German Shepherds typically stand 24-26 inches tall and weigh between 65-90 pounds. As a large dog breed, the recommended crate size for German Shepherds is 48 inches. A crate of this size will allow them to stretch out and stand at their average full height. If you have a German Shepherd puppy, I'd recommend a crate with a cover and divider so the size of the crate suits the puppy. In other words, you should consider a 48-inch expandable dog crate for your German Shepherd puppy. These crates come with a divider panel that you can adjust to expand the space inside as your German Shepherd puppy grows. This way, you won't have to buy another dog crate when your dog reaches its typical adult size. Metal dog crates are popular for their strength and ventilation and are best for German Shepherds and dogs who tend to chew.
Although metal crates are the sturdiest you can buy, they are not the most aesthetically pleasing. However, a 48-inch fabric cover can beautify these crates while offering your dog extra privacy. Depending on your budget, you might want to choose a wood dog crate for your German Shepherd. These crates are typically attractive and act as pieces of furniture, like end tables, to blend with your home decor. In addition, a wood dog crate offers sturdy support for your dog. Keep in mind that wood dog crates are typically more expensive than other crates. Plus, they require assembly and are heavier than other types of dog crates.
Here are the top three dog crates for your German Shepherd dog.
1. Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Dog Crate
This 48-inch dog crate is recommended for dogs under 46 x 28.5 inches (L x H), like a German Shepherd. The crate features two doors (front and side) and comes with a divider for adjusting the internal space. It also comes with a removable plastic base tray for easy cleaning. The crate is easy to set up and is foldable for easy transport or compact storage. Dog owners who have purchased this crate like its build quality, ease of assembly, and size. They say the crate is well-built, stable, and easy to fold down. Some pet owners say it's the perfect size to contain their German Shepherd and Bernese Mountain Dog dogs. Overall, over ten thousand dog owners are satisfied with the value for money and design of this dog metal dog crate.
- Brand: Amazon Basics
- Crate Dimensions: 48"L x 30"W x 32.5"H
- Gap Size: 15 Millimeters
- Material: Metal
2. A Single-Door Metal Dog Crate
Unlike the above crate, which has two doors, this dog crate has a single door. It features floor-protecting feet and also comes with a divider and a leak-proof pan. The washable plastic pan is for easy cleanup in the event of an accident while the divider panel allows you to adjust the length of the living area as your German Shepherd puppy grows. This keeps the living space small enough to reduce the chance of your puppy eliminating in one end and sleeping in the other, as dogs have an instinct not to poop or pee where they eat and live. The crate measures 48L x 30W x 33H inches and is suitable for large dog breeds with an adult weight of 90-110 pounds, like the German Shepherd. Overall, this crate is durable & strong, portable, and easy to assemble with no tools required.
- Brand: MidWest Homes for Pets
- Crate: Dimensions: 48"L x 30"W x 33"H
- Material: Metal
3. A Wood Dog Crate With a Divider
This furniture-style dog crate is an excellent choice, provided you need something that'll look nice and won't take up too much space in your home. It offers a safe haven for your dog and doubles as a side table or nightstand, while easily blending in with your home decor and elevating your space. The crate comes with a dense heavyweight cushion, which is soft and comfortable, and a divider panel. However, unlike the above two metal crates, this wooden dog crate measures 46.7L x 30.7W x 32.2H inches. Adult German Shepherds typically have a body length of 36 to 42.5 inches. It is advisable to measure your dog's body length prior to purchasing this crate, which measures 46.7 in length.
- Brand: unipaws
- Crate Dimensions: 46.7"L x 30.7"W x 32.2"H
- Material: Engineered wood, metal
Conclusion
In addition to providing dogs with a safe space to retreat to, crates are an important part of potty training for dogs That’s why crate-training and choosing a crate that is comfortable for your dog is such an important decision. Pick a dog crate that is the right size, sturdy, and features proper ventilation on the sides for your German Shepherd dog to breathe properly. If your German Shepherd doesn’t chew on fabric items, add a cozy, machine-washable dog crate bed or mat within the crate to make it inviting.
