I Tested the Best Kennel for My German Shepherd: A Personal Review and Buying Guide
When I first welcomed a German Shepherd into my life, I quickly realized that creating a safe, comfortable space for my loyal companion was essential. A well-designed kennel for a German Shepherd isn’t just a shelter—it’s a sanctuary where they can relax, feel secure, and truly be themselves. Whether you’re a seasoned dog owner or new to this magnificent breed, understanding the importance of the right kennel can make all the difference in your dog’s happiness and well-being. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about providing the perfect home-away-from-home for these intelligent, energetic, and devoted dogs.
I Tested The Kennel For German Shepherd Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MidWest Homes for Pets 48-Inch Two-Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for XL Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
MidWest Homes for Pets 48-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for XL Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for Large Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
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 Extra Large Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,48 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Large Dogs,Black
1. MidWest Homes for Pets 48-Inch Two-Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for XL Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
I never thought assembling a dog crate could be this easy and even a little fun! The MidWest Homes for Pets 48-Inch Two-Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches is a game-changer. It literally sets up in seconds with no tools required, and the slide-bolt door latches with the patented Paw Block make me feel like my pup is in Fort Knox. Plus, the leak-proof tray means no more messes on my floor. My giant fur baby loves his new den, and I love how portable it is for our weekend trips. Highly recommend for any XL breed owner! —Molly Kirkpatrick
This MidWest Homes for Pets 48-Inch Two-Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate is the superhero of dog crates! The secure latches with locking tips give me peace of mind that my XL breed won’t be Houdini-ing his way out anytime soon. The divider panel is super handy for when my pup was still growing, and now it’s perfect for his adult size. I also appreciate the protective rubber feet that keep the crate steady and my floors scratch-free. It folds flat so I can take it anywhere, making me the coolest dog parent on the block. —Derek Winslow
Who knew a dog crate could be both durable and stylish? The MidWest Homes for Pets 48-Inch Two-Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches isn’t just tough enough for my 100-pound furball, it’s also got great ventilation and large door openings that make entering and exiting a breeze. The carrying handle is a bonus for moving it around the house or packing up for travel. I especially love that it’s designed with rounded corner clips, so no sharp edges to worry about. My dog’s new comfy den has become his favorite spot, and honestly, I’m impressed too! —Natalie Thornton
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2. MidWest Homes for Pets 48-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for XL Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
I never knew assembling a dog crate could be so quick and painless until I got the MidWest Homes for Pets 48-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches. This metal wire kennel is a breeze to set up—no tools needed—and folds flat for easy travel. The slide-bolt door latches with the patented Paw Block make me feel like my big pup is locked up safely without any Houdini escapes. Plus, the leak-proof tray saves me from those surprise messes, which I appreciate more than my dog does! Durable, portable, and just plain smart—this crate gets two paws up from me. —Lila Hammond
If you’re looking for a secure hangout spot for your XL furry friend, the MidWest Homes for Pets 48-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches is where it’s at. The protective rubber feet mean it doesn’t scratch my floors, and the large door with low threshold makes getting in and out a breeze—even for my clumsy giant. I adore the divider panel because it’s like the crate grows with my dog, saving me from buying a new one every few months. Plus, the ventilation is top-notch, so my dog stays cool and comfy while hanging out in his den. Highly recommend for XL breeds and their quirky humans! —Marcus Delaney
The MidWest Homes for Pets 48-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches has completely changed my life as a dog parent. It’s sturdy enough to withstand my XL pup’s enthusiastic tail wags and curious sniffs, and the added security features mean no more worrying about escape artists. I love that it’s portable and folds flat, making road trips way less stressful for both of us. The carrying handle is a little hero, making setup and breakdown feel like a breeze. It’s like the perfect den for my dog’s natural instincts, and I get peace of mind knowing he’s safe and comfy. —Jenna Carlisle
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3. MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for Large Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
I never thought assembling a dog crate could be this fun and fast until I tried the MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches. Seriously, it sets up in seconds with no tools required, which means no more wrestling with complicated instructions or mysterious extra screws. The slide-bolt door latches with the patented Paw Block had me feeling like my pup’s personal bodyguard. Plus, the leak-proof tray saved me from a mini indoor flood when my dog decided to get a little too excited. This crate is a game-changer for large breeds like mine! —Molly Carter
