What size Dog bed for German Shepherd

German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the world. They are known for their intelligence, athleticism, and loyalty. Because of these qualities, German Shepherds are often chosen as police and military dogs.

German Shepherds are also large dogs, and as such, they need a large dog bed to sleep in. A good rule of thumb is to buy a bed that is at least twice the size of your German Shepherd. This will give your dog plenty of room to stretch out and sleep comfortably.

With so many options on the market, selecting the best crate for a German Shepherd can be difficult.

German Shepherd puppy crates, travel crates, and even heavy-duty escape-proof kennels for the Houdini dogs are available.

I was perplexed when I bought a crate for my German Shepherd because I didn't know what size to get or which crate is best for a large breed dog.

But, thankfully, you have this guide to assist you in purchasing the best crate for your German Shepherd while avoiding the stress and hassle of finding the perfect match.

Top Picks for German Shepherd Crates

Best German Shepherd Puppy Crate

The Lucky Dog Sliding Double Door Wire Dog Crate is an excellent choice for puppies because it is lightweight and portable, allowing you to take your puppy wherever you go!

Best Puppy Crate

The Best Crate for Chewing German Shepherds

MidWest's Ultima Pro Double Door Dog Crate is not only large enough to accommodate the largest of dogs, but it is also made of tough wire steel for chewers.

Best Chew-Resistant Crate

Best Cage for Escaped German Shepherds

Frisco's Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Metal Dog Cage, made of reinforced steel, will keep even the most daring dogs from escaping.

Best Escape-Proof Cage

1. Lucky Dog Sliding Double Door Wire Dog Crate 48″ – Best German Shepherd Puppy Crate

Benefits

The Lucky Dog Sliding Double Door Wire Dog Crate 48′′ is a simple solution to your problems.

The lightweight crate has simple sliding barn-style doors to keep your German Shepherd safe and comfortable. While this is the lightest model in the group, it is ideal for German Shepherd puppies who do not try to escape or calmer, full-grown adults.

The crate's large sliding doors make cleaning a breeze, and the plastic catch pan is ideal for catching any accidents or dirt.

All you need is soft bedding to complete this light-duty crate for your German Shepherd puppy in order to create a calming environment for short naps or overnight stays.

The secure latching doors on the double-door crate are engineered for strength and stability to keep your dog safe and secure while you're away. Furthermore, the strong, rust-resistant wireframe is coated for durability and has easy snap-on corner stabilizers to keep it from collapsing.

When. As a result, it is light and portable.

Get Easy, Puppy Comfort

2. iCrate MidWest Double Door Fold

Benefits

The iCrate MidWest Double Door Fold.

This model has a lot of useful everyday features that you'll love!

The MidWest brand demonstrates that quality is affordable, from the double doors to the removable plastic tray.

This model is lightweight and resistant to light scratching and pushing due to the 12-gauge steel and tighter wiring, but dogs that bite or scratch at their kennels will require a thicker wire. If that describes your dog, consider the higher-rated gauge wire cages on this list.

There are two side bolt latches to keep the doors closed and two door openings for a variety of indoor or travel configurations to suit your needs. This makes the model more adaptable for traveling and moving around the house on your own for a variety of setups.

The iCrate is made of electro-coated wire mesh, which is the lightest and cheapest of the MidWest wire crates. This allows the crate to be easily moved within a home or when traveling with your dog.

This crate folds flat and has ABS plastic carrying handles to make movement easier on your hands and body.

If you want a low-cost dog crate for your German Shepherd, this model is an excellent value.

Check out the Double Door Delight Crate.

3. MidWest LifeStages 48′′ Double Door Crate

Benefits

This all-steel kennel is designed by MidWest and features a double door and a secure locking system. The crate has four slide-bolt latches to keep your pet inside safely and securely.

The LifeStages kennel folds flat for portability and is ready for travel or storage. If you want to create a larger play area for your German Shepherd puppy, the MidWest Exercise Pen (sold separately) fits snugly against the cage and includes snaps that help secure the crate to the pen.

