Top 5 Dog Cages for German Shepherds: A Buyer’s Guide

Is your majestic German Shepherd ready for their own safe space? Providing a crate for your Shepherd is a huge step. These intelligent, strong dogs need something more than just any old box. Many owners struggle to find a crate that is big enough, durable enough, and secure enough for their powerful companion. You worry about them escaping or damaging a flimsy enclosure.

Choosing the correct dog cage for a German Shepherd is vital for their training and comfort. A small crate causes stress, but a weak one becomes a hazard. Finding the perfect balance of size, strength, and security can feel overwhelming. This guide cuts through the confusion.

We will show you exactly what features matter most when buying a kennel for your Shepherd. You will learn about ideal dimensions, essential materials, and the best designs to keep your dog safe and happy. Keep reading to discover the ultimate crate solution for your loyal friend.

Top Dog Cage For German Shepherd Recommendations

No. 1
MidWest Homes for Pets 48-Inch iCrate for Extra-Large Breeds, 90-110 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
  • 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.
No. 2
FDW Extra Large Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,48 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Large Dogs,Black
  • 【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
No. 3
BOLDBONE 48 inch Heavy Duty Indestructible and Escape-Proof Dog Crate Cage Kennel for Large Dogs, High Anxiety Dog Crate with Removable Wire Trays and Wheels, Extra Large XL XXL, Black
  • 【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.
No. 4
48 Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate Steel Escape Proof, Indoor Double Door High Anxiety Cage, Removable Tray, Kennel with Wheels,XL XXL
  • 【Upgrading Durable Dog Crate】This 48 Inch dog cage is built to be Durable, crafted with corrosion-resistant. Its multi-layered, non-toxic protective coating ensures durability and promotes your dog’s health.Best for highly anxious dogs.
  • 【Removable for Easy Cleaning】The extra-large dog crate includes a plastic tray and floor grate. The slide-out tray effectively catches debris and waste,helping you clean out the kennel quickly and easily.
  • 【Double Door Lock】Designed with a front door for easy pet entry and exit, plus a top door that allows you to feed or interact with your dog. Both doors are equipped with secure locks to prevent escape and keeping your dog safely inside their pet house.
  • 【Easy to Install and Move】360-degree lockable rolling casters allow you to easily move the indestructible dog kennel around your home, or keep your dog cage securely in place. You just screw the parts together and It only takes less than 30 minutes complete.
  • 【Great Size & Customer Service】Interior dimensions:44.9"Lx28.1"Wx25.6"H. We’re here to help—if you encounter any issues during installation or use, please reach out to us. Our customer service is online 24 hours all day.Please check the size before purchasing.
No. 5
BestPet | Dog Crate | 48" | Black | Foldable Metal Kennel with Double Doors, Secure Slide-Bolt Latches, Leakproof Tray | Portable Dog Cage for Large Breeds | for Travel, Indoor & Outdoor Use
  • 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.
No. 6
54" Heavy Duty Dog Crate Large Dog cage Strong Metal Dog Kennels and Crates for Large Dogs Top Open with 2 Doors 4 Lockable Wheels 2 Removable Trays
  • Indestructible Structure: This XL large dog crate is made of heavy duty sturdy steel pipe, strong & durable. Fish scale welding technology reinforced the extra large dog crate. And no burrs and sharp edges of welding parts, safe for dogs. 4 locks for 2 doors, escape proof.
  • Sturdy Metal: 42 Inches heavy duty dog crate uses a high-strength metal construction, much stronger than fine wire cages. This is a very sturdy large dog crate, even for strong and powerful dogs.Maximum load capacity up to 400 lbs
  • Flexible Movement and Locking:This extra large dog cage comes with 4 high-quality 360° smart locking rolling wheels.You can easily move this metal dog crate to any place. The lock function prevents it from scrolling randomly.
  • Upgraded Door Lock Design:The front door of the steel dog kennel is convenient for pets to get in and out, the top door can be opened to allow you to interact with and feed your pets. Two Upgraded door locks on the front and top securely lock the door in place.
  • 1-YEAR Warranty: We have a professional customer service department. If there are any quality problems, please contact us via Amazon, this metal large dog crate promises to provide you with zero-profit product accessories within the 1-YEAR warranty period.
No. 7
Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate for Large Dogs, Double Door with Removable Tray, Divider Panel, Easy to Assemble, 48" x 30" x 32.5", Black
  • 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 ;2 doors (front and side) and a divider for adjusting the internal space
  • Sets up quickly and folds down flat for easy transport or compact storage; top handle for comfortable carrying ; Removable plastic base tray for easy cleaning; Fasten the bar buckle in front of the tray after installing the tray
  • Metal hook at the bottom of the crate to prevent plastic tray from moving out. Please lock the hook well after installing the tray everytime in daily use
  • Product Dimensions: 48 x 30 x 32.5 inches (LxWxH)
No. 8
Sweetcrispy Large Dog Crate with Divider Panel, 36 Inch Double Door Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel, 36S
  • 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.

