🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Dog Crate for German Shepherd Puppies, Reviewed

German Shepherd puppies grow fast, reaching up to 90 lbs. Save money with a crate like the MidWest iCrate featuring a divider panel for proper house training.

PE
ProPawPicks Editorial Team
ProPawPicks Reviewer
Updated

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.

🐾New to the breed? Read our full German Shepherd breed guide for temperament, care, health and lifespan. MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door & Double Door Dog Crate ★ Top Pick: MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door & Double Do… Check Price on Amazon →
48 inches
Recommended crate length for adult German Shepherd
8 to 10 weeks
Age to start crate training
30 to 40 pounds
Average weight of a 4-month-old German Shepherd puppy
3 to 4 hours
Maximum time a puppy should be crated during the day
⚡ Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door & Double Door Dog Crate. This crate offers a durable wire construction with a divider panel to accommodate a growin.
  • Best for Travel: Petmate Sky Kennel Dog Crate. Approved for airline travel, this plastic crate is sturdy and provides good ventilation.
  • Best Lightweight Option: EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate. This soft-sided crate is lightweight and portable, ideal for trips or indoor use.
  • Best Heavy Duty: ProSelect Empire Dog Crate. Made from heavy-gauge wire with a reinforced frame, this crate is built to withstand stron.
  • Best Budget: Frisco 42-Inch Heavy Duty Wire Dog Crate. Affordable yet functional, this crate offers a spacious interior with a divider panel and.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

ProductBest For
MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door & Dou… Best Overall Check price →
Petmate Sky Kennel Dog Crate Best for Travel Check price →
EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate Best Lightweight Option Check price →
ProSelect Empire Dog Crate Best Heavy Duty Check price →
Frisco 42-Inch Heavy Duty Wire Dog Crate Best Budget Check price →

Quick answer

Our top pick for a German Shepherd puppy crate is the MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door & Double Door Dog Crate. It offers excellent ventilation, a sturdy build, and a convenient divider panel to adjust the space as your puppy grows. For those needing a more portable option, the Petmate Sky Kennel is a great alternative for travel.

What to consider for Dog Crate For German Shepherd Puppies

German Shepherd puppies grow rapidly and need a crate that accommodates their adult size without being too large during training. A crate with a divider panel allows you to expand the space gradually. Look for a sturdy metal construction to withstand chewing and scratching. Proper ventilation and a secure door latch are essential for safety. Also consider ease of cleaning, as accidents happen.

What to look for in a cleaning or lawn product (urine, stain, odour or lawn-repair)

When cleaning up after your German Shepherd puppy, choose products with genuine enzymatic action that break down urine proteins and eliminate odour at the source. Ensure the product is pet-safe once dry to avoid harming your puppy. For stain removal, look for proven effectiveness on carpets and upholstery. If using outdoors, select a lawn-safe formulation that won’t burn grass or harm beneficial soil microbes.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated crate dimensions to ensure they suit German Shepherd adult size (up to 48 inches long).
  • Prioritized crates with divider panels for adjustable space during puppy growth.
  • Assessed build quality, including gauge of wire and strength of latches.
  • Checked for safety features like rounded edges and no sharp points.
  • Considered portability and ease of assembly.
  • Read verified buyer reviews for real-world durability feedback.
  • Compared price points to offer options for different budgets.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Avoid ammonia-based cleaners, as the smell mimics urine and encourages re-soiling.
  • Do not use products not labelled pet-safe; they may contain harmful chemicals.
  • Avoid harsh lawn chemicals near areas where your puppy plays before they are fully dry and safe.

For more helpful guides, visit our dog guides, dog care products, and dog health sections.

Why this matters

German Shepherd puppies grow rapidly, reaching up to 90 pounds, so investing in a crate with a divider panel saves money and supports proper house training by preventing them from soiling in an oversized space.

The Options

Types Explained

Wire Crates

Made of metal wire, these crates offer excellent ventilation and visibility. They often fold flat for storage and include a divider panel.

Best for: Home use, training, and growing puppies that need adjustable space.

Plastic Crates

Molded plastic crates provide a den-like environment and are often airline-approved. They are sturdy but heavier.

Best for: Travel and dogs that prefer a more enclosed space.

Soft-Sided Crates

Made of fabric with a metal frame, these crates are lightweight and portable. They are not chew-proof.

Best for: Well-behaved adult dogs and temporary use.

Heavy-Duty Crates

Constructed with reinforced steel and stronger latches, these crates are designed for escape artists or heavy chewers.

Best for: Dogs with anxiety or destructive tendencies.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door & Double Door Dog Crate
Best Overall

MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door & Double Door Dog Crate

View on Amazon

This crate offers a durable wire construction with a divider panel to accommodate a growing German Shepherd puppy. It folds flat for storage and includes a secure slide-bolt latch. The plastic pan is easy to clean. However, some users find the floor pan slightly flimsy under heavy weight.

Check Price on Amazon →
#2
Petmate Sky Kennel Dog Crate
Best for Travel

Petmate Sky Kennel Dog Crate

View on Amazon

Approved for airline travel, this plastic crate is sturdy and provides good ventilation. It's easy to assemble and clean. The downside is that it lacks a divider panel, so you may need to buy a larger size upfront or replace it as your puppy grows.

Check Price on Amazon →
#3
EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate
Best Lightweight Option

EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate

View on Amazon

This soft-sided crate is lightweight and portable, ideal for trips or indoor use. It has three doors for easy access and a steel frame for stability. However, it is not suitable for heavy chewers and may not hold up to determined puppies.

