German shepherds are active working breeds and grow quickly, so it’s a bit tough to find the right size crate.
So if you want to determine what size crate for German shepherds you have to research their ages, size ranges, and nature deeply, this is time-consuming.
By reading the guide, you can do your homework quickly, as we have discussed the German shepherd and their required crate size briefly.
What Size Crate For German Shepherd?
A German Shepherd typically requires a 42-inch long crate. This size ensures the dog has sufficient space to stand, turn around, and lie down without discomfort while preventing the establishment of separate sleeping and bathroom areas within the crate.
Crate Chart For German Shepherd:
| Age | Height | Weight | Recommended Crate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 5 Month | Up to 15″ | Up to 44 lbs | MidWest Homes Single Door & Double Door Dog Crates |
| 6 months | 15 – 17” | 44 – 49 lbs | New World Pet Products Folding Metal Single Door & Double Door Dog Crates |
| 8 months | 18 – 20” | 53 – 57 lbs | EliteField 3-Door Folding Indoor & Outdoor Soft Dog Crate |
| 10 months | 19 – 21” | 57 – 62 lbs | Ovation Space-Saving Overhead “Garage” Style Door Folding Dog Crate |
| 1 year | 20 – 22” | 60 – 64 lbs | Carlson Pet Products Secure and Foldable Single Door Metal Dog Crate |
| 1.5 years | 21 – 22” | 60 – 66 lbs | Ultima Pro Extra-Strong Double Door Folding Metal Dog Crate w/ Divider Panel |
| 2 years | 21 – 22” | 60 – 66 lbs | Otaid Heavy Duty Indestructible Dog Crate Cage Kennel with Wheels |
| 3 years | 22 – 24” | 66 – 70 lbs | MidWest Homes for Pets XXL Giant Dog Crate |
Different Types of Crates Suitable for German Shepherds
Here are some of the most common types of crates and their pros and cons:
Wire Crates:
These are the most popular types of crates for dogs. They are made of metal wires that form a cage-like structure.
They usually have one or two doors that can be locked with latches. They also have a removable plastic tray at the bottom that can be cleaned easily.
Wire crates are good for German shepherds because they provide good ventilation, visibility, and security. They are also easy to fold and store when not in use.
Dogs can scratch and move around wire crates and they can rust if exposed to moisture or chewed on.
Plastic Crates:
These are also known as airline crates because they are approved for air travel by most airlines. They are made of hard plastic that forms a box-like structure.
They usually have one door that can be locked with bolts or clips. They also have ventilation holes on the sides and back.
Plastic crates are good for German shepherds because they provide more privacy, warmth, and protection than wire crates.
They are also more durable and resistant to chewing than wire crates. When not ventilated properly, plastic crates can trap heat and odors.
Soft-Sided Crates:
These are also known as fabric crates because they are made of cloth or nylon that forms a tent-like structure.
They usually have one or more doors that can be zipped or velcroed shut. They also have mesh windows on the sides and top.
Soft-sided crates are good for German shepherds because they are lightweight, portable, and cozy. They are also easy to set up and fold down when not in use.
A soft-sided crate can be easily torn or damaged by a dog’s claws or teeth. It may also be difficult to clean an accident inside one.
Heavy-Duty Crates:
These are also known as indestructible crates because they are made of metal or plastic that forms a very strong and solid structure.
They usually have one or more doors that can be locked with heavy-duty locks or bolts.
They also have a thick and durable bottom that can withstand your dog’s weight and movements.
Heavy-duty crates are good for German shepherds because they provide the highest level of security, durability, and strength.
They are also easy to clean and maintain. If not properly introduced, heavy-duty crates can be intimidating and uncomfortable for your dog.
Furniture Style Crates:
These are also known as decorative crates because they are made of wood or metal that forms a stylish and elegant structure.
They usually have one or more doors that can be locked with latches or magnets. They also have a comfortable and removable cushion or mattress inside.
Furniture style crates are suitable for German shepherds because they provide a cozy and attractive place for your dog to sleep and relax.
They can also blend in with your home decor and furniture. If not well made, furniture crates can be hard to move, clean, and ventilate.
They can also be damaged by your dog’s claws or teeth.
How to Measure the Perfect Crate Size for a German Shepherd?
