German Shepherds are a popular breed of dog due to their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. They are often used as police dogs, guide dogs, and search and rescue dogs. However, like all dogs, they require a comfortable living environment, and a dog crate can be a great solution. A properly sized crate can provide your German Shepherd with a safe and comfortable space to rest and relax, especially when they are not supervised. In this blog post, we will discuss the correct dog crate size for a German Shepherd from puppy to full-grown.
Why use a dog crate?
Before we discuss the correct size of a dog crate for a German Shepherd, let’s talk about why using a crate is beneficial. A crate is a safe and comfortable space for your dog that can provide them with a sense of security. It can also be an excellent tool for house training your puppy. When your puppy is in the crate, they are less likely to have an accident in the house since they will not want to soil their sleeping area. Additionally, a crate can help prevent destructive behavior such as chewing, digging, and other unwanted behaviors when you are not home.
Choosing the right size crate for your German Shepherd
When choosing a dog crate, it is important to choose the correct size to ensure your dog is comfortable and safe. Choosing a crate that is too small can be uncomfortable for your dog, while choosing a crate that is too large can be unsafe.
German Shepherd puppy crate size
When it comes to choosing a crate size for your German Shepherd puppy, it is essential to choose a size that allows your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If the crate is too small, your puppy will not be able to move around, which can lead to discomfort and anxiety. If the crate is too big, your puppy may feel insecure and may be more likely to soil the crate since they will not want to soil their sleeping area.
A good rule of thumb is to choose a crate that is 36 inches long, 24 inches wide, and 27 inches high. This size should be sufficient for most German Shepherd puppies, but it is always best to measure your puppy and choose a crate based on their measurements. Another option is to choose a crate with a divider that can be adjusted as your puppy grows. This allows you to purchase a larger crate initially and adjust the size as your puppy grows.
Adult German Shepherd crate size
As your German Shepherd grows and reaches adulthood, you will need to upgrade to a larger crate. Choosing the correct size crate for your adult German Shepherd is important for their comfort and safety.
A good rule of thumb is to choose a crate that is 42 inches long, 28 inches wide, and 30 inches high. This size should be sufficient for most adult German Shepherds, but it is always best to measure your dog and choose a crate based on their measurements. It is important to choose a crate that is large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
If you have a larger German Shepherd or your dog is taller than average, you may need to choose a larger crate. It is important to make sure the crate is not too small, as this can be uncomfortable for your dog. Additionally, it is important to choose a crate that is made from sturdy materials to ensure your dog’s safety.
Crate training your German Shepherd
Now that you know the correct size of a crate for your German Shepherd, it is essential to understand how to properly crate train your dog. Crate training is a process that requires patience and consistency. Here are some tips for crate training your German Shepherd:
- Introduce the crate gradually – Start by introducing the crate to your German Shepherd gradually. Place treats and toys in the crate to encourage your dog to explore
- Make the crate comfortable – Place a soft bed or blanket in the crate to make it comfortable for your German Shepherd. This will encourage your dog to use the crate as a place to rest and relax.
- Use positive reinforcement – Reward your German Shepherd for using the crate. Give your dog treats and praise when they enter the crate voluntarily. This will help create a positive association with the crate.
- Never use the crate as punishment – The crate should be a safe and comfortable space for your German Shepherd. Never use the crate as a punishment, as this can create negative associations and make your dog less likely to use the crate.
- Gradually increase the time your dog spends in the crate – Start by leaving your German Shepherd in the crate for short periods of time while you are home. Gradually increase the amount of time your dog spends in the crate until they are comfortable being in the crate for longer periods of time.
- Do not leave your dog in the crate for extended periods of time – While the crate can be a great tool for house training and preventing destructive behavior, it is important not to leave your dog in the crate for extended periods of time. Dogs need exercise and socialization, so be sure to provide your German Shepherd with plenty of opportunities to play and interact with you.
- Never force your dog into the crate – Your German Shepherd should enter the crate voluntarily. Forcing your dog into the crate can create negative associations and make it more difficult to crate train your dog.
Choosing the right type of crate
When it comes to choosing a crate for your German Shepherd, there are several options available. Here are some of the most common types of crates:
- Wire crates – Wire crates are a popular choice for many dog owners. They are sturdy and provide good ventilation, making them a comfortable option for your German Shepherd.
- Plastic crates – Plastic crates are another popular option for dog owners. They are lightweight and easy to clean, making them a convenient choice for travel.
- Soft-sided crates – Soft-sided crates are lightweight and easy to transport. They are a good option if you plan on taking your German Shepherd on trips or if you need to transport your dog to the vet.
- Heavy-duty crates – Heavy-duty crates are made from sturdy materials and are designed for dogs that are prone to destructive behavior. They are a good option if your German Shepherd has a tendency to chew or scratch.
Conclusion
Choosing the correct size crate for your German Shepherd is essential for their comfort and safety. A properly sized crate can provide your dog with a safe and comfortable space to rest and relax, especially when they are not supervised. When choosing a crate, it is important to choose a size that allows your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. It is also important to choose a crate made from sturdy materials to ensure your dog’s safety.
Crate training is an essential part of owning a German Shepherd. It is a process that requires patience and consistency. When crate training your German Shepherd, it is important to introduce the crate gradually, make the crate comfortable, and use positive reinforcement. Additionally, it is important not to leave your dog in the crate for extended periods of time and to never force your dog into the crate.
Overall, a properly sized crate and proper crate training can provide your German Shepherd with a safe and comfortable space to rest and relax, while also helping to prevent destructive behavior and making house training easier.