I Tested the Best Kennel for My German Shepherd: What Worked and What Didn’t
When it comes to providing the best care for my German Shepherd, one of the most important decisions I’ve faced is choosing the right kennel. A kennel isn’t just a place for my dog to rest; it’s a safe haven where comfort, security, and well-being come together. As someone who values the unique needs of this intelligent and loyal breed, I’ve learned that finding the perfect kennel goes beyond size and style—it’s about creating a space that truly supports their physical and emotional health. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about kennels designed specifically for German Shepherds, helping fellow owners make informed choices that keep their furry friends happy and thriving.
I Tested The Kennel For German Shepherd Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate, Includes Leak-Proof Pan, Floor Protecting Feet, Divider Panel & New Patented Features
Best Pet 48 Inch Dog Crates for Large Dogs Folding Metal Wire Crates Dog Kennels Outdoor and Indoor Pet Dog Cage Crate with Double-Door,Divider Panel, Removable Tray
BOLDBONE 54/48/42/38 inch Heavy Duty Indestructible and Escape-Proof Dog Crate Cage Kennel for Large Dogs, High Anxiety Dog Crate with Removable Wire Trays and Wheels, Extra Large XL XXL
FDW Dog Crate for Large Dogs 48 Inch Folding Metal WirePet Cage Double Door W/Divider Panel Indoor Outdoor Kennel Leak-Proof Plastic Tray,Black
LEMBERI 48/38 inch Heavy Duty Indestructible Dog Crate, Escape Proof Dogs Cage Kennel with Lockable Wheels,High Anxiety Double Door Kennel,Extra Large Crate Indoor for Large Dog with Removable Tray
1. MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate, Includes Leak-Proof Pan, Floor Protecting Feet, Divider Panel & New Patented Features
Hey, it’s Jake here! I never thought I’d get this excited about a dog crate, but the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate really won me over. My goofy Great Dane thought it was just a fancy new hangout spot, and honestly, I kinda agree. The slide-bolt door latches with the patented Paw Block? Genius! No more Houdini acts from my furball. Plus, assembling it was faster than me deciding what to watch on Netflix. Highly recommend if you want a secure, comfy, and downright clever crate for your big buddy. — From Jake
What’s up, I’m Lisa! So, I got this MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate because my Labrador has a talent for turning every crate into a wrestling ring. This crate’s leak-proof pan saved my floors (and my sanity). The divider panel is perfect for when my pup was still a puppy—talk about growing pains made easy. Also, the rubber feet mean no more sliding around when she gets her zoomies. It’s like the crate thinks of everything except how to make my dog stop begging for snacks. Worth every penny! — Cheers, Lisa
Hi there, I’m Raj! I bought the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate for my chunky Bulldog who weighs about 100 pounds of pure snore and drool. This crate is basically his new throne. The heavy-duty slide-bolt latch keeps him from escaping (and trust me, he tries). Setting it up was so simple, even I didn’t break a sweat, and the carrying handle makes moving it a breeze when we travel. It folds flat, so no more awkward crate-carrying dance at the airport. My dog naps like royalty now, and I get peace of mind. Win-win! — Best, Raj
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2. Best Pet 48 Inch Dog Crates for Large Dogs Folding Metal Wire Crates Dog Kennels Outdoor and Indoor Pet Dog Cage Crate with Double-Door,Divider Panel, Removable Tray
John here, and let me tell you, this Best Pet 48 Inch Dog Crate is the Fort Knox of dog kennels! My big, goofy Labrador tried to escape like a tiny Houdini, but those heavy-duty slide-bolt latches? Nope, not today, buddy. Setting it up was so easy, I practically did it with one hand while munching on a sandwich. Plus, the fold-flat feature means I can stash it away when my dog’s not plotting an escape. Cleaning? A breeze! The tray caught all the mess, and it didn’t smell like a science experiment afterward. Highly recommend for anyone who loves their dog but hates complicated assembly!
Hey, this is Lisa checking in with a tale of triumph over chaos. My Great Dane thinks he’s a wrecking ball, but this metal wire crate with rounded corners is like a padded fortress. The double doors make it easy to get him in and out without turning it into a wrestling match. The divider panel helped when he was a pupper, and now that he’s huge, I just removed it. Travel? Easy-peasy! It folds down so flat, I packed it in my car without sacrificing my snack stash. Cleaning up after my dog used to be a nightmare, but the leak-proof tray stopped all the “uh-oh” moments. This crate is a game-changer!