The MidWest LifeStages crate has a divider panel that allows you to adjust the length of the living area as your puppy grows into their adult-sized home.

Furthermore, the crate's rounded corners prevent you from inadvertently injuring yourself by bumping into the edges.

Learn More: Portable, Secure Kennel

4. Frisco Heavy Duty Folding Table

Benefits

If you have a dog who easily opens its crate latch, the single-door model with double latches may be ideal.

This heavy-duty crate is appropriate for larger German Shepherd puppies and dogs with a lot of energy and strength.

If you want to be mobile with your dog, this is one of the lighter kennels for a 12-gauge wire crate. Keep in mind that the weight of a crate of this size is 39 pounds.5 pounds, so there's still some weight to carry.

A single-door crate is ideal for training or keeping your dog safe while you are away.

This crate is constructed with rounded corners for your dog's safety and is made of rust-proof thicker and heavier wiring for added security.

The single large door simplifies training and includes a secure safety lock with dual latches.

A divider panel included allows you to create a smaller space for your growing German Shepherd puppy, and the large size provides plenty of space for your dog to lay down comfortably.

See the Double Latches

5. Frisco 48′′ Double Door Dog Crate

Benefits

This crate has two large doors, one in front and one on the side, that are easy to open and make entry and exit easier for larger German Shepherds.

The 48-inch crate's front door measures 26 by 22 inches.5-inches, and the side door is 26-inches.75 by 20.75-inches, providing plenty of space for large dogs to walk through.

They also close and lock securely with dual latches to keep your dog from escaping.

The crate's bottom is designed with rubber stoppers to prevent slipping and scratching, making the crate slip-resistant and protecting your floors from unexpected scratches.

If you have a high-energy German Shepherd puppy or large dog, the bottom tray has a pan-locking latch to help keep the tray in place.

This crate has transport handles that are easily repositionable and useful for transporting the crate to a new location or for travel.

The ability to fold down for storage or travel, as well as the double door configuration, allows you to position the crate as you see fit for your room size. For easy cleaning, this model includes a metal wire divider and a removable floor pan.

Find the Easy-Carry Robust Crate

6. MidWest Ultima Pro Double Door Dog Crate 48″ – The Best Crate for Chewing German Shepherds

Benefits

Do you have a German Shepherd who chews on their kennel?

Then you'll need a heavy-duty wire to keep them from escaping and causing damage to your home or themselves.

The MidWest Ultima is a dog crate made of strong, thick wire and long-lasting metal.

This is ideal for strong German Shepherds who try to escape by pushing against their crates.

The professional-gauge steel is made to withstand chewers and powerful dogs, such as your German Shepherd!

This model folds down without the use of tools or disassembly and includes a handle for easy transport. For tougher, energetic dogs and strong puppies, the Ultima Pro dog crate has more professional-grade gauges.

This ultra-durable crate design provides a safe haven for your pet while you're away and can withstand repeated use.

For High-Energy Chewers, consider The Wire Crate.

7. Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Metal Dog Cage Large - Best Kennel for Escaped German Shepherds

Benefits

Is your GSD a master lockpicker and escape artist?

The Frisco Heavy Duty Steel dog cage is what you need!

Frisco's frame is made of solid steel and can withstand large breed rowdiness. Powder coating protects the steel from scuffs, chips, dents, rusting, and wear and tear.

It is also reinforced with welding at all stress points, allowing the cage to retain its integrity and appearance over time.

The frame is rust and corrosion resistant, and the wheels are easy to move and have locks. This cage will keep your dog safe and contained, even if he or she is prone to escaping from smaller wire-framed crates.

If you are concerned about your dog's ability to open locks and latches, this model is for you.

If your German Shepherd is prone to escaping and causing damage to your home or themselves, the best crate for them is a steel cage model designed specifically for dogs who escape regular kennels.

Escape-Proof Kennel for Maximum Security

Comparison Chart for the Best German Shepherd Dog Crates

If necessary, use the slider at the bottom of the chart to move left/right to see the entire table.

*Measurements are taken from the outside dimensions.

What is the best size German Shepherd crate?

