations
- 【Durable Construction】Our dog crate is made of sturdy, rust-resistant metal wire, making it durable and able to handle energetic puppies. Its durable design makes it resistant to deterioration, giving it a dependable option for extended usage.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【Leak-Proof Plastic Tray】This dog crate features a detachable, leak-proof plastic tray that runs the length of the crate, making cleanup simple in the event of an accident. For dog dishes that won't slip, look for a textured surface.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【Double Door Convenience】There are two ways to enter our dog crate: the front entrance and the side door. Numerous ways to enter and exit this dog kennel are available. When putting the crate in confined areas where a front door can be blocked or for anxious dogs who might prefer a side entry, this is really useful.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【Easy To Set Up】Any dog lover should own one of these crates. You don't want to be spending a lot of time while on vacation, therefore it's crucial that our puppy playpen is easy to put together and take down. Metal dog cage canine kennel with handle for dogs.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【After-Sale Service】Please feel free to contact our customer service if you have any questions or have any issues with the dog crate while using it. We guarantee that you will receive the finest solution and the most expert technical assistance. Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- IDEAL FOR 90-110 LB DOGS: Measures 48.5 x 30.25 x 32 inches – perfect for German Shepherds, Collies, Huskies & similar breeds. For dogs near 110 lbs, consider sizing up to our 54-inch drop-pin model so they have plenty of room to get comfortable.
- WE DON'T CUT CORNERS, WE PERFECT THEM: Precision welding, rounded corner clips & slide-bolt latches with Paw Block mitigate snags, cuts & escapes. With rigorous safety testing, iCrate provides peace of mind knowing your dog is safe while you're away.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Sturdy metal wire design with a protective black e-coat finish, the iCrate resists rust and everyday wear. Complete with leak-proof tray, rubber feet, carry handle, and tool-free assembly, it's ready for years of use.
- SUPPORTS CRATE TRAINING: A divider panel lets the crate grow with your dog, from puppy kennel to full-size crate. Large openings and low thresholds ease the crate training process and help your dog feel more at home.
- LIFE GOES BETTER WITH PETS: A family-owned business based in Indiana, MidWest Homes for Pets brings over 100 years of pet product expertise and a commitment to quality, rigorous safety testing, and excellent US-based customer service.
- SAFE & SECURE DOG CAGE: This durable dog cage features reinforced steel pipes, rounded corners, and dual latches on both front & side doors, to keep your pet secure during dog training or quiet time.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION FOR EVERYDAY USE: Made with rust-resistant wire and reinforced edges, this dog cage offers long-term durability while remaining lightweight enough to carry on the move
- DUAL-DOOR DESIGN FOR EASY ACCESS: Front and side doors with secure dual latches make it easy to load, unload, and interact with your pet while ensuring safety inside the dog kennel.
- TRAVEL-READY & COLLAPSIBLE: Whether used as dog crate furniture at home or as a pet carrier for travel, the collapsible dog crate transitions easily for indoor use, camping trips, or vet visits
- LEAKPROOF & EASY TO CLEAN: Equipped with a durable, removable ABS tray that contains messes, resists stains and odors, and makes cleaning your indoor dog kennel quick and stress-free.
- 48-inch dog crate for pets under 46 x 28.5 inches (LxH), like a Bernese, Labrador, Rottweiler, or Great Dane
- Durable metal wire construction with manual door locking mechanism for secure containment
- Sets up quickly and folds down flat for easy transport or compact storage; top handle for comfortable carrying
- 1 door and a divider for adjusting the internal space
- Removable plastic base tray for easy cleaning
- ENHANCED SECURITY: With rounded edges, smooth rounded corners and matching accessories, our dog crates prioritize safety. Thick metal mesh and double doors with 2 heavy-duty sliding bolt locks not only prevent your dog from escaping, but also provide optimal protection for your pet;
- DURABLE: Our dog crates are made of high quality materials for durability. The sturdy construction ensures that it stands up to wear and tear, making it a reliable choice for long-term use. The double door (one door on the front and one on the side) design feature also makes it easy to place and use in any space.
