Crates for German Shepherds: How to Select
Pet owners often opt for Crates when providing a separate space for their dogs.
All dogs love their own dedicated space where they can feel more homely and personal.
And especially if we talk about German Shepherds, Dog Crates are any day a good choice.
Keeping a German Shepherd in a dog crate is helpful in a number of ways.
Primarily if your dog is all destructive and messy around the house, it’s time to invest in a Dog crate.
There could be several reasons behind their destructive behavior, though, with crate training, you can teach them to follow the house rule.
Buying a Dog Crate for a German Shepherd isn’t a difficult task. But when there are endless options to choose from, the process can get a little tricky.
After a lot of research, we have decided to compile the most helpful information about Dog Crates.
All dog owners, make sure you spare some additional time going through the information before you make your final purchase.
Types of Dog Crates for German Shepherds
- Soft-sided crates– They are light weighted, affordable, and easy to carry around. Though for dogs who like to dig and chew everything, Soft-sided crates are unsuitable.
- Aluminum crates– One of the best in range, they are both foldable and fixed. Such crates ensure easy airflow, stays strong for a lifetime, and are easier to port around.
- Plastic crates- They are travel-friendly and affordable, ideal for small and lazy dogs. Though not ideal for dogs who dig and chew things around.
- Hybrid crates- Also known as combination crates, they are made up of aluminum, coated steel wire mesh, and reinforced plastic. Hybrid crates are one of the best in range and would last you for years.
- Travel crates- Such crates are specially designed for traveling both on-road and by air. They might not make a good house crate but are tested for safety from traveling conditions.
- Decorative Crates- They are the bulkier crates that would provide your dog home and add a decorative element. However, they are always in a higher price range.
The 11 Best Crates for German Shepherds in 2021
Our Top Picks
- MidWestiCrate Starter Kit- Best Overall
- Petsfit Travel Pet Home Indoor/Outdoor– Best for Travel
- ECOFLEX Dog Crate – Best Furniture Crate
- Zampa Pet Playpen – Best for Outdoor
- Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel- Best for Air travels
MidWest Home Ultimate Pro Folding Metal Dog Crate
Price range- $156.00
It comes with two convenient doors (front and right) that provide enough moving space and latches securely in place.
When not in use, pet owners can simply flat fold that Crate, making it as compact as a small briefcase.
Depending upon your dog’s size, you can choose from 5 options (24-inches, 30-inches, 36-inches, 42-inches, and 48-inches).
For cleaning, remove the plastic pan and wash it under running water.
Bottom Line
It is a simple, no-nonsense dog crate for German Shepherds.
Despite presenting fancy options, MidWest ensures utmost usability with its product.
MidWest Homes for Pets Dog Crate
Price range- $39.99 to $41.99
While assembled, it secures with patented rounded clips from inside.
Therefore, unlike another low-quality crate, this Crate will save your dog from painful scratches.
Depending on your dog’s size, you can choose from 7 sizes (18 inches to 36 inches).
MidWest also offers Single Door and Double Door options, including two color choices, Pink and Blue.
These crates can ideally accommodate dogs from 40lbs to 70lbs, which is fine enough for a German Shepherd.
When not in use, fold-flat the Crate and store/ port it anywhere conveniently.
Bottom Line
It is by far the best metal dog crate to invest in. Depending upon the price, everything the Crate offers is all worth it.
Petsfit Travel Pet Home Indoor/Outdoor
Price range $76.99
There’s a comfortable faux fur pad inside with a removable cover for machine washing.
Its leak-proof bottom will protect the surface underneath from getting wet (dog pee).
You might have a super-energetic dog, but the non-slip sheet will keep the Crate from sliding.
It has two doors (front and side) with zippers that ensure easy moving (entry and exit) for your dog.
Fold everything, fasten the buckles, and your lightweight dog crate is good to go when not in use.
Bottom line
While you are taking your furry friend for a trip, there isn’t a better option than Petsfit travel crate.
Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel
Price Range- $99.99
The Petmate Ultra is a hybrid dog Kennel/ crate ideal for travels, especially flights.
It is made from heavy-duty plastic, metal grid, and screws and is designed for lasting long.
It has wired ventilation from all sides that ensure superior airflow and provides 360-degree visibility.
Its door is extremely heavy-duty, and one can latch shut it with two locks on top and bottom.
You can easily assemble the Crate, and for flights/ air travels, it has proper tie-downs.
You don’t have to worry about your pet’s safety in the plane’s pet section.
The Crate comes in 4 sizes, 28-inches, 32-inches, 36-inches, and 40 inches.
Depending upon your German Shepherd’s age and size, you can invest accordingly.
Bottom Line
Air travelers who are very frequent with flights must definitely invest in this Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel.
As it meets all the traveling requirements, you won’t find any issues while taking your furry friend along on flights.
ECOFLEX Dog Crate
Price Range- $86.99
Further, it comprises spindles made of stainless steel tubing and a stainless-steel latch that adds to the robustness.
Not just as a crate, but the upper level serves ideally as a bedside table as well.
You can buy this Crate in four colors, including Expresso, Antique white, grey, and russet.
Or go for small (up to 20lbs dog), medium (50lbs), large (80lbs), and X-large (100lbs) depending upon your dog’s weight/size.
Bottom Line
Pet owners who are low on space can invest in this handy and functional Crate.
You can replace it with your side table or bed stand and can fulfill two usages in one.
Casual Home Wooden Medium Pet Crate
Price range- $135.04
It is equipped with a lockable latch that secures firmly and provides peace of mind.
For assembling, everything comes with the product itself.
The Crate comes in 4 colors, including White, Walnut, Espresso, and Black.