Choosing the Right Dog Cage for Your German Shepherd: A Buyer’s Guide

German Shepherds (GSDs) are smart, strong, and energetic dogs. They need a safe and comfortable space. A good dog cage helps with training and provides a secure den for your GSD. This guide helps you pick the best one.

1. Key Features to Look For

When buying a crate, size is the most important thing. Your GSD must stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Size Matters Most
  • Height: The top of the cage should be a few inches taller than your standing dog.
  • Length and Width: Ensure enough room for stretching out fully. Many cages come with dividers for growing puppies.
Security and Access
  • Door Security: GSDs are escape artists. Look for heavy-duty latches or double-locking mechanisms. Simple slide bolts often fail.
  • Door Style: Front and side doors offer better placement options in your home.
Portability and Cleaning
  • Tray System: A removable bottom tray makes cleaning accidents easy. Slide-out trays are better than fixed floors.
  • Portability: If you travel, look for folding designs. Wire crates fold flatter than plastic ones.

2. Important Materials

The material affects durability, weight, and price.

Heavy-Duty Metals

Most strong crates use metal. Choose powder-coated steel or stainless steel. Powder-coated steel resists rust and chewing better than basic painted metal. Stainless steel is the top choice for strength and longevity, but it costs more.

Durable Plastics

Plastic crates (often called travel crates) are lighter. They work well for car travel or temporary containment. Ensure the plastic is thick and high-impact. Thin plastic cracks easily under a strong dog’s weight.

Wire Gauge

For wire crates, the thickness of the wire matters. Thicker wire (lower gauge number) means a stronger cage. Avoid thin wires that a determined GSD can bend.

3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Quality directly relates to how long the cage lasts against your GSD’s strength.

Quality Boosters
  • Construction Welds: Strong, tight welds on wire crates prevent weak spots.
  • Frame Thickness: A heavy-gauge frame resists bending when the dog leans against the sides.
  • Non-Toxic Finish: Quality cages use safe, non-toxic coatings that do not chip off easily.
Quality Reducers
  • Plastic Connectors: Many folding crates use plastic hinges or connectors. These break first.
  • Thin Panels: If the metal panels flex easily when you push them, your dog will push them out.
  • Sharp Edges: Poorly finished edges can injure your dog. Always check for smooth seams.

4. User Experience and Use Cases

How you plan to use the cage changes what you should buy.

Home Training and Den Use

For house training, comfort is key. Use a crate that fits snugly but allows room for a bed. A quiet corner location helps the dog feel secure. Many owners prefer heavy-duty wire crates for home use because they offer good ventilation and visibility.

Travel and Transport

If you frequently drive long distances, a secure, impact-resistant plastic crate is often safer. These crates secure better in the vehicle. Ensure the crate is airline-approved if you ever plan to fly with your Shepherd.

Chewing Issues

If your GSD chews everything, you need a “Indestructible” or “Heavy Duty” crate. These often feature reinforced corners and thicker bars. They sometimes lack floor trays, so you must add a thick rubber mat inside.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About German Shepherd Cages

Q: What is the best size crate for an adult German Shepherd?

A: Most adult GSDs need a crate that is 42 inches long, 30 inches wide, and 32 inches high. Always measure your dog before purchasing.

Q: Should I buy a plastic or a wire crate?

A: Wire crates offer better ventilation and are easier to clean. Plastic crates offer better insulation and security for travel.

Q: Can I leave my German Shepherd in a crate all day?

A: No. Crates are tools for training and short-term safety. A GSD should not be crated for more than 4 to 6 hours during the day once fully potty trained.

Q: How do I stop my GSD from chewing the bars?

A: Ensure the crate is large enough. If chewing continues, use a crate made of very thick metal or consider covering the bars with chew-proof metal guards.

Q: Are crates necessary if my GSD is already house-trained?

A: Yes, they are still useful. Crates provide a safe den for resting and help prevent destructive behavior when you cannot supervise them.

Q: What if my crate arrives with sharp edges?

A: A quality crate should not have sharp edges. If you find them, use a metal file or sandpaper to smooth the rough spots immediately to protect your dog.

Q: Do I need a divider if I buy a big crate?

A: If you buy a crate for an adult GSD but plan to use it for a puppy, a divider is essential. It keeps the puppy from using one end as a bathroom.

Q: How do I make the crate more comfortable?

A: Use washable bedding like a durable crate mat. Avoid soft pillows initially, as puppies often chew and ingest them.

Q: How do I know if the door latch is secure enough?

A: Test the latch by shaking it firmly. If it rattles loose or opens with a strong push, it is not secure enough for a smart GSD.

Q: Should the crate be placed in a busy or quiet area?

A: Place the crate in a moderately busy area at first so your dog does not feel isolated. Once settled, move it to a quieter spot where they can relax without constant stimulation.