Check Price on Amazon →
#4
ProSelect Empire Dog Crate
Best Heavy Duty

ProSelect Empire Dog Crate

View on Amazon

Made from heavy-gauge wire with a reinforced frame, this crate is built to withstand strong chewers. It includes a divider panel and a pull-out tray for easy cleaning. The main trade-off is its higher weight and price compared to standard crates.

Check Price on Amazon →
#5
Frisco 42-Inch Heavy Duty Wire Dog Crate
Best Budget

Frisco 42-Inch Heavy Duty Wire Dog Crate

View on Amazon

Affordable yet functional, this crate offers a spacious interior with a divider panel and a durable wire construction. It has a single door with a secure latch. Some users report that the tray is thin and may crack over time.

Check Price on Amazon →
Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Size and Adjustability

Choose a crate large enough for your puppy to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably as an adult. A divider panel allows you to reduce the space during training to prevent accidents.

02

Material and Durability

Wire crates offer good ventilation and visibility. Heavy-gauge steel is best for chewers. Plastic crates are lighter but less durable. Avoid soft-sided crates for puppies that may chew.

03

Safety Features

Look for rounded edges, no sharp points, and secure door latches that are escape-proof. Some crates have a double-door design for flexibility.

04

Portability and Storage

If you travel often, consider a foldable wire crate or a plastic airline-approved crate. Soft-sided crates are lightweight but not escape-proof.

05

Ease of Cleaning

A removable plastic tray or pan makes cleaning easier. Some crates have a pull-out tray for quick maintenance. Ensure the tray is durable and leak-proof.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Cleaning the Crate

Remove the tray and wash it with warm soapy water or a pet-safe cleaner. For wire crates, wipe down the bars with a damp cloth. Allow all parts to dry completely before reassembling.

Maintaining the Divider Panel

As your puppy grows, adjust the divider panel to give them more space. Ensure the panel is securely attached to prevent it from shifting.

Inspecting for Damage

Regularly check for bent wires, sharp edges, or broken latches. Replace any damaged parts immediately to prevent injury or escape.

Pro tip

Place a soft blanket or mat in the crate, but avoid loose bedding that could be chewed and ingested. A rubber mat with a raised edge can provide comfort and is easy to clean.

Frequently asked questions

How do enzyme cleaners work for dog urine?
Enzyme cleaners contain specific proteins that break down urine components like uric acid and ammonia into harmless gases and water. This eliminates the stain and odour at a molecular level, rather than just masking it. For best results, apply the cleaner to the affected area, let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then blot or rinse. The enzymes need time to work, so follow the product instructions carefully.
Are enzyme cleaners safe for my German Shepherd puppy?
Most enzyme cleaners are safe once dry, but always check the label. Look for products that are non-toxic and free from harsh chemicals. Keep your puppy away from the area until it is completely dry to prevent ingestion. If your puppy has sensitive skin, consider a cleaner specifically formulated for pets. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian.
How can I remove set-in urine odour from carpets?
Set-in odour requires a deep-cleaning approach. First, blot up any fresh urine. Apply an enzyme cleaner generously, allowing it to penetrate the carpet fibres and padding. Let it sit for several hours or overnight. Use a carpet cleaner or steam cleaner to rinse and extract the solution. Repeat if necessary. For stubborn odours, you may need to replace the carpet padding.
Do lawn repair products fix yellow spots from dog urine?
Yes, many lawn repair products contain grass seed, fertilizer, and soil conditioners to help regrow grass in yellow spots. However, they do not neutralize the urine itself. To prevent spots, dilute urine by watering the area immediately after your puppy pees. For existing spots, rake away dead grass, apply the repair product, and water regularly.
Should I use the same cleaner on carpets and hard floors?
It depends on the cleaner. Many enzyme cleaners are safe for both, but always check the label for surface compatibility. For hard floors, avoid products that leave a sticky residue. Some cleaners are designed specifically for carpets and may not work well on sealed floors. Test in an inconspicuous area first.
How can I safely use cleaning products around my puppy?
Always follow the product instructions. Keep your puppy away from the area during application and until the surface is completely dry. Ensure good ventilation if using sprays. Store all cleaning products out of reach. If your puppy shows signs of irritation after contact, wash the area with mild soap and water and consult your vet.
Can I use enzyme cleaners in a carpet cleaning machine?
Some enzyme cleaners are compatible with carpet cleaning machines, but check the label. Using too much can create excessive foam. Follow the machine's instructions for adding cleaning solutions. After machine cleaning, allow the carpet to dry completely to prevent mould growth.
What should I do if my puppy licks a freshly cleaned area?
If the cleaner is pet-safe and the area is dry, a small amount is unlikely to cause harm. However, if you see any signs of drooling, vomiting, or lethargy, contact your veterinarian immediately. To prevent licking, block access to the area until it is dry. Consider using a bitter spray deterrent if needed.
Are there any safety concerns with crate training a German Shepherd puppy?
Crate training is generally safe, but never use the crate as punishment. Ensure the crate is properly sized and has no sharp edges. Remove collars or tags that could get caught. Provide fresh water if the puppy is crated for more than a few hours. Never leave a puppy crated for extended periods; they need regular bathroom breaks and exercise.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dog Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

Keep Reading

More Dog Care Products guides

Interactive Dog Toys for Boredom: Our ShortlistView picks →Interactive Dog Toys, ComparedView picks →Invisible Dog Fence for Large Dogs: 5 Best Picks (2026)View picks →Invisible Dog Fence for Sensitive Stomachs: 2026 Top Pick ReviewedView picks →Best Invisible Dog Fence for Small Dogs 2026: 5 Top Picks ReviewedView picks →Expert Picks: Best Invisible Dog Fence for the Money 2026View picks →

Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.