The ideal size for a German Shepherd crate is 48". It is preferable to have extra space rather than a crate that is too small. Purchase a larger crate so that your dog can remain comfortably housed as they grow. A 48" German Shepherd crate gives your dog plenty of room to turn around, stretch, lie down, and stand. If you keep your dog crated for more than a few hours, the recommended crate size for a German Shepherd is 48".

A fully grown German Shepherd requires enough room to stand, sit, lie down, and stretch. Not to mention the ability to turn around with ease.

In addition, most 48-inch crates include a wire divider to keep your German Shepherd puppy in a smaller area while they potty train. This means they won't be tempted to soil one side of their crates and sleep on the clean side.

Crate Size: Too Small Versus Too Large

A too-small kennel isn’t suitable. It's inconvenient, if not cruel, for German Shepherd Dogs.

A small crate does not allow your dog to stretch when left for extended periods of time. This can cause joint and muscle stiffness. 

Because GSDs are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, it is critical to allow them to stretch. Excessive use of a small area can cause tightness and stiffness, as well as increase anxiety and cause long-term joint damage.

However, an area that is too large simply takes up extra space. Contrary to popular belief, a puppy or smaller dog will fit into a larger crate..

If an overly large area bothers you or your German Shepherd, you can easily block it off with this metal divider. All of the wire kennels on this page are recommended because they come with free dividers (except for the heavy-duty cage model).

Is it cruel to confine your German Shepherd?

For some owners who are unfamiliar with the concept of crate training, confinement in such a small space may appear cruel or even punishing.

However, free-roaming dogs in the wild seek shelter in small, covered spaces to protect themselves from predators and environmental hazards. Using the natural history of wild dogs, you can easily train German Shepherds to view their kennel or crate as a safe cave or their own private home away from home.

And, know what’s even better?

You can assist them in maintaining this comfortable environment because most crates can accompany you and your German Shepherd wherever you go.

In fact, even if you don't intend to use a crate, all German Shepherds should be trained to enjoy being in one. Learning to enjoy being alone in their crates can help teach your GSD that it's okay to be alone and that they're safe in their "private den.".”

Your dog, in particular, will be less likely to develop anxiety if you must leave your dog for travel in the future. Most dogs will need to go to a groomer or veterinarian's office at some point in their lives, and teaching them to love their crate helps them avoid the stress of having to use one outside of their home.

Your German Shepherd puppy can even be trained to sleep quietly in their crate at night, providing them with a warm place to sleep that prevents you from tripping over them if they were left outside and got under your feet.

Do you want to know how to easily crate train your dog with toys?

Then learn about Kong Toys for German Shepherds' tips and tricks!

German Shepherd Crates Buyer’s Guide

There are various kinds of crates available. While deciding on the right size and style for your German Shepherd can be difficult, these pointers will help.

For escape artists, the most common crate types are wire crates, plastic crates, and metal reinforced crates. Wire crates are ideal for traveling with dogs or for camping. You'll find that taking your German Shepherd on outings is more convenient with a wire crate that folds flat for easy storage and travel. Keep in mind that wire crates are larger and require more space to be set up.

Your Dog’s Home Crate

A plastic or wire crate is unquestionably the best choice for a GermanShepherd's home crate. I prefer wire crates because they fold flat for storage and are less expensive to buy. They also tend to last longer and withstand the rigors of life with a German Shepherd.

Plastic crates may feel more secure to your dog than wire crates because the walls are more solid. However, plastic crates large enough for a German Shepherd are more expensive, do not last as long, and are better suited to short periods of travel rather than more frequent home use. Plastic and metal crates can both be reinforced with strategically placed zip ties to prevent rambunctious puppies and adult dogs from pushing the frame apart.

A sturdy (not collapsible) reinforced (preferably welded) metal crate is ideal for an escape artist. When used for short periods of time to prevent your German Shepherd from escaping and injuring themselves while unsupervised, these cages are humane. They are larger and take up more space than wire or plastic crates, but they will last a lifetime.

