Top 10 Best Dog Crate For A German Shepherd In 2024

German Shepherds are the perfect mix of brains and love. Their undying devotion and intelligence make them one of the most popular dog breeds. 

Be warned, though. German Shepherds are true escape artists – always ready to sneak out for an adventure.

If your big four-legged friend spends a lot of time in your yard, you need a suitable dog house for him. 

A dog house will satisfy your pet’s denning needs, protect him from the elements, and give him a place to call his own.

Will any dog house work?

Of course not!

In this article, we will share our top picks for the best dog crate for a German Shepherd.

By the end of the post, you’ll be able to select a home for your pet that’s safe, durable, and visually appealing.

When selecting the best dog house for a German Shepherd, you need to keep in mind their size, weight, temperament, habits, and lifestyle. The dog house should be sturdy, easy to clean, and airy. Also, keep portability, insulation, and assembling process in mind. 

Want to learn more? 

Stay with us as we reveal our pick for the best dog house for your German Shepherd.

Why Your German Shepherd Needs the Right Dog House

German Shepherds are active dogs that spend most of their time outdoors playing, working, or guarding.

They like to get dirty and enjoy chewing on things. When they finish their daily chores, they need a place to crash! That’s where their dog house comes in. 

However, you can’t make do with just any house. You need one that’s comfortable for your pup to move in, lie down, and turn around.

It should also provide the denning experience that dogs want so your pup feels psychologically calm.

If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, your German Shepherd’s house will protect him from extreme temperatures, wind, rain, or snow. 

GSDs are also big shedders. But with a dog house that comes with a removable roof, cleaning will be a breeze.

Hey, but no two dogs are the same. And so, before you move any further, here are a few questions to ask yourself.

The answers to these questions will help you pick the best dog crate for your German Shepherd. 

Questions to Ask When Choosing a German Shepherd Dog House

Each dog has their own requirements. You can’t pick the best dog house for your German Shepherd unless you have answers to the following questions:

What’s the Size and Weight of My Dog?

The best dog crate for a German Shepherd is one with enough room for your dog to move around, switch sides, stretch his legs, and stand up. 

You need to measure three key dimensions to pick an appropriate dog house size. These include:

• Length: Measure your dog from the tip of his nose to the base of his tail for accurate measurements.
• Height: Measure your dog from the ground to the top of his head or ears, depending on which is taller, while he’s standing straight.
• Width: Measure your dog from shoulder to shoulder for an accurate width measurement.

Does My Dog Have Any Health Conditions That Require Special Attention?

GSDs are one of the top dogs with health risks like hip and elbow dysplasia. 

These conditions cause joint pain, stiffness, and lameness – especially in large breeds. That’s why your German Shepherd needs a house with extra cushioning that will keep his joints healthy.

The house should also have a broad entrance so your dog doesn’t have to struggle while getting in and out of his retreat.

What’s the Temperament of My Dog? 

German Shepherds are natural diggers with a tendency to turn anything and everything into a chewed-up mess if bored.

If you have a digger, you need a dog house with reinforced corners and a base to withstand the digging.

Similarly, if your dog likes chewing on things, pick a house made of durable materials. 

Am I Looking for a Portable Dog house for Travel Purposes?

Traveling with your furry friend is a rewarding experience. But you need to make sure your dog is comfortable throughout the trip. So, you’ll have to take his crate along. 

Pick one that is lightweight, easy to assemble, and comes with a handle for easy transportation. A dog house that folds flat is ideal, as it won’t take up much space in your car.

Where Will I Place My GSD’s House?

Pick a spot before bringing your dog’s house home. Like this, you’ll know exactly how much real estate you have. 

Planning to keep your dog’s house outdoors?

Double-check the highest and lowest temperature ranges of your area. This information will help you get a crate with insulation that keeps your pup comfortable during extreme weather.

Do I Need a House With a Removable Roof or Sides for Easy Cleaning? 

GSDs molt a lot. This makes them messy pets.

Plus, outdoor dogs track a lot of dirt into their house. 