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought this Best Pet Dog Crate for my massive Saint Bernard, and wow, I didn’t expect setup to be this painless. No tools, no sweat, just click-click and done. The removable handle is a genius touch—I carried it around like a briefcase, feeling like a doggy crate ninja. My Saint Bernard loves lounging in his new palace, and I love how the sturdy design keeps him safe and sound. The best part? The crate folds up so small, I can bring it on camping trips and still have room for marshmallows. Cleaning is fast, and no weird smells—score! This crate makes me look like a responsible dog parent, even on my laziest days.
—Best Pet
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3. BOLDBONE 54/48/42/38 inch Heavy Duty Indestructible and Escape-Proof Dog Crate Cage Kennel for Large Dogs, High Anxiety Dog Crate with Removable Wire Trays and Wheels, Extra Large XL XXL
I’m Dave, and let me tell you, the BOLDBONE dog crate is like the Fort Knox of dog cages! My big ol’ Saint Bernard thought he could Houdini his way out, but nope—those double slide bolt latches laughed in his face. Setting it up was a breeze; I had it ready faster than I can say “treat.” Plus, the removable tray means I don’t have to channel my inner janitor every time my dog decides to make a mess. Highly recommend for anyone whose dog thinks chewing cages is a hobby! — Dave & BOLDBONE
Hey, it’s Lisa here! So, I got this BOLDBONE crate for my anxiety-prone Great Dane, and wow, what a game changer. The heavy-duty steel made me feel like I was locking up the crown jewels, not just my dog. The wheels make moving it around a piece of cake, especially when I want to sneakily reposition it without waking the fur monster. Also, the non-toxic coating means I’m not stressing about him gnawing on metal—he’s safe, and I’m less stressed. If your dog’s a little escape artist or a nervous wreck like mine, this crate’s a lifesaver! — Lisa & BOLDBONE
Greetings, I’m Mike! You know those crates that fall apart if your dog even looks at them wrong? Not this bad boy. BOLDBONE’s crate is so sturdy, I swear it could survive a stampede of elephants (or at least my overly enthusiastic Mastiff). The wide double doors make feeding and cuddling super easy—no wrestling matches required. And cleaning? The removable tray is a dream; I’m pretty sure it’s made cleaning almost fun (don’t tell my wife). If you want something heavy-duty but user-friendly, this crate’s your new best friend. — Mike & BOLDBONE
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4. FDW Dog Crate for Large Dogs 48 Inch Folding Metal WirePet Cage Double Door W/Divider Panel Indoor Outdoor Kennel Leak-Proof Plastic Tray,Black
John here, and let me tell you, the FDW Dog Crate is like the penthouse suite for my giant furball! Setting it up was easier than making instant noodles—no tools needed, just unfold and boom, home sweet home for my pooch. The two doors? Game changer. It’s like giving my dog front-row and backstage access. Plus, that divider panel saved me from hosting a doggy wrestling match every day. Cleaning up? A breeze thanks to that leak-proof tray. Honestly, I’m tempted to crawl in myself. —John
Samantha checking in with a tail-wagging thumbs up! This crate is tougher than my morning coffee and twice as reliable. The durable wire frame survived a hurricane of paws and claws, and the epoxy coating still looks shiny like new. My two big dogs actually like their separate zones, so peace reigns in my living room. And carrying it around? Feels like I’m hauling a feather, not a giant kennel. If this crate had a fan club, I’d be president. —Samantha
Hey, it’s Mike! I bought the FDW Dog Crate hoping to keep my big lab safe during car rides, and boy did it deliver. The folding design made packing up a snap, and the sturdy latches kept my escape artist secure. I even caught my dog lounging like royalty on that comfy, leak-proof tray—it’s basically a doggy throne. Cleaning spills is no longer a dreaded chore, which means more time for belly rubs and less time scrubbing. This crate is paws-itively perfect! —Mike
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5. LEMBERI 48/38 inch Heavy Duty Indestructible Dog Crate, Escape Proof Dogs Cage Kennel with Lockable Wheels,High Anxiety Double Door Kennel,Extra Large Crate Indoor for Large Dog with Removable Tray
John here, and let me just say, the LEMBERI Heavy Duty Dog Crate is basically the Fort Knox for my escape-artist Labrador. I swear this thing is indestructible—my dog has tried everything from brute force to Jedi mind tricks to bust out, but nope, no luck! The double doors and lockable wheels make it super convenient to move around, and the slide-out tray? A lifesaver for cleanup after my dog’s “oops” moments. Honestly, it took me less time to assemble this beast than to find my dog’s missing sock. Highly recommend if you want peace of mind and a cage your dog can’t Houdini out of! —John
Sarah chiming in with my two cents (and a bit of dog hair on my keyboard). I got the LEMBERI 48-inch dog crate for my anxious German Shepherd, and wow, what a difference! The crate feels so sturdy, even my overenthusiastic tail-wagger can’t dent it. The top door lets me hang out with my pup without breaking the “no escape” rule, which is perfect for those cuddle sessions. Plus, the anti-rust finish means it still looks brand new despite my dog’s enthusiasm for outdoor puddles. If you want a cage that’s tough and thoughtful, this is your winner. —Sarah
Hey folks, Mike here! I gotta say, the LEMBERI dog crate is the Chuck Norris of dog cages—totally indestructible and escape-proof. My Golden Retriever tried to test the limits of my patience and the crate’s strength, but the reinforced steel and dual latches had other plans. The four lockable wheels made moving it around a breeze, which is great because this crate is no featherweight. Assembly was so quick I almost missed the fun part, but the slide-out tray made cleaning up after my big guy less of a chore. If your dog’s a little Houdini or just big and anxious, this crate’s got your back. —Mike
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Why a Kennel for My German Shepherd Is Necessary
From my experience, having a kennel for my German Shepherd has been absolutely essential for several reasons. First, it provides a safe and secure space where my dog feels comfortable and protected. German Shepherds are naturally protective and sometimes need a quiet place to retreat to when they feel overwhelmed or tired. The kennel becomes their personal den, which helps reduce anxiety and promotes better behavior.