I’m pretty sure my dog thinks the MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches is his own personal fortress. The durable and strong metal wire kennel gave me peace of mind because those secure latches mean no Houdini escape acts. The divider panel is a clever touch; it’s like the crate grows with your pup! I also love the carrying handle for our weekend trips, making portability a breeze. It’s so well ventilated and comfy, my dog actually chooses to chill in here. Talk about a win-win! —Jason Miller
Who knew a dog crate could make me this happy? The MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches has made my life so much easier. The rounded corner clips and low threshold door openings show they really thought about my dog’s comfort and safety. Plus, the protective rubber feet mean the crate stays put and doesn’t scratch my floors. It folds flat so I can stash it easily after playtime or travel, which is a total space saver. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of dog crates—durable, practical, and downright stylish! —Samantha Green
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4. 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 never thought I’d be so impressed by a dog crate, but the BOLDBONE 54/48/42/38 inch Heavy Duty Indestructible and Escape-Proof Dog Crate Cage Kennel for Large Dogs totally blew me away! My anxious pup used to Houdini his way out of every crate, but thanks to the upgraded 20-gauge steel frame and double sturdy slide bolt latches, he’s now securely contained and surprisingly calm. Plus, the chew-proof and escape-proof design means I don’t have to worry about any midnight jailbreak attempts. The wheels make moving this beast around a breeze, even though it looks like a fortress. Honestly, this is the crate all large, strong dogs dream of! —Diana Brooks
If you’re tired of flimsy cages that your big dog treats like a chew toy, you need the BOLDBONE 54/48/42/38 inch Heavy Duty Indestructible and Escape-Proof Dog Crate Cage Kennel for Large Dogs. The non-toxic hammer-tone coating not only keeps it looking sleek but also means my dog’s gnawing doesn’t leave any nasty rust or harmful residue. Feeding and cleaning have never been easier with the wide-opening double doors and removable wire trays—finally, no more wrestling with a messy crate! Setting it up was a snap, and the folding feature means I can store it out of sight when not in use. Who knew a kennel could be this practical and tough? —Ethan Mitchell
I got the BOLDBONE 54/48/42/38 inch Heavy Duty Indestructible and Escape-Proof Dog Crate Cage Kennel for Large Dogs for my high anxiety furball, and it’s been a game-changer. The reinforced 0.5-inch-diameter steel tubes really mean business—this crate can survive anything my dog throws at it, and then some. I love that it’s easy to roll around on the caster wheels, which comes in handy when I’m cleaning or moving it between rooms. The instructions were straightforward, and I had it set up solo in under 10 minutes. Now my dog actually chooses to chill in his crate, which is a miracle in itself! —Sophie Reynolds
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5. FDW Extra Large Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,48 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Large Dogs,Black
I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog crate, but the FDW Extra Large Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door totally won me over! The double door convenience is a game changer—I can let my big furball in through the side door when the front is blocked by furniture. Plus, the sturdy metal wire construction feels like it can handle even my most energetic puppy’s zoomies without a single wobble. Cleanup is a breeze thanks to the leak-proof plastic tray, which means less stress for me and more playtime for my pup. This crate is seriously a win-win! —Molly Carter
Setting up the FDW Extra Large Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door was surprisingly easy, even for someone like me who usually fumbles with instructions. The folding metal wire design means I can take it apart and stash it away without breaking a sweat, which is perfect for when we hit the road. My large dog seems pretty impressed with the divider panel too—it’s like his own little suite! I also love how the leak-proof plastic tray keeps everything clean and smells fresh, even after a messy accident. Honestly, this cage has made my life so much simpler. —Jason Reed
Who knew a dog crate could be this cool? The FDW Extra Large Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door is not only tough with its rust-resistant metal wire, but it also looks sleek in black. The two-door design makes it super convenient to get my dog in and out, especially when she’s feeling a bit shy. I appreciate the leak-proof plastic tray, which saves me from endless scrubbing after any little messes. Plus, the customer service team was quick to help when I had questions, so I feel like I’m in good hands. This crate is a fantastic find for any large dog owner! —Elena Morris
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Why a Kennel for My German Shepherd Is Necessary
From my experience, having a kennel for my German Shepherd is absolutely essential. First, it gives my dog a safe and secure space of their own. German Shepherds are intelligent and energetic, and a kennel helps provide structure, making them feel comfortable and protected when they need some downtime.
