Over the years, I have had German shepherds, golden retrievers and black labs as companions and friends, and crate training has always been a struggle with these large breed puppies. Crates are intended to provide a safe retreat for dogs during moments of stress and anxiety, and also as a tool for training.
The best crates for large breed puppies, in my experience, are those that can collapse for travel and provide sufficient room for dogs to stand up and turn around comfortably. However, purchasing too large a crate can remove the comfort factor entirely and become more of a play pen than a crate.
In some cases, it might be necessary to purchase crates for large breed puppies, then purchase new crates when they get older. Some dogs – particularly border collies, golden retrievers, labs and similar breeds – often become attached to their crates, and will want to continue using them even after they have left puppyhood behind.
Richell USA Mahogany Pet Crate
One of the best crates for large breed puppies is this wire and wood model from Richell USA. The sides and tops are mostly vertical metal wires, which means puppy paws can’t get trapped in the slats. The frame and the base are mahogany-stained wood – more attractive and less obtrusive if you’ll be keeping the crate in a common area of your home, such as the kitchen or living room.
This dog crate is seat on four wheels so it can be easily maneuvered throughout your home, and the removable base makes cleaning up messes easy. However, I do recommend lining the bottom with towels, blankets or a kennel bed to ensure your puppy is comfortable. You can purchase this dog crate in three different sizes, the largest of which is appropriate for dogs up to 90 pounds.
Midwest Lifestages Double Door Fold & Carry Crates
The best crates for large breed puppies are those that are versatile. This dog crate from Midwest is a prime example of versatility, as it grows with your puppy and eliminates the need to purchase a new product as your canine friend matures. It comes with a free divider panel that can be adjusted over time.
I also like this dog crate because it offers both front- and side-loading options. If you want to place your crate between a wall and a piece of furniture, for example, your puppy can enter the crate through the front. Conversely, if the front door is blocked the side door is available. I also like the rounded corners, which means other pets and children in the home won’t be in danger of hurting themselves.
Pet Gear Deluxe Steel Crates
If you want to add a little color to your puppy’s life, this Pet Gear Deluxe model definitely belongs at the top of your list. Like most of the other best crates for large breed puppies, this model is collapsible and designed for use both in the home and in cars or SUVs. It also offers four access doors, including one at the top if you need to lift your puppy out.
I don’t particularly like the steel grid sides of this dog crate, but the wire is thick enough and spaced widely enough to present minimal risk. It is also very lightweight and comes in sizes that accommodate up to 90 pounds.
Dog Whisperer by Cesar Millan Rolling Den
Rolling den” sounds far more inviting than “dog crate,” and a product bearing the Cesar Millan name is surely worth investigating. The best crates for large breed puppies are often fully-enclosed because it provides a sense of security – unlike other models, which are see-through wire. This dog crate has a convex base so you won’t have standing urine in the event of an accident, and it has two built-in storage compartments so you can keep puppy-related products close at hand.
Furthermore, you can purchase this dog crate for pets weighing up to 222 pounds, which makes it the most accommodating dog crate on the list. You might also check out the accompanying food bowl and water bottle for your puppy.
Mr. Herzher’s Pet Residence
A friend of mine just purchased this dog crate for her golden retriever, and she can’t say enough good things about it. The wicker surround makes it a fashionable addition to your home – she was even using it as a make-shift end table for her couch for a while – and it is easy to clean. Like the other best crates for large breed puppies, it offers a spacious interior.
The best thing about this dog crate is that the door can either swing outward like most normal crates, or it can swing inward and be fixed to the interior of the crate. This is perfect if you want to give your puppy the option of entering her crate at will, but you don’t want to deal with tripping over the extended door as you make your way through the house.
Choosing a Dog Crate
The best crates for large breed puppies will sufficiently accommodate your dog from puppyhood to full growth. Dogs often get attached to their crates and enjoy using them, as long as the crate is not used as a tool for punishment.
Consider first where you will keep the crate, whether you will need it for travel and how often your pet will use it. This will help you make the best decision for your family.