To measure the perfect crate size for a German shepherd, you need to follow these steps:
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Measure your dog’s length:
To do this, you need to use a measuring tape or a ruler. You need to measure your dog from the tip of his nose to the base of his tail.
This is the minimum length of the crate that you need to buy.
Measure your dog’s height:
To do this, you need to use a measuring tape or a ruler. You need to measure your dog from the top of his head to the floor when he is standing upright.
This is the minimum height of the crate that you need to buy.
Measure your dog’s width:
To do this, you need to use a measuring tape or a ruler. You need to measure your dog from the widest part of his chest or shoulders.
This is the minimum width of the crate that you need to buy.
Add some extra space:
To do this, you need to add 2 to 4 inches to each measurement that you took. This will give your dog some extra space to move around and stretch in the crate.
For example, if your German shepherd is 30 inches long, 26 inches high, and 20 inches wide, then you need to add 4 inches to each measurement and get a crate that is 34 inches long, 30 inches high, and 24 inches wide.
Importance of Proper Measurement
Here are some of the benefits of proper measurement:
It ensures comfort:
If you get a crate that is too small for your dog, he will feel cramped and claustrophobic in it.
He will not be able to stand up, turn around, or lie down comfortably. He will also be more prone to injuries and health problems due to a lack of space and ventilation.
On the other hand, if you get a crate that is too big for your dog, he will feel insecure and anxious in it. He will not be able to feel cozy and protected in it.
He will also be more likely to use one corner as a bathroom and the other as a bedroom, which will make the crate dirty and smelly.
It ensures safety:
If you get a crate that is too small for your dog, he will try to escape from it by chewing, scratching, or breaking it.
He will also be more exposed to hazards such as sharp edges, wires, or latches that can hurt him.
On the other hand, if you get a crate that is too big for your dog, he will have more room to move around and cause trouble in it.
He will also be more vulnerable to predators or thieves who can break into the crate and harm him.
It ensures training:
If you get a crate that is too small for your dog, he will hate it and resist going into it. He will also associate it with punishment and negativity.
On the other hand, if you get a crate that is too big for your dog, he will not see it as his den or sanctuary.
He will also lose his natural instinct to keep his sleeping area clean and dry.
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Factors Influencing Crate Size Selection for a German Shepherd
In addition to the size crate for a German shepherd, there are several other factors to consider. These are:
Dog’s Size and Age:
Your dog’s size and age are the main factors that determine what size crate is for a German shepherd.
You need to get a crate that fits your dog’s current size and allows him to grow comfortably.
You also need to consider your dog’s breed and genetics, as some German shepherds are larger or smaller than others.
Crate Purpose:
The purpose of the crate also influences your crate size selection. Depending on your answer, you will need a different size or type of crate.
For example, if you want to use the crate for house training, it should be just big enough for your dog to lie down and turn around, but not too big so he can soil one corner and sleep in another.
When you let him out, he will learn to hold his bladder and bowels. You must use a crate approved by the airline or car company you use.
During the trip, your dog needs a comfortable and secure crate.
Portability and Storage:
If you are choosing a crate size, consider how portable and easy it is to store. Do you need a crate that can be moved around or folded when not in use?
If you need a crate that stays in place and takes up little space, you may need a different size or type.
You might want a soft-sided or wire crate that is easily folded and carried if you need a portable crate.
You might choose a furniture-style crate or a heavy-duty crate if you need a stationary container.
Durability and Strength:
Crates are also influenced by the durability and strength of their construction.
If you have a dog that chews, scratches or escapes from his crate, you might need a different size or type of crate.
A heavy-duty or plastic crate can withstand your dog’s teeth and claws, for example, if you have a destructive dog.
A wire or soft-sided crate can provide more ventilation and visibility if you have a gentle dog.
Ventilation and Visibility:
Another factor influencing crate size selection is how well ventilated and visible the crate is.
Does your dog like to see what goes on around him and breathe fresh air? If so, you might need a different type or size of crate based on your answer.
A wire or soft-sided crate that allows your dog more ventilation and visibility might be a good choice if you have a curious dog.
A plastic or furniture style crate can provide more privacy and warmth for a shy dog, however.
Safety and Security:
Your choice of crate size is also influenced by its safety and security.