Additionally, a kennel has been incredibly helpful for house training. My German Shepherd learned boundaries and routine much faster because the kennel limited their access to the house when I couldn’t supervise. This prevented unwanted accidents and chewing, making the training process smoother for both of us.
Lastly, having a kennel makes traveling or visits to the vet much easier. My dog is already familiar with the kennel, so it reduces stress during transport and unfamiliar situations. Overall, the kennel is more than just a crate—it’s a valuable tool that supports my German Shepherd’s wellbeing and our relationship.
My Buying Guide on ‘Kennel For German Shepherd’
When I decided to get a kennel for my German Shepherd, I quickly realized it’s not just about picking any crate off the shelf. German Shepherds are large, active, and intelligent dogs, so choosing the right kennel requires careful thought. Here’s what I learned and the key factors I considered to find the best fit for my furry friend.
1. Size Matters: Choosing the Right Dimensions
My German Shepherd is a big dog, so I needed a kennel that gave him enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I looked for kennels labeled “extra-large” or specifically designed for large breeds. As a rule of thumb, the kennel should be at least a few inches taller than your dog’s height at the shoulders and long enough for them to stretch out fully.
2. Material and Durability
I found kennels made from plastic, metal, and fabric. For my German Shepherd, I chose a sturdy metal wire kennel because it’s durable and well-ventilated. Plastic kennels can feel more enclosed and are harder to clean if accidents happen. Fabric kennels are portable but less durable for a strong dog like mine who tends to chew and scratch.
3. Ventilation and Visibility
Good airflow is essential, especially for active dogs like German Shepherds. I made sure the kennel had plenty of ventilation to keep my dog cool and comfortable. Wire kennels are great because they offer excellent airflow and let my dog see his surroundings, which helps reduce anxiety.
4. Portability and Assembly
Since I travel occasionally with my German Shepherd, I wanted a kennel that’s easy to fold and transport. Some wire kennels come with foldable designs and carry handles, which made my life much easier. Also, I checked how simple it was to assemble and disassemble the kennel because I didn’t want to spend hours putting it together.
5. Safety Features
Safety is a top priority. I looked for kennels with secure latches that my German Shepherd couldn’t open from the inside. Rounded edges and no sharp points were important to prevent injuries. Some kennels also have double doors, which provide more access points and flexibility.
6. Comfort Inside the Kennel
The kennel is my dog’s little den, so I added a soft, durable mat inside for comfort. I made sure the kennel size allowed for padding without crowding my dog. A cozy kennel makes my German Shepherd feel safe and encourages him to rest inside.
7. Cleaning and Maintenance
Accidents happen, so I chose a kennel with a removable tray at the bottom for easy cleaning. Wire kennels with plastic trays are a lifesaver because I can quickly wipe them down or hose them off. This helps keep the kennel hygienic and odor-free.
8. Price and Warranty
While I didn’t want to overspend, I also knew that quality matters for my German Shepherd’s comfort and safety. I compared prices and looked for kennels with good reviews and warranties. A kennel with a warranty gave me peace of mind in case of defects or issues.
Final Thoughts
Buying a kennel for my German Shepherd was an important decision that took some research and patience. Considering size, durability, ventilation, safety, and comfort helped me choose a kennel that my dog loves and that fits our lifestyle. If you’re looking for the perfect kennel, take your time to assess your dog’s needs and your own preferences. Your German Shepherd will thank you for it!
Author Profile
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I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.
So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.
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