- EASY TO CARRY: Our dog crate is collapsible, giving you the flexibility to take it with you wherever you go. Folded for space-saving, easy storage, it's perfect for traveling, camping, or any on-the-go adventures with your furry friend.
- MAXIMUM COMFORT: The spacious interior of our dog crate ensures that your pet feels comfortable and secure. The open, breathable design promotes air circulation, creatting a comfortable environment for your pet to relax
- EASY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN: Our dog crate features a durable, leak-proof ABS composite tray that is easy to clean and maintain. It resists stains, warping, corrosion, and odors, ensuring a hygienic and comfortable environment for your pet.
- 【Indestructible & Safe】Upgraded 20-gauge steel frame and reinforced 0.5-inch-diameter steel tubes make our metal dog crate much sturdier than others. Double sturdy slide bolt laches can ensure ultimate security. All of these make our dog cage chew-proof and escape-proof. It is perfect for large, strong, and separation anxiety dogs.
- 【Durable & Reliable】Featuring a long-lasting and non-toxic hammer-tone coating that resists rust and corrosion, making the kennel perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. More importantly, because of the non-toxic finish, it is safe for the dog even if the dog bites or licks the cage frame.
- 【Easy To Feed and Clean】Wide Opening Double Doors with low thresholds are not only for easy access but also allow you to interact with and feed the dog conveniently. The removable Dog crate Tray and Leak Proof Plastic Pan will not only make your home clean but also make you clean up simply and quickly.
- 【Easy to Assemble, Store, and Transport】Most of this heavy-duty kennel has been pre-assembled, so you can easily set up the cage by one person within 10 minutes. In addition, 360-degree swivel caster wheels with brakes make it easy and safe to roll around.
- 【MONEY BACK GARNTTEE】We are committed to providing our customers with safe and comfortable products. We are guaranteed one year warranty from the date of purchase and lifetime customer service support for rest assured. If there is any problem with the dog kennel, please contact us directly for a free replacement.
- IDEAL FOR 71-90 LB DOGS: Measures 42.5 x 28.5 x 30.5 inches – perfect for Australian Shepherds, Boxers, Golden Retrievers & similar breeds. For dogs near 90 lbs, consider sizing up to our 48-inch model so they have plenty of room to get comfortable.
- WE DON'T CUT CORNERS, WE PERFECT THEM: Precision welding, rounded corner clips & slide-bolt latch with Paw Block mitigate snags, cuts & escapes. With rigorous safety testing, iCrate provides peace of mind knowing your dog is safe while you're away.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Sturdy metal wire design with a protective black e-coat finish, the iCrate resists rust and everyday wear. Complete with leak-proof tray, rubber feet, carry handle, and tool-free assembly, it's ready for years of use.
- SUPPORTS CRATE TRAINING: A divider panel lets the crate grow with your dog, from puppy kennel to full-size crate. Large openings and low thresholds ease the crate training process and help your dog feel more at home.
- LIFE GOES BETTER WITH PETS: A family-owned business based in Indiana, MidWest Homes for Pets brings over 100 years of pet product expertise and a commitment to quality, rigorous safety testing, and excellent US-based customer service.
- 36-inch dog crate for pets under 32 x 21 inches (LxH), like a Corgi, Brittany, Cocker Spaniel, or French Bulldog
- Durable metal wire construction with manual door locking mechanism for secure containment
- Sets up quickly and folds down flat for easy transport or compact storage; top handle for comfortable carrying
- 2 doors (front and side) and a divider for adjusting the internal space
- Removable plastic base tray for easy cleaning
Choosing the Best Crate for Your German Shepherd
German Shepherds (GSDs) are smart, strong, and active dogs. They need a safe and secure space. A good crate helps with training and gives your dog a den. This guide helps you find the perfect crate for your big friend.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a GSD crate, look for specific features. These make the crate safe and useful for your dog.
- **Size Matters Most:** A GSD needs space to stand up fully, turn around easily, and lie down comfortably. Never buy a crate that forces your dog to crouch. Measure your dog from nose to tail base and from paw pad to the top of the head. Add 4 to 6 inches to these numbers for the ideal crate length and height.