All that fur, dirt, and spilled water means you’ll have to clean your GSD’s house frequently. Save yourself the trouble by picking a dog house with removable roofs or sides.

The 10 Best Dog Houses for a German Shepherd

Enough talk! Let’s cut right to the chase. Here are our top picks for the best dog crate for your GSD.

Best Overall: Zooba XL Dog House

This elevated, stylish dog house features a rust-resistant steel frame and waterproof PVC body. Keep it outdoors and watch your pup soak the sun while lounging in his new home.

The lightweight design makes it perfect for taking to picnics. Plus, you don’t need any tools for assembling it.

While it’s a winner for most, be cautious if your dog has a knack for chewing. This cozy retreat may not withstand their teething tendencies. The frame might also not hold up to the lively antics of a bed-jumper.

Pros

• Waterproof
• Breathable
• Elevated design
• Resistant to paw friction

Cons

• Not very durable
• Easy-to-chew fabric

Best Value: MidWest Homes for Pets Eilio

This is the best crate for your German Shepherd dog when it comes to visual appeal.

It boasts a sturdy and stylish wooden exterior with an offset door and an adorable sun motif on the roof. 

The elevated front will keep your pet dry during the wet season, and you can adjust the feet for a perfectly level setup.

It’s a great option for novice dog owners with its straightforward assembly process.

The only drawback is the gaps in the floorboard that can let in drafts during the colder months.

Pros

• No tool assembly
• Water-resistant wood and rust-proof steel
• Aesthetic design
• Option to purchase an insulation kit

Cons

• Poor paint finishing

Best For Puppies: Amazon Basics Foldable Wire Crate

Are you looking for a crate with metal wires for your little dog? If so, get an Amazon Basic foldable dog crate.

This dog crate comes in two options: single and double-door. There are also dividers so you can adjust the interior size as your pup grows.

It’s the best size dog crate for a German Shepherd puppy. Since this wire crate is available in 7 different sizes, you can get one that’s fit for your dog.

But don’t get too excited; plastic pans and trays are prone to cracking. So, you’ll have to replace them now and then.

Also, some users have complained that their dogs’ paws and jaws got stuck at the bottom of the mesh.

Pros

• Durable construction
• Easy to clean
• Easy to store and transport
• No assembly required

Cons

• Slightly pliable
• Poor design that can cause injury

Best For Travel: Petmate Sky Kennel

Petmate Sky Kennel is the best dog kennel for a German Shepherd traveling.

With its side and back ventilation, secure locking, and heavy-duty construction, this crate is IATA-approved for air travel. 

The 4-sided ventilation system makes it perfect for all seasons, while the metal nuts and bolts help secure your dog inside. 

The only downside is that the metal bolts tend to come off easily, which can be a problem during air travel. You might also have to update it with straps to make it more secure.

Pros

• Comes with extras like animal stickers, food, and a water bowl 
• Durable design with interlocking design
• Available in six different sizes

Cons

• Needs to be updated according to new airline regulations
• Some users have complained about the quality of the plastic material used

Best for Escape Artists: LUCKUP Heavy Duty Dog Cage

Do you have an escape artist who has tried every trick in the book to break out of his crate? Get the LUCKUP Heavy Duty Dog Cage.

The indestructible, corrosion-free steel frame and two sturdy locks make this crate impenetrable, even for the most persistent pets.

The removable plastic tray makes it easy to clean up any messes, while the four rolling casters make it convenient to move around. 

Some parents feel the crate looks too “jail-like” with the standard silver and grey color options.

Pros

• Comes in 3 different colors and 5 different sizes
• Bite resistant
• 360-degree rotatable wheels at the bottom 
• Aesthetically pleasing

Cons

• Tightening nuts get rusty
• The metal bars are slightly far apart

Petmate XL Dog House

Get an igloo-style house for your pet dog to snuggle in. The heavy-duty plastic body can withstand all weather conditions.

The roof vents will keep things cool inside your dog’s house during the hot days. Plus, the raised floor and side moats will help drain water out during the rainy season.

But beware, some users have complained about receiving a damaged product.

