crate sizing for long term use

[jakeandrenee]

I am guessing that Jake will be 90/95 pounds, so what is my best bet?

[sagelfn]

I started out with the 42 but recently upgraded to the 48. Sage is 80-85lbs and very long and tall 28" I think.

If you're going to have a GSD on the larger size I would get a 48. I use the 42 for travel..don't think the 48 is a portable size

[jakeandrenee]

So, the 48 makes a big difference? Seems like it wouldn't. I don't want to get the 55 unless I really have to (it just seems WAY too big), however I don't want to end up buying three crates.

He is a puppy and will be sleeping and spending 4/6hours a day in it so I want to be sure I make the right investment this time...I goofed getting the 42" obviously.

[Samba]

My largest is 85 lbs. The Shepherds are in 24 x 48 crates.

This leaves little room for furniture.

[onyx'girl]

Karlo is long in body and 27" tall so the 42" would be hard if he was in it for over 6 hours straight.
I use a 42" wire for the truck/training in the summer and he is ok in it.
If you have room for a 48" I would do it.
I bought the the XL(700) vari-kennel as the large(500) was a bit cramped for him.
The 42" you have will be a fine travel crate, but I prefer plastic, it just seems safer. I only use the wire when it is sooo hot out, need more ventilation than the plastic provides even with the crate fan.

[jakeandrenee]

Jane,
I have the room for even bigger if need be but like I said I would prefer not to have the 55 unless I really need it.
He sleeps in his crate at night(7/8 hours) and is in it during the day never more then 4/6 hours and sometimes only one or two because I am home with him but I do want him to be comfortable....

Is it better to crate in the car? I have a vehicle barrier up in my SUV for car rides but I have never had to "crate" him like when you go to the club to train.

[Zoeys mom]

We have the 48 inch midwest crate for Zoe and she will never need a bigger crate for the amount of time she's in it

[onyx'girl]

If his drives kick in, he may destroy the interior of the vehicle when at training, I'd have a crate for SchH training.

I really don't think you need a 55. Dogs usually curl up and sleep most of the day anyway.
A 42 is a bit on the short side, but the 48 has plenty enough headroom and legroom

[jakeandrenee]

AH....didn't think of that. Of course he could destroy interior!

So it looks like a 48" is the most recommended.

On a side note I found someone local that had a small SchH club here and was very successful for many years, she's since retired but is happy to evaluate Jake for me next week!

[elisabeth_00117]

Just a side note:

A club member has a 55lbs male boxer who is the sweetest dog, never destroyed a thing in his 4 years on this earth... until he was locked in the car during protection.... ate through the back seat, ate the steering wheel and half of the door frame.... Just saying, crates for cars are important... and a lot less exspensive.