- **Security and Locking:** GSDs are escape artists! Look for heavy-duty latches. Double-bolt locks are much better than simple slide bolts. A strong crate keeps your dog safe inside.
- **Portability (Optional):** If you travel, a folding crate is helpful. Make sure the folding mechanism is strong and locks securely when set up.
- **Divider Panels:** Many crates come with a panel. This lets you adjust the crate size as your puppy grows. This saves money over time.
2. Important Materials: What Makes a Good Crate?
The material of the crate affects its strength and how long it lasts.
Heavy-Duty Metal Construction
Metal crates are usually the best choice for German Shepherds. They resist chewing and scratching.
- **Steel or Powder-Coated Metal:** Choose crates made from thick gauge steel. Powder coating prevents rust and makes cleaning easier. Avoid thin, flimsy wire cages.
- **Plastic Crates (Travel Only):** Hard-sided plastic crates are good for air travel. However, a determined GSD can often chew through or break weak plastic sides. They are not ideal for long-term home confinement.
Floor Surfaces
The floor of the crate should be easy to clean. Many crates have removable plastic trays underneath the wire floor. This tray catches accidents. Make sure this tray is durable so your dog cannot break it with their paws.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of the crate determines how long it lasts against your GSD’s strength.
Quality Boosters:
Thicker metal tubing means a stronger crate. Welds should be smooth and solid. A crate with solid floor panels (not just wire) often feels sturdier. Better quality crates often feature smooth edges so your dog does not get scratched.
Quality Reducers:
Cheap, thin metal bends easily. If latches feel loose or sticky, the quality is low. Watch out for crates with many plastic parts that connect the metal frame; these break first. If the paint chips easily, rust will start quickly.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use the crate every day.
Home Use (Training and Den Time)
For daily use in your home, prioritize durability and comfort. You want a crate that looks decent in your living room. It should be easy to move slightly for vacuuming underneath. A crate with two doors (one on the side, one on the front) improves placement options in your home.
Travel Use
If you often take road trips, look for crates that fold flat quickly. Tie-down points are crucial if you secure the crate in the back of a truck or SUV. For air travel, only use airline-approved, hard-sided carriers that meet IATA standards.
A well-chosen crate becomes your German Shepherd’s safe haven. Spend a little extra for strength; it pays off in peace of mind.
10 FAQs About Dog Crates for German Shepherds
Q: What is the ideal size crate for an adult German Shepherd?
A: Most adult GSDs need a crate that is 42 inches long, 28 inches wide, and 30 to 32 inches tall. Always check your dog’s measurements first.
Q: Should I buy a crate that is too big?
A: No. A crate that is too big can actually hinder house training. Your dog might use one corner as a bathroom area if there is too much extra space.
Q: Are plastic crates safe for a strong GSD?
A: Hard-sided plastic crates are safe for short trips, but they are usually not strong enough for a determined adult GSD in a home setting. Metal crates offer better security.
Q: What does “powder-coated” mean on a metal crate?
A: Powder coating is a tough, protective finish applied to the metal. It helps prevent the crate from rusting and makes the surface smoother and easier to wipe clean.
Q: How do I stop my GSD from chewing the crate bars?
A: Ensure the crate is large enough. If chewing continues, you must use bitter apple spray or check with your vet about anxiety. Never leave chews that can be swallowed inside the crate.
Q: Are folding crates strong enough for a GSD?
A: Yes, many high-quality folding crates use heavy-gauge metal and strong latches. Look specifically for “heavy-duty” or “professional” models designed for large, powerful breeds.
Q: What is the purpose of a divider panel?
A: The divider panel lets you adjust the space inside a large crate. You use a small space when the dog is a puppy, then move the panel as the dog grows.
Q: How do I make the crate comfortable?
A: Place a thick, durable mat or a small, sturdy dog bed inside. Avoid soft pillows that can be easily shredded and ingested by your dog.
Q: Should the crate have one door or two?
A: Two doors offer much more flexibility for placing the crate in different spots in your house. One front door and one side door is very convenient.
Q: How often should I clean the crate?
A: You should spot clean daily. A deep clean, including washing the tray and bedding, should happen at least once a week to keep your dog healthy.