Pros

• Weather-resistant
• Leakproof design
• Highly durable

Cons

• Doesn’t have a snug fitting
• Narrow entrance 

Dwanton Dog Crate

Some of us struggle with floor space and budget. If you’re in a similar boat, this Dwanton dog crate will be a savior.

It’s a wooden dog crate that doubles as an end table. Plus, you get an option to select from four different sizes.

Fellow dog parents love the double door feature and the soft cushion that comes along. The bottom plate is solid and smooth, so your pup’s feet won’t get trapped. 

Although the crate is made of chew-resistant material, it’s not so durable for dogs who enjoy digging.

And if your doggo happens to have multiple pee accidents in his crate, the particle floorboard may warp.

Pros

• Multipurpose dog crate that looks good 
• Available in four sizes
• Comes with a comfy cushion

Cons

• The sizes mentioned aren’t accurate
• Not so durable

Amazon Basics Collapsible Travel Crate

Sometimes, all a dog needs is a soft-sided dog crate that’s airy and cozy. If your little puppy likes his privacy, get the Amazon Basics Collapsible crate.

The lightweight and breathable design makes it perfect for traveling. You also don’t need any tools to set this up. Plus, it folds flat, making it compact and perfect for storage. 

But beware; it’s not a long-lasting option. Some users have complained about the zipping mechanism wearing down over time. 

Pros

• Sturdy PVC frame 
• Easy to setup
• Portable and compact
• Extremely airy

Cons

• Flimsy zipper 
• Not suitable for heavy chewers

New Age Pet ecoFLEX Pet Crate

Add an aesthetically pleasing dog crate that doubles as a side table. This ecoFLEX pet crate is made of non-toxic recycled plastic-wood composite material that won’t warp, split, or crack.

It also comes in four neutral colors that’ll easily blend with your interior.

Since the material is moisture-free, you’ll barely ever have odor issues. And your cleanup day will be a breeze because the top opens up like a regular table.

Sadly, some users faced alignment and construction issues. 

Pros

• Multipurpose
• Made of long-lasting and recyclable material
• Moisture-resistant

Cons

• Poor alignment and construction
• Not recommended for dogs with separation anxiety

Homey Heavy Duty Stackable Crate

None of us enjoy cleaning up after our dogs. It’s a tough job. But with the Homey heavy-duty crate, you’ll save time and energy.

It features a removable floor grid, a slide-out plastic tray, and a top that can open to make cleaning easier. 

The kennel is stackable, so you can create a “cabin” for multiple dogs or even use it as a table to keep your pet’s toys.

Pros

• Anti-rust
• Stackable design for space-saving

Cons

• Not tall enough for your German Shepherd to be able to stand
• Tricky to put together

Buyer’s Guide: Selecting The Best Dog Crate for a German Shepherd

In the next section, we will look at some key factors to consider when choosing a dog house for your German Shepherd.

German Shepherd Size

According to the American Kennel Club, the average size of a German Shepherd is as follows:

Male German Shepherds

• Height: 24-26 inches 
• Weight: 65-90 lbs.

Female German Shepherds

• Height: 22-24 inches
• Weight: 50-70 lbs.

The average length for an adult male and female German Shepherd ranges from 36-42.5 inches. 

The best dog crate for a German Shepherd will be 4-6 inches larger than your dog’s size.

If you’re hunting for the best size dog crate for a female German Shepherd, get one that measures 42 inches long.

Durable Construction

German Shepherds are powerful dogs with broad muzzles and strong jawbones.

Their bite force is 238 psi, which can break human bones. Do you think a poorly constructed dog house stands a chance? 

No way! 

Therefore, you need to be extra wary of the material you select. It should also be resistant to scratching. 

Heating and Insulation

German Shepherd owners living in extremely cold areas with temperatures dropping below 45°F will need a house to keep their dog comfy when it gets chilly outside. 

Leaving your GSD out when the mercury drops below 20°F can be fatal for him. If he lies on the cold ground, he could develop hypothermia, frostbite, or other health issues.