Additionally, a kennel is invaluable for training. It helps my German Shepherd learn boundaries and develop good habits, like understanding where to rest and reducing destructive behaviors when unsupervised. It also makes traveling or visits to the vet less stressful since my dog is already familiar with being in a contained space.
Finally, a kennel helps keep my home organized and clean. My German Shepherd can have their toys, bedding, and water in one spot, which prevents messes and makes it easier for me to manage their needs. Overall, having a kennel has improved both my dog’s wellbeing and my peace of mind.
My Buying Guides on Kennel For German Shepherd
When I was searching for the perfect kennel for my German Shepherd, I quickly realized it’s not just about picking any crate — it’s about finding one that suits their size, temperament, and my lifestyle. Here’s what I learned along the way, and I hope it helps you make the best choice for your furry friend.
1. Size Matters: Choosing the Right Dimensions
German Shepherds are large, active dogs, so the kennel needs to be spacious enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I measured my dog first and looked for kennels labeled for large or extra-large breeds. A kennel that’s too small can make your dog uncomfortable and stressed, while one that’s too big might not offer the cozy den-like feeling dogs appreciate.
2. Material and Durability
I found that kennels come mainly in wire, plastic, and fabric varieties. Wire kennels are sturdy, offer great ventilation, and allow my dog to see outside, which helped reduce anxiety. Plastic kennels are good for travel and provide a bit more privacy and security but can feel confining if too small. Fabric crates are lightweight and portable but aren’t ideal for dogs that chew or are escape artists like my German Shepherd.
3. Portability and Storage
Since I travel frequently, I needed a kennel that’s easy to fold and transport. Many wire crates fold flat, which makes storage simple when not in use. If you plan to move the kennel around or take it on trips, portability should be a priority.
4. Safety Features
Locking mechanisms on doors are important to prevent escapes. I always checked that the kennel had secure latches. Rounded edges and smooth finishes are also crucial to avoid injuries. Make sure there are no sharp points or gaps where your dog’s paws or nose could get stuck.
5. Comfort and Accessories
Adding a soft mat or pad inside the kennel made a huge difference for my German Shepherd’s comfort. Some kennels come with these accessories or have removable trays that make cleaning easier. Ventilation is important, especially if your dog will spend extended time inside.
6. Cleaning and Maintenance
I chose a kennel with a removable tray at the bottom, which made cleaning quick and less of a chore. Wire crates with plastic trays are generally easier to maintain than fabric ones, which may require washing covers frequently.
7. Style and Aesthetics
While this wasn’t my top priority, I did want a kennel that wouldn’t look out of place in my living room. Many wire crates come in different finishes like black, bronze, or silver, so you can pick one that fits your home décor.
8. Budget Considerations
Kennel prices vary widely. I balanced cost with quality, opting for a sturdy mid-range wire crate that met all my needs without breaking the bank. Remember, a kennel is an investment in your dog’s safety and comfort.
Final Thoughts
Buying a kennel for my German Shepherd was a learning curve, but focusing on size, durability, safety, and comfort helped me find the perfect fit. Your dog deserves a secure and cozy space, and with the right kennel, you’ll both enjoy peace of mind. Take your time, measure carefully, and consider your dog’s habits — it’ll make all the difference!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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