You can pick any of them depending on which one will suit your room interior better. It provides both a crate and an end table.
Bottom line
If you are looking for a wooden crate option, this one from Casual Home is a good enough deal to go for.
Especially for pups and small dogs, it is good to go.
Zampa Portable Foldable Pet playpen
Price Range- $69.99 to $89.99
It has a mesh top and several small mesh windows on all sides for ensured ventilation.
There are also two side pockets and a bottle holder on the exteriors.
The playpen cum crate from Zampa comes pre-assembled.
Simply open the box, and it will pop up in seconds. When not in use, fold it flat, put it inside the bag, and you are good to go.
It comes in 5 different sizes and 4 different colors. However, this playpen is only meant for pups, small breeds, and peace-loving dogs.
Bottom line
If you often spend your time outdoors, consider adding this playpen cum crate into your dog essentials.
It will let your pup stay in front of your eyes while having its own comfort zone.
MidWestiCrate Starter Kit
Buy at amazon
Price range- $144.99
The Crate is equipped with a double door for an easier entry and exit.
The Crate comes with a fleece crate bed and a waterproof cover.
There are two Snap’y Fit Food & Water Bowls inside.
It adds to the convenience of serving your dog some snacks and water inside the Crate only.
This MidWestiCrate and all added components are easy to clean. You can wipe, wash, or dry clean at your convenience.
The MidWestiCrate Starter Kit is by far the best dog crate for German Shepherds. A quality and functional product within this price range is a steal to go for.
Pet Gear “The Other Door” 4 Door Steel Crate
Price range- $110.58 to $187.49
- Measures 27"L x 18.25"W x 21.75"H |For pets up to 30-pounds
- 4 doors, including the large side door that opens up and out of the way like a garage door
- Color-coordinated plush bolster bed included for your pets comfort
- No tools needed to set up or fold down and includes storage bag for easy transport
- Rounded corners and no exposed steel edges protect you and your pet from sharp edges
This largest door/ garage door opens up out of the way for ultimate convenience.
The Crate comes with a color-coordinated plush bolster bed for the sleeping comfort of pets.
Because the entire Crate is insulated, no matter how cold it gets, it won’t crack.
The Crate is easy to assemble; just fix all the parts firmly together, and you are done.
When not in use, remove all the sides and store inside the upper and lower case, just like a box.
It also comes with a travel bag (wheels includes) for easy movability.
Bottom Line
If budget is not a restriction for you, this Crate from Pet Gear is ideal for you.
Make sure you own a small or medium-sized dog, or else the Crate might fall short.
SMONTER Heavy Duty Dog Crate
Buy at amazon
Price range- $239.99
It comes in various sizes and is designed well enough for housing adult German Shepherds.
There are two-door, one on the front and one above. Both doors close with a firm lock and would stay firm even if your dog applies pressure.
It is equipped with castor wheels on the base for easy movability.
Though when not required, you can press the lock and make the Crate stand firmly on the ground.
There’s also a sterilization and odor removal tray underneath.
Bottom Line
The SMONTER Heavy Duty Dog Crate is a great buying option for individuals with adult dogs or destructive ones.
If budget isn’t a consideration for you, this is one fine option to go with.
EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate
Price Range- $108.99 to $199.99
While the crate frame is made of strong steel tube, its cover comprises high-quality, durable 600D fabric and hex mesh fabric.
It is ventilated from all sides and thus would keep your pet comfortable through time.
It has three mesh doors, two on the sides and one on the top. For small pups and small dog breeds, it is an ideal option to go with.
The Crate has a handle on the top that provides convenience for carrying it around.
You can either fold it flat or move it big; both actions are well comforting.
Bottom Line
If your German Shepherd needs a crate occasionally, this EliteField Crate can be your good-to-go option.
It is ideal for both indoor and outdoor usage.
tips before buying a dog crate for German Shepherd
Invest in the correct size. Regardless of the standard size norms, always go for a slightly bigger dog crate. It will allow your German Shepherd to move comfortably around. Avoid anything that will restrict their movement.
Go for the appropriate crate type. Dog crates are available in various types depending upon how and where you want to use them. Make sure you read ‘Types of Dog Crates’ and then decide on the specific one.
Know your dog’s temperament and behavior. A quiet puppy can go well enough in a plastic or mesh crate. Because they aren’t destructive with things around them, you do not need to invest in a heavy-duty crate for them.
However, do not go for any light crate if your dog is muscular, weighted, and aggressive. Invest in a heavy-duty crate, specifically, that has strong door latches.
Durability. Dog crates aren’t something you would invest upon frequently. While your initial investment can be expensive, make sure the Crate is strong and reliable enough to last long. Avoid investing in cheap plastic and metals that are prone to rust.
Portability. Invest in a movable crate so that you can take it along in different rooms. If you are going for big crates, check if they come with wheels; if not, consider a lightweight one.
The folding mechanism also defines how portable your dog crate is. Apart from wooden crates, most of the other varieties are easy to fold and store.
Travel friendly. Though several travel-friendly dog crates are available in the market, not all of them meet airline standards. If you are a frequent traveler, go for a dog crate that meets most of the airline standards.
Comfort. To ensure comfort, the dog crate must have round wires specifically from within. Do check if there are any pointed openings/ sharp edges left inside. Also, make sure it has a little bit of padding inside.
Summary
Choosing a Dog crate for your German Shepherd is not a tricky task; however, some expert advice always helps.
Consider getting a dog crate while your dog is new or really small. It is easier to crate train when dogs aren’t aware of the house.
Once they now place inside, they might not choose to sit or stay in one place.
