Large dog crates exist because there are large dog breeds. We have already discussed dog crates before, so, in case you missed that, you can click here to check out that article.
Alright, so, back to large dog crates.
It is super important to size your dog crate correctly, if not you might run into several problems.
For one, an incorrectly sized dog crate can hardly serve its function.
No dog will stay in an incorrectly sized dog crate. It is uncomfortable, terribly inconvenient, and only brings bad feelings. So, you want to get the right one.
In our article on dog crates, we mentioned quite a lot about dog crate sizing, so, we might not say a lot about that in this guide. Our main focus will be on large dog crates.
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The Need For Special Dog Crates For Dogs
There are different kinds of dogs and there are different kinds of dog crates as well. Certain dog breeds actually require special dog crates.
Getting a small dog crate for your large dog would make him feel terribly claustrophobic, not to mention cramped.
And then getting a large dog crate for your small dog will make training super difficult since they would find it very hard to adapt.
In our article on dog crates, we did mention that giving your dog a crate that is way too big for them will encourage poor habits.
So, here’s how it works, if you get your small dog an extra-large dog crate, she’ll turn one corner into a bedroom and then do her business in another far end of the crate.
This totally defeats your purpose of getting your dog a dog crate. It’s supposed to be for training, remember?
What Makes A Large Dog Crate?
There’s a lot to discuss when it comes to dog crates, but before we get to that, let’s start at the very beginning.
Large dog crates are typically built for large breed dogs.
Usually, large dog breeds are dogs that measure between 42 and 52 inches.
There are so many dog breeds that fall within this category and we will get to them in a bit.
Large dog crates aren’t as popular as small and medium dog crates. However, there are certain brands that are well known for their high quality large dog crates and even extra-large dog crates.
So, before we get to these trusted brands, let’s take a quick look at certain dog breeds that are considered as large dog breeds.
If your pooch belongs to any of these breeds then you can be sure that you’d have to get him a large dog crate. 
What Dogs Are Known As Large Dogs?
Before a dog is classified as large or not, two factors are considered; weight and size.
So, without further ado, here’s a comprehensive list of large dog breeds.
- Belgian Tervuren.
- Airedale Terrier.
- Belgian Sheepdog.
- American Bulldog.
- Belgian Malinois.
- Australian Shepherd.
- Bearded Collie.
- Boxer.
- Chesapeake Bay Retriever.
- Gordon Setter.
- German Shorthaired Pointer.
- Chow Chow.
- Ibizan Hound.
- Clumber Spaniel.
- Vizsla.
- Dalmatian.
- Standard Poodle.
- Irish Setter.
- Rhodesian Ridgeback.
- Slauki.
- Labrador Retriever.
Large dog breeds usually weigh between 71 and 90 pounds, which converts to about 32 to 41 kilograms.
Why It Is Important To Size Correctly When Buying Large Dog Crates?
We’ve already hinted at some of the most important reasons you must correctly size your dog crate before purchasing one.
Well, here are our top four reasons to size your dog crate correctly when buying dog crates.
Sizing Your Dog Crates Correctly Reduces Anxiety For Your Pup
The number one reason you must get your dog a correctly sized large dog crate is actually more for them than for you.
Now, here’s something you need to understand.
It’s not as if you can’t get your large dog to fit into a smaller dog crate, you actually can. But for that to happen, the said dog would have to be forced in.
Now, forcing your dog into a small crate affects him psychologically in a negative way.
When dogs are forced into a crate that’s too small for them, they become scared.
This will naturally make them develop some anxiety about the said dog crate. So, don’t be surprised when they begin to develop a strong hatred for the crate. It’s only expected.
If the feelings of hatred were only directed towards the offending crate, it would have been better.
But well, that’s not the case.
Actually, one incorrectly sized crate can spell doom for your pet forever. He can very easily turn that feeling of anxiety towards any dog crate at all.
And you know what that means? Training your dog would become really difficult. And reversing that psychological disposition, would be even tougher.
You already know what getting your pooch a dog crate that’s too large can cause, so, we’ll skip that.
So, what’s the moral of the story? Never force your dog into any crate. If it isn’t his size, simply go a size up.
Or better still, try to do a correct crate sizing before hitting the “buy button”.
Correctly Sized Large Dog Crates Make Training A Lot Easier
Training your dog to love a crate that he can’t fit into? Can you already see how nearly impossible it is? It just won’t work.
If you want to train him to love a smaller sized dog crate, you’re going to have to get him into the crate. And this ultimately means you’d have to force him and we’ve already explained why that’s a horrible idea.
On the other hand, fitting tiny dogs into large dog crates also makes dog crate training nearly impossible. You can’t crate train a dog if he has enough room to sleep and do his business in another corner with miles of floor space in between.
Getting a perfectly sized dog crate is super crucial to your pooch being perfectly trained. It must not be too big, neither should it be too small.
