Owning a large breed dog comes with its own set of challenges, and finding the perfect crate is one of them. Whether you’re working with a gentle giant like a Great Dane or a powerful breed like a Rottweiler, the right crate needs to be durable, spacious, and secure.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about choosing the perfect crate for your large breed dog, including size considerations, material choices, and safety features. Plus, we’ll highlight the best crate options that ensure both comfort and security for your big buddy.
Why a Proper Crate is Essential for Large Dogs
Large breed dogs need more than just extra space. They require robust construction, secure locks, and comfortable interiors. A poorly designed crate can lead to breakouts, injuries, or even anxiety for your pet.
Benefits of the Right Crate:
- Safety and Security: Prevents accidents and keeps your dog safely contained.
- Comfort: Provides a cozy space for relaxation and sleep.
- Training Aid: Helps with housebreaking and reducing destructive behavior.
- Travel Safety: Keeps your dog secure during road trips or flights.
- Stress Reduction: Gives your dog a personal, den-like space to feel calm.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Crate for Large Dogs
1. Crate Size Matters
A common mistake is choosing a crate that’s too small or overly spacious. Measure your dog properly to find the right fit.
How to Measure Your Dog:
- Length: Measure from the nose to the base of the tail and add 4 inches.
- Height: Measure from the floor to the tallest point (head or ears) and add 4 inches.
- Width: Consider your dog’s width, especially for bulky breeds.
General Size Guidelines:
- Large Breeds (50-90 lbs): 42 inches
- Giant Breeds (90+ lbs): 48-54 inches
- Bulky Breeds (like Mastiffs): Extra-wide crates for comfort
2. Material Selection: Durability is Key
Large dogs have the strength to break through flimsy materials, so choosing the right construction is crucial.
Wire Crates:
- Pros: Great ventilation and visibility
- Cons: Prone to bending and breakouts, especially with strong or anxious dogs
- Best For: Calm, non-destructive large breeds
Plastic Crates:
- Pros: Enclosed for a den-like feel, good for travel
- Cons: Limited airflow, prone to cracking with forceful dogs
- Best For: Travel and moderately calm dogs
Aluminum Crates:
- Pros: Indestructible, chew-proof, and escape-proof
- Cons: Higher cost, heavier than plastic
- Best For: Strong, high-energy breeds or escape artists
Steel or Reinforced Crates:
- Pros: Extremely durable, heavy-duty build
- Cons: Heavy and less portable
- Best For: Aggressive or anxious large breeds
3. Safety and Security Features
The primary function of a crate is to keep your dog safe. Choose crates with:
- Heavy-Duty Locks: Tamper-proof latches that can’t be manipulated by clever paws.
- Reinforced Corners: To withstand pushing and chewing.
- Crash-Tested Models: Essential for road travel.
- Rounded Edges: Prevents injuries from sharp corners or protruding wires.
Recommended Option:
Impact Dog Crates feature patented escape-proof latches and aircraft-grade aluminum construction, making them the gold standard for safety and durability.
4. Comfort and Ventilation
Your large dog needs adequate airflow and a comfortable interior.
Ventilation Tips:
- Choose crates with perforated panels or barred sides for maximum airflow.
- Avoid crates with only one ventilated side, as they can cause overheating.
Comfort Tips:
- Add a padded mat or orthopedic bed to reduce joint pressure.
- Include a soft blanket or cushion to make the space inviting.
5. Portability and Convenience
While large crates can be cumbersome, there are features that make them easier to handle:
- Collapsible Models: Foldable designs for easy storage and transport.
- Built-In Handles or Wheels: Makes moving the crate less of a hassle.
- Removable Floor Trays: Simplifies cleaning after accidents or spills.
Recommended Option:
The Impact Collapsible Dog Crate is both robust and portable, making it ideal for travel without sacrificing durability.
Top 5 Best Dog Crates for Large Breeds
1. Impact High Anxiety Dog Crate
Best for: Escape-Prone and Powerful Dogs
- Material: Aircraft-Grade Aluminum
- Size Options: Medium to XXL
- Features:
- Escape-proof latches and reinforced doors
- Ample ventilation for airflow
- Noise-dampening design to reduce stress
- Chew-proof and rust-resistant
- Escape-proof latches and reinforced doors
Why It’s the Best:
This crate is specifically designed to handle the strength and determination of large, anxious dogs. The impact-resistant design ensures your dog stays safe, while the ventilation keeps them comfortable.
2. Gunner G1 Kennel
Best for: Road Trips and Travel Safety
- Material: Double-Walled Rotomolded Plastic
- Features:
- Crash-tested and certified for car safety
- Secure, heavy-duty locking system
- Non-slip feet and drainage plug for easy cleaning
- Great insulation to maintain a comfortable temperature
- Crash-tested and certified for car safety
Why It’s Great:
If you’re on the move, the Gunner G1 Kennel is the safest choice for large breeds. Its robust construction and crash-tested design make it ideal for road trips.
3. Zinger Winger Aluminum Dog Crate
Best for: Heavy Chewers and Escape Artists
- Material: Aircraft-Grade Aluminum
- Features:
- Reinforced corners and escape-proof locks
- Rust-resistant and easy to clean
- Superior ventilation with barred sides
- Reinforced corners and escape-proof locks
Why It’s Reliable:
This crate offers excellent durability and escape prevention, perfect for dogs that tend to chew or push their way out.
4. MidWest Life Stages Wire Crate
Best for: Calm and Trained Large Dogs
- Material: Metal Wire
- Features:
- Divider panel for growing puppies
- Double door design for easy access
- Foldable for portability
- Removable plastic tray for cleaning
- Divider panel for growing puppies
Why It Works:
Affordable and practical, this wire crate is suitable for calm dogs that don’t test boundaries. The divider panel makes it versatile as your dog grows.
5. ProSelect Empire Dog Cage
Best for: Aggressive and Powerful Dogs
- Material: Reinforced Steel
- Features:
- Strong steel tubing and welds for strength
- Locking casters for mobility
- Elevated grate floor with a removable tray
- Heavy-duty slide-bolt latches
- Strong steel tubing and welds for strength
Why It’s Tough:
This crate is nearly indestructible and ideal for dogs with extreme chewing habits or separation anxiety.
Final Thoughts: Invest in Safety and Comfort
Choosing the right crate for your large breed dog is crucial for their safety, comfort, and your peace of mind. While wire and plastic crates may work for smaller or calmer dogs, large and powerful breeds need something more robust.
For the ultimate in durability and escape resistance, Impact Dog Crates are the clear winner. Built from aircraft-grade aluminum and designed to withstand heavy use, they offer the perfect blend of security, comfort, and ventilation.Invest in a crate that will keep your large dog safe, comfortable, and secure for years to come. Choose an Impact Dog Crate and experience the difference that quality and craftsmanship make!
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