Great Danes, known for their majestic size and gentle demeanor, require special consideration when it comes to choosing a dog crate. Their large frame and unique needs make it essential to find a crate that is not only size-appropriate but also comfortable, safe, and durable. This guide will explore the best dog crates tailored for Great Danes, ensuring your gentle giant has the perfect retreat.
Key Considerations for Great Dane Dog Crates
Size Matters
- Spacious Interior: A Great Dane needs a crate that is at least 48 to 54 inches in length, allowing enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- Height and Width: Given their height, ensure the crate is tall and wide enough for your Dane to move comfortably.
Material and Durability
- Metal Crates: Ideal for strength and durability. Good for home use and long-term durability.
- Heavy-Duty Plastic Crates: Preferred for travel, especially air travel, as they are often airline-approved.
- Avoid Soft-Sided Crates: These are generally not suitable for large breeds like Great Danes due to their lack of durability and security.
Comfort and Safety
- Ventilation: Adequate air circulation is a must for your dog’s comfort.
- Smooth Edges: Ensure there are no sharp edges that could harm your Great Dane.
- Sturdy Latches: Latches should be strong to prevent accidental escapes.
Top Dog Crates for Great Danes
1. Midwest Homes for Pets XXL Giant Dog Crate
- Description: A conventional metal cage with XXL size for Great Dane, featuring two locks and an industry-standard electro-coat finish.
- Pros: Strong construction, includes a divider panel, ideal for growing puppies.
- Cons: Heavy and not easily portable.
- Size: 54″L x 35″W x 45″H.
- Special Features: The wire spacing prevents chewing, and an ABS-composite plastic plan is available for quick cleanup (sold separately).
- Pros: Spacious, secure with two locks, easy assembly, and a one-year limited warranty.
- Price: Approximately $225.26
- Where to buy: Click here
2. ProSelect Empire Dog Cage
- Description: Known for its extreme durability, this crate is designed to contain powerful breeds like a Great Dane.
- Size: The dimensions for the large-sized cage are 42.3″ H x 42.25″ W x 41.3″ L, which is suitable for dogs weighing between 41 to 70 lbs.
- Special Features: This cage is known for its extremely strong build, made with reinforced 0.5-inch diameter steel tubes and 20-gauge steel. It also features a floor grate with a tray, which simplifies cleanup.
- Pros: The cage’s robust construction with heavy-duty welds at all stress points and two sturdy slide latches positioned out of reach of dogs enhance its security and durability. Its design ensures that it’s difficult for a dog to escape or damage the cage.
- Cons: Specific cons were not detailed in the sources available. However, considering its robust build, the cage might be heavier and less portable compared to other options.
- Price: The price for the large cage is approximately $381.72. The medium-sized version is available for around $331.75
- Best Place to buy: Click here
3. Petmate Sky Kennel
- Description: A travel-friendly option, this heavy-duty plastic crate is good for flying.
- Sizes: The Petmate Sky Kennel comes in various sizes:
- Special Features:
- Airline-approved for most airlines
- Made from eco-friendly plastic
- Durable wire door with an easy-squeeze latch system
- 360-degree wire ventilation windows
- Non-corrosive bolts and plastic covered wing-nuts for assembly
- Leak-proof bottom
- Lightweight construction
- 4 Point Locking Door latch for added security (in models 400, 500, and 700)
- No tools needed for assembly
- Optional Petmate travel kit available.
- Pros:
- High-strength and eco-friendly construction
- Easy to clean due to the grated floor with a tray
- Excellent ventilation
- Secure locking system
- Meets most airline requirements for pet travel
- Different sizes available to accommodate various pet sizes.
- Cons:
- Specific cons are not highlighted in the sources, but potential cons could include its size making it less portable for larger models and the need to check with individual airlines for specific travel requirements.
- Price:
- Best place to Buy: Click here
4. New Age Pet ecoFLEX Crate
- Description: A stylish option that blends with home décor.
- Sizes: The New Age Pet ecoFLEX Crate is available in the following sizes:
- Special Features:
- Made of ecoFLEX, a composite blend of recycled polymers and reclaimed wood fiber by-products
- Non-toxic and eco-friendly
- Impervious to moisture and odor
- Easy to clean with a mild detergent
- Stainless-steel spindles and latch, with double latches on large and x-large crates
- Quick and easy assembly, taking less than 20 minutes.
- Pros:
- Eco-friendly and non-toxic materials
- Resistant to moisture and odors
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Strong and secure, especially in larger sizes
- Stylish design that can double as an end table
- Suitable for well-behaved, crate-trained adult and senior dogs.
- Cons:
- Not recommended for use as a training kennel
- May not be suitable for puppies or dogs that are not crate-trained.
- Price:
- Amazon Link: Click here
- The New Age Pet ecoFLEX Crate offers a unique combination of functionality and style, making it a great choice for pet owners who are looking for a crate that blends seamlessly with their home décor while providing a comfortable and secure environment for their pets.
5. IMPACT Collapsible Dog Crate
- Description: Made from 100% premium aluminum, it is resilient and durable. Ideal for containing even the most agile Great Danes. Features a framed door with bars spaced at 1.125 inches and 0.8-inch ventilation holes around the crate.
- Size: 54.6 “L x 35.6 “W x 42.03 “H.
- Special Features: Collapsible for easy storage and transport, set up/fold in 60 seconds, and military-grade handles.
- Pros: Highly durable, excellent ventilation, easy to use, and suitable for growing puppies.
- Price: The 54″ size is priced at $3,999.00 for Gray, and $4,999.00 for Black or White
- Best Place to Buy: Click here
6. Frisco Heavy Duty Double Dog Crate
- Description: Suitable for fully grown Great Danes, available in single or double-door options. The black electro-coat finish adds extra protection.
- Size: 54″L x 36.5″W x 44.75″H.
- Special Features: Drop-pin hinge for security, tool-free assembly, and a removable plastic base.
- Pros: Spacious, optional door styles, easy to assemble, and durable.
- Price: $184
- Best Place to Buy: Click here
Crate Training Tips for Great Danes
- Gradual Introduction: Start by letting your Great Dane explore the crate with the door open. Place treats and toys inside to encourage them.
- Positive Association: Never use the crate as a punishment. It should always be a positive, safe space.
- Consistency is Key: Regular feeding and resting in the crate can help your Great Dane adapt more quickly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right crate for your Great Dane is essential for their well-being and your peace of mind. Whether you opt for a sturdy metal option like the Midwest Giant Dog Crate or a travel-friendly Petmate Sky Kennel, the key is to ensure it meets your dog’s size, comfort, and safety needs. Remember, the crate is not just a training tool; it’s your Great Dane’s personal space, a haven where they should feel secure and comfortable.