The Right Size

It can be difficult to choose the right size crate for a German Shepherd. Some owners are tempted to buy a large-sized crate to give their dog plenty of space, but they forget to include a wire divider to make the sleeping space smaller.

If you choose an overly large crate, your puppy may use a portion of it as a toilet, resulting in unsanitary conditions that you will have to deal with. Choose a wire divider that can be adjusted and moved as your German Shepherd grows into a larger crate.

If you use a plastic crate, put a cardboard box in the back half to make the space smaller so your puppy can't reach the back and soil it. You won't have to buy multiple crates as your German Shepherd puppy grows with these crate tricks, which will save you money and time in the long run.

When your dog is fully potty trained, a larger crate will be more useful because they will have more room to stretch out and enjoy their private bedroom.

Crate Location

I recommend placing the crate in an area of your home where both you and your German Shepherd can easily access it at any time. The crate should be sufficiently out of the way so that it is not constantly tripped over, or you should not have to move it as this disturbs your dog's private space.

When I get a new puppy, I usually put a crate right beside my bed. This arrangement teaches puppies to sleep more quietly in their crates because you are right beside them and they do not feel as isolated.

You'll also be able to hear your puppy if he or she needs to go potty during the night. I placed another crate in a corner of my living room where I spend the majority of my time working or relaxing during the day.

Using two different locations for a crate is not only convenient, but it also allows your German Shepherd to find a spot away from family and noise if they need some alone time.

Cleaning Your German Shepherd’s Crate

To maintain sanitary living quarters, your dog's crate must be cleaned on a regular basis. When they soil the area or become ill in their crate, you must immediately clean it.

To clean your dog's crate safely, follow the steps below.

Step 1: Remove all of their toys, beds, blankets, and other items from their crate.

First, you must empty the crate of all of their belongings. Set the items aside and wipe down their toys, cleaning them with pet-safe disinfectant on a regular basis if they have any urine or feces on them. Set aside the toys and proceed to the next step: your dog's bedding.

While cleaning their toys, inspect them for signs of wear and tear and replace them if necessary. You can find some great German Shepherd toys to replace old, worn-out ones.

Step 2: Wash their soft bedding materials.

You'll then wash your dog's bedding and soft blankets. This is especially critical if they have an accident in the crate, and it should be done as soon as possible to avoid cross-contamination to other items in the crate or house.

In general, you can wash their bedding in your washing machine according to the manufacturer's instructions. Simply add 1/2 cup baking soda to your wash load to remove really tough odors. 

Before reintroducing the bedding into the clean crate, ensure that it is completely dry.

Step 3: The crate should be dried outside or in a well-ventilated area.

Washing a German Shepherd's large crate can be quite messy, so I recommend doing it outside with your garden hose. If you are unable to go outside, choose a room with easy-to-clean tile floors, such as your kitchen, bathroom, or mud and laundry room. The room must be properly ventilated in order for the cage to dry quickly.

Wipe down the parts with clean cloth towels or paper towels to help the crate dry faster. Keep your German Shepherd away from the crate while you clean it by keeping them in a separate room.

Step 4: Finding the right cleaning solution.

The most important thing is that your dog should not be exposed to any chemicals while you clean their crate. This is critical because some cleaning solutions are toxic and can make your dog sick if they come into contact with them.

Allow them no contact with the crate until it is completely dry. 

Never use ammonia to clean their crate because ammonia smells like urine to dogs. If you clean the crate with ammonia, you may unintentionally encourage them to urinate in it.

Here are a couple of good do-it-yourself cleaning solutions you can make at home to save money. Once combined, use them immediately and discard any that aren't used for cleaning.

To make your own homemade crate cleaner, combine the following ingredients in a spray bottle.:

• Mix one part dish detergent with ten parts warm water.
• To one gallon of warm water, add half a cup of white vinegar.
• To a gallon of cool water, add half a cup of bleach.

When mixing your own chemicals at home, always use caution. When cleaning your dog's crate, make sure you rinse (and then rinse again) to remove any chemical residues and that the cage is completely dry before reintroducing your German Shepherd's toys and bedding.