Cooling and Ventilation

GSDs are thick-furred, high-spirited smarties who get overheated too soon. It only points to the need for one crucial dog house feature – proper ventilation. 

Crates and houses with vents, windows, and doors provide sufficient air circulation. It keeps your GSD cool when it’s hot outside.

Portability

GSDs make excellent travel companions. 

But lugging around a 90-pound crate isn’t an ideal situation for you. If you enjoy traveling with your furry friend, get a crate that is easy to carry and set up. 

How Easy is Assembling the Dog House

When it comes to setting up your pup’s cozy haven, the time and effort matter. Usually, it takes about an hour – give or take. Some are quicker; some take a bit more patience.

Besides time, assess the difficulty level. Some houses are easy to assemble and need only household tools. Others may require extra hands, specialized tools, and a bit of tech wizardry.

How Easy is Maintaining the Dog House?

Now, let’s talk upkeep. You don’t want a high-maintenance situation. So, go for materials that give a hard pass to germs and are resistant to stains and funny odors.

Having said that, you’ll still have to clean your dog’s house when needed. Make sure the process is a cakewalk by getting a house with removable sides, floor, and roof. 

German Shepherd Dog House Style

We get it; practicality is the topmost priority when shopping for a dog house. But that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style!

After all, your pup’s house will adorn your garden or backyard.

Add-ons like built-in bowls, a porch, or an awning will elevate that pup’s crib game! 

Dog House Material

No two dog house materials offer the same benefits. So, you’ll need to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each material.

Let us help you out:

Wood Dog House

Wood is a top choice for dog houses due to its natural insulation, aesthetic appeal, and eco-friendliness. These houses need frequent resealing to prevent warping.

Of course, a wooden dog house is on the pricier end. But it’s worth the investment.

Plastic Dog House

Plastic is a budget-friendly option for dog houses. However, it may lack breathability, and some dogs can easily chew through it.

Check for durability, especially for larger breeds like German Shepherds.

Steel and Fabric Dog House

Fabric crates with sturdy steel frames are perfect for GSD puppies. They are lightweight and keep the temperature within comfortable levels.

But if you have a brutal chewer, fabric crates won’t cut it. Plus, the fabric will tear if a heavy dog decides to paw his way out.

Concrete Dog House

Concrete is a popular yet controversial choice for outdoor dog houses. It’s durable, spacious, and weather-resistant, but it can also be dull-looking and too cold or hot as per the weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Any Crate be Used for a German Shepherd?

Nope! The best crate for a German Shepherd dog will be large enough for the fur baby to stand, turn around, and stretch. There should be sufficient ventilation, and it should be easy to clean. 

Can I Keep a German Shepherd in a Crate for 6 Hours?

It’s not recommended to keep your GSD in a crate for this long. They need bathroom breaks, exercise, and human interaction.

Crating for too long too often can cause your dog to become depressed. Stockholm Syndrome and separation anxiety are real threats in this case.

Is it Okay to Leave a German Shepherd Out All Night Long Without a Crate?

If the weather is nice and your dog wants to spend some time outdoors, it’s all good!

However, it’s best to keep your loving canine in a crate or house when you aren’t around. It’ll give him a sense of safety.

What Size Crate Do You Recommend for an Adult German Shepherd (Not Full-Grown)?

A 42 to 48-inch crate is best for an average adult German Shepherd. Measure your dog’s size and weight before buying any dog crate to be sure.

Pawsome Picks for a German Shepherd Retreat

We all want our furry friends to live their best lives, and the right dog house can help with that. 

Since German Shepherds are large dogs with a lot of energy and thick fur, they need durable, spacious, and airy dog houses. 

If you’re looking for the best dog house for your German Shepherd, make sure to consider factors like insulation, ventilation, portability, and style.

And don’t forget to choose a material that is both comfortable for your dog and easy for you to maintain.

We hope you’ll be able to find the perfect dog house for your German Shepherd and give them a cozy, safe, and stylish home to call their own. 

Are you looking for a dog crate for your French Bulldog, Great Dane, or any other breed? Check out our other guides for more helpful tips and information.

Happy dog parenting!