The idea is to make the dog crate feel as cozy as a den for your pooch. You’ve heard that dogs are den animals, right? 
In The End, Correctly Sized Large Dog Crates Are More Economical
You know how puppies grow, don’t you? One minute they are teeny tiny and the next, boom! They are full adults needing larger crates of their own.
And you know you can’t keep ordering dog crates up like that, right? They don’t exactly come cheap as, you know.
So, as you change the dog supplies you got for them in their puppyhood, it’s also important that you realize that your dog won’t remain little forever. He’s going to grow and need more space.
So, if you’re going to go the more economical route, it makes more sense to get large dog crates. The idea is to get something that you know would fit your puppy when he becomes an adult.
But hey, it brings us back to the initial problem we had with incorrectly sized dog crates. A crate that’s too large for a dog would cause a dog to turn his crate into a bedroom and a toilet.
But hey, let’s all be thankful for dividing panels.
Many large dog crates these days come with dividing panels. And these panels help you to create smaller spaces per time to fit your dog as he grows.
Now, with these dividing panels, you can save more and still accommodate your pup in a crate that’s perfectly sized to fit him.
Air Travel Is Easier With Correctly Sized Large Dog Crates
When a dog crate is not correctly sized, it becomes difficult to travel by flight. Dog owners who travel without a properly sized dog crate might not be allowed to fly.
Many airlines actually keep to a very strict set of flight policies, especially when it comes to how you can travel with your pet.
If you don’t meet all these requirements, they may not allow you board. One of such strict rules is traveling with a correctly sized dog crate.
So, ensure that your dog crate is neither too small nor too large, else you might not be flying anywhere with your pet.
Types Of Large Dog Crates You Can Get For Your Large Dog Breed
Dog crates come in various sizes, shapes, materials, and designs.
And we will now be looking at the various types of large dog crates that exist.
Believe us when we say this; there are different dog crates for different dog parent personalities, as well as dog personalities.
Let’s get to it!
Wire Dog Crates
Large dog crates can be made of wire material. These are the most common types of crates that there are.
Most wire large dog crates are pretty much standard looking, so, most times, they come with a single door.
However, there are some of this such crates that come with multiple doors like the double-door large dog crate from Midwest.
Now why are wire large dog crates so popular?
For one, they are very easy to clean. And because they are very well ventilated, they are perfect for the hotter climates.
Plus, dogs won’t feel so isolated when traveling in wire large dog crates. The gaps between the bars make it possible for your dog to look around and see what’s going on around him.
And then this is good for portability. Most of these dog crates actually come foldable. So, you can assemble and disassemble as situations require.
If you’re taking our advice on buying up for your puppy, wire dog crates are a fantastic idea to go for.
Most wire dog crate manufacturers include dividing panels to their dog crates which make them a perfect idea for young pups.
Soft Sided Large Dog Crates
Soft sided large dog crates are a great idea for dog parents who are not very comfortable with crating their dogs.
Some people feel like crating their dogs is putting him in a cage, and they feel that is pretty cruel.
Because they don’t come with the traditional metal bars, soft sided large dog crates feel a little less cratey. So, anxious dog owners can relax a bit.
Also, they are pretty lightweight which makes them very portable as well.
Soft sided large dog crates are the most comfortable kind of crates there are.
As the name suggests, the insides are pretty soft, and so, they make pretty nice-looking and nice-feeling crates.
You’d also find soft sided large dog crates very easy to assemble and reassemble.
But hey, there’s a small caveat to the whole soft sided large dog crate shebang…
You need to be super careful.
Only go for soft sided large dog crates if your dog is a gentle dog.
Large dog breeds are generally rambunctious but there are few gentle ones.
If you get soft sided large dog crates for very active large dog breeds, you’d be in trouble, because they’d tear it apart in no time.
You also don’t want to go for soft sided large dog crates if your dog is big on chewing.
Dogs that chew a lot will find soft sided dog crates a perfect chew toy to exercise their chewing prowess.
So, buy soft sided large dog crates with caution.
Plastic Large Dog Crates 
Plastic large dog crates are very lightweight and that is the reason many dog owners opt for them.
If your dog is more of a recluse, maybe a senior without the thirst for so much activity, you should go for a plastic large dog crate.
In the cold, plastic large dog crate provide a high level of insulation. They make very cozy living and sleeping units for your dog.
And the best part is that you can take them along with you as you travel.
Houdini dogs would meet their perfect match in this type of large crates. In here, escaping is not even an option.
Although not exactly the most beautiful large crates you’d find, plastic dog crates are super easy to clean. Most of them come with removable parts to make cleaning very convenient.
Plus, it locks very securely to keep your pet safe as he remains in his crate.
Fashion Large Dog Crates
If plastic or wire large dog crates seem a bit off for you and your home décor, there are many other more fashionable options you could go for.
These days, many large dog crates come in rattan or wood. When selected carefully, these crates can be made to fit perfectly into your living space and even add an interesting touch to your living space.