Do you have a dog that escapes or breaks out of his crate? Or does your dog remain calm and relaxed in his crate?
In case your dog is an escape artist, you might want to buy a heavy-duty or plastic crate that locks securely and prevents him from escaping.
You might want to get a wire or soft-sided crate if you have a trusting dog that can open easily.
Comfort and Bedding:
Consider how comfortable and cozy the crate is. Do you have a dog that likes to sleep on a soft, fluffy bed? Or is your dog one who prefers a hard, flat surface?
You might need a different size or type of crate depending on your answer.
You might want to buy a furniture or soft-sided crate with a removable cushion or mattress if your dog likes to snuggle.
For tough dogs, you might want to get a wire or plastic crate that has a hard and durable bottom that can handle their weight.
Price and Warranty:
If your budget is tight, a wire or soft-sided crate is usually cheaper than other types.
On the other hand, if you have enough money, you might want to get a heavy-duty or furniture style crate that is usually more expensive than other types of crates.
You should also check the warranty and the return policy of the crate that you are buying to see if it covers any defects or damages that might occur.
Access and Exit Points:
Crate size selection is also influenced by how many doors and openings it has. Does your dog prefer to enter and exit his crate from different directions?
Does your dog prefer to enter and exit the crate from one direction only? The size or type of crate you need depends on your answer.
A wire or plastic crate with one or more doors that can be opened from different sides might be suitable for a flexible dog.
You may want to get a soft-sided or furniture style crate for a rigid dog if it has only one door.
Legal and Airline Requirements:
Whether the crate meets airline and legal requirements when traveling with your dog also influences the size of your crate.
Are you planning to travel with your dog by car, train, bus, or plane? Or will you stay at home with your dog?
A plastic or heavy-duty crate must be approved by the airline if you plan to travel with your dog by plane.
If you plan to stay at home with your dog, you can get any size or type of crate that suits your needs and preferences.
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Uses of a Dog Crate
Dog crates have some incredible uses. The following are four key reasons for buying a crate for a German shepherd:
Crate Training
Planning for German shepherd training? Housetraining is the main target for most pet owners.
The puppy will accept the right-sized crate as a resting area and won’t spoil it by using the crate as a toilet.
You can also add blankets, or cushions, or cover the bottom with a sheet to let the pet use the crate as a resting area.
Cool Down Area
As an experienced pet owner, you should know that a puppy can get over-excited at a certain point, especially while playing with kids, friends, or other dogs.
A dog crate is a handy solution to calm the puppy down if they get over-excited.
It will also let you isolate your German shepherd from the excitement of the house and keep them cool.
Their Own Space
Sometimes, dogs require a peaceful place to rest. So, offering a crate to a German shepherd will let them relax whenever they want.
In fact, dogs are also naturally denning animals
Avoiding Destruction
Closing the German shepherd in the crate can also offer you a safe house.
A dog crate will be a lifesaver to prevent destruction if your pet tends to chew or dig at things.
A crate will also prevent the dog from accessing your private areas, especially when you aren’t around them.
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FAQs About German Shepherd Crate
What’s the best way to introduce crate training?
Start slowly, leaving the door open at first with treats inside to build comfort. Build up alone time over weeks to avoid separation anxiety
Where Should Your German Shepherd Sleep?
If your German shepherd is a puppy, it should sleep in the crate. An adult German shepherd can sleep outside whether it feels good, but the crate is the best place for a puppy.
Are wire or plastic crates better for containing a German Shepherd?
German Shepherds tend to prefer the den-like security of plastic kennels but wire crates allow more ventilation and visibility.
Can I crate my German Shepherd for up to 8 hours at a time?
Limit crating to no more than 6-8 hours maximum per day in adulthood. Provide potty breaks, training, exercise, and affection daily.
How can I prevent my German Shepherd from disliking their crate?
Make it comfortable with a bed and toys, provide praise and treats for voluntary entry, and never use it as punishment to build a positive association.
Final words
Crate training is an important yet helpful step in housetraining a German shepherd, but it can be tough without using the right size crate.
Therefore, determining what size crate for German shepherds is vital for their proper training and comfortable sleeping.
After reading the guide you should be able to pick the right size crate whether it is for puppy medium or adult German shepherd.