Tips for Crate Training Your Dog

Your dog's crate should be their safe haven. Your GSD requires a soft place to rest, plenty of space to relax, and a comfortable temperature.

Follow these helpful hints to ensure your dog enjoys his time in the crate.

Yes!

• Place the crate in an area away from traffic. A quiet corner in the living room is preferable.
• Make certain that the area has adequate ventilation but no cold drafts. Use a cover if needed.
• When your dog is in the crate, use treats and praise. Tell him he's doing a great thing by being present!
• Allow your dog to eat in his crate while being supervised. This fosters a positive relationship with the kennel.
• When your dog is in the kennel, give him or her a special toy to chew on or play with. Make sure the toy is safe, and monitor his playtime.

Always remove your dog's collar before crate training; the collar can become entangled between the bars or wire and cause significant damage!

To avoid any unexpected accidents, use a PetSafe Breakaway Collar!

The breakaway collar prevents your dog from hanging himself by automatically releasing him. Dogs, especially puppies, are more agile in their crates than you might think, and they get themselves into trouble with their collars when you least expect it.

No!

• Strike, kick, or hit the crate. This creates a fear of the crate, with or without your dog inside.
• Keep your dog in its kennel for longer than necessary. Long periods of confinement in a kennel can cause anxiety.
• Allow the kennel to sit in the sun. If you leave your house in the sun for too long, it can get hot enough to cause overheating problems!
• Give your dog a new treat or toy before you leave. Your dog may have difficulty eating the treat or may tear the toy and eat it.
• When in the kennel, yell at your dog or use the area as a punishment. A kennel is a safe haven, not a danger zone.

Considerations to Make Before Purchasing a Dog Crate

German Shepherds make excellent den animals (source). They prefer and desire a secure location to hide or even relax. A crate provides your pet with both safety and relaxation.

They guard against unforeseeable events such as the destruction of your property. Worse, your dog may suffer harm as a result of being left alone all day.

Considerations when purchasing a dog crate:

• Escape artists require a solid steel model.
• While a heavy gauge wire kennel can suffice for the average dog (remember, the lower the number on the wire gauge, the greater the strength),.)
• They are an excellent tool for housebreaking and traveling.

Looking for a simple step-by-step guide to teaching your German Shepherd to adore their new den?

Then use this helpful guide to crate train your German Shepherd to save yourself the time and stress of keeping your dog in a kennel.

Given the variety of uses for crates, it is best to decide how you will use your crate before purchasing.

Questions to Consider Before Buying a Dog Crate

A kennel must meet both your expectations and the needs of your dog.

Answering these questions before purchasing ensures the best possible outcome.:

• Will you need the crate to be portable enough to take on vacations or hotel stays?
• Is your German Shepherd able to get out of traditional wire kennels?
• Will you require a crate with two doors to accommodate multiple entrances?
• What size will you and your dog be most at ease with?

Don't go for the cheapest kennel on the market. Cheap will not always meet your requirements.

Consider price, but more importantly, consider your dog's needs.

What to Know Before Purchasing the Best Crate for Your German Shepherd!

Dog crates are widely available and provide an open "den" area that many German Shepherds enjoy using as a safe haven. Crates can also help puppies learn to be left alone or encourage house training - but they should never be used as a punishment.

Because a crate will become your dog's very own private bedroom, don't skimp on quality when it comes to your dog's safety and comfort.

My top three choices for German Shepherd crates are as follows::

1. Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Metal Dog Cage - Best Kennel for Escaped German Shepherds
2. MidWest Ultima Pro Double Door Dog Crate – The Best Crate for Chewing German Shepherds
3. Lucky Dog Sliding Double Door Wire Dog Crate – Best German Shepherd Puppy Crate

Determine the crate strength required for your German Shepherd's temperament and energy level. Above all, teach your German Shepherd to dislike their crate..

But to love it! 💗

Crates offer your dog a strong, secure, and escape-proof enclosure as well as their own private den. Purchase the best crate you can afford while keeping your dog's personality in mind.

Remember that the best crate for a German Shepherd is one that both you and your dog are happy and comfortable using, with safety as the top priority.

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