Some of them even double as shelves or tables. If you ask us, this is a beautiful win win situation for everybody.
Your dog is properly trained. Your home décor is still preserved. Everyone wins!
Advantages of Large Dog Crates
- Large dog crates create a comfy, personal place of refuge for your dog.
- Also, large crates help you to limit your dog’s movements which could lead to grave complications in the case of a medical emergency.
- A dog feels more secure when retreating in his dog crate.
- Large dog crates afford you the opportunity to go about other daily activities without having to constantly worry about what your large canine is bounding up to.
- Again, large dog crates come in different kinds of materials which makes them fit for different purposes and personalities.
- If you wish to travel with your big canine, you’re going to need large dog crates to make that happen.
Disadvantages Of Large Dog Crates
- Large dog crates are generally bulky as their names suggest.
- Also, large crates tend to take up a lot of space since they need a large footprint to contain large breed dogs.
- Lastly, large dog crates are more expensive than smaller sized crates.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Large Dog Crates
Size
We have already happed so much on the importance of getting your large dog breed the right size of a dog crate.
Your pooch should be able to stand comfortably, roll around, stretch his legs and lie comfortably in his crate.
But then again, it shouldn’t be too large either and we’ve already explained why that is.
To get your dog a perfectly sized crate, it is always advised that you take measurements. And here’s how to take his measurements.
First, get your dog to sit and then measure him from the tip of his ears (if he has erect ears) or from his head down to the floor. Now, add the value of two to four inches to whatever you get from that measurement.
Next, get your dog to stand upright and measure from the tip of his nose to the base of his tail. You don’t need to measure to the tip. Keep it at the base. As you did the last time, add two to four inches to that value.
And voila! Your dog is perfectly measured for his new large dog crate,
The extra inches you add are to give your dog some wiggle room in his crate.
Ideally though, a dog crate should measure a bit more than 40 inches.
Convenience
Many large dog crates, especially the wire ones, come foldable which makes them very easy to move around and to store.
Also, if you intend to move the dog crate around a lot, we doubt that you need to be told that you need to get a portable dog crate.
In essence, get a dog crate that’s convenient for you to use.
Safety
Your dog crate must be safe and secure for your pooch. Get something that locks properly and securely.
For metal crates, they must not come with any sharp angles sticking out anywhere.
And your dog crate must be safe even for Houdini dogs that tend to escape at the slightest opportunity.
Best Brands For Large Dog Crates
There are quite a number of brands that specialize in the manufacturing of large crates. However, only a select few actually do a bang up job enough to be featured on this article.
So, first up, we present…
Midwest
Of course, Midwest is an obvious brand choice when talking about large dog crates.
This classic brand has been around for so many years with many years of experience under its belt.
It’s no wonder that the Midwest brand is featured on so many reviews.
They have proven their credibility again and again and we are confident in their ability to produce large dog crates that are of high quality for your darling pooch.
Well, it’s not like Midwest does not carry dog crates in sizes small enough for medium sized and small sized dogs. They do.
But since the focus of this article is large dog crates, we will try to keep the focus on Midwest large dog crates.
They are usually wire dog crates; super lightweight, and they also come foldable.
This means that Midwest large dog crates, even though they have a large capacity, are still very portable.
So, they are great for transporting dogs around, and they also store very easily without necessarily taking up so much space.
A lot of Midwest large dog crates also come with dividing panels.
So, here’s a fantastic place to shop for a dog crate for a puppy… especially puppies of large dog breeds.
Precision
Aside Midwest, another great large dog crate brand we would readily recommend to you is the Precision brand.
Just like Midwest, Precision is a very experienced brand with numerous years of business to its credit.
The brand also manufactures wire dog crates as its area of specialization. These crates are actually pretty solid and high quality as well.
Precision carries a wide range of dog crates actually from large ones to medium ones to small ones. But of course, we are focusing on the large dog crates today.
Precision dog crates are pretty tough and quite durable, too.
If you have a really aggressive breed on your hands, you’ll be happy to know that all large crates from Precision can withstand all your dog’s antics.
If you can’t afford the Midwest brand or you don’t seem to like their crates for whatever idiosyncratic reason, Precision makes a fine alternative.
And they don’t just provide wire dog crates, they also provide soft-sided dog crates, as well as other Precision dog supplies.
Conclusion
We’re pretty sure you’ve learned so much about large dog crates. It’s super important that we get our pooches the right sized crates for them, guys. If we don’t, it could lead to dire consequences.
Large dog crates must neither be too big nor too small for them to be perfectly suitable for large breeds.
In the end, measuring your dog is still the best way to determine the right size of dog crate that is best for your large dog breed.
PS: There are so many high quality large dog crate brands out there, but we’ve listed the biggest two in the industry.
Feel free to make your pick of large crates from either of them and you’ll be a happy camper!