If things go well we will be getting a GSD puppy sometime in March. We have crates for our current and late GSDs, but they were already big when I adopted them (maybe I still have that divider somewhere...). It seems like Xpens are highly recommended for the puppy years.

Does anyone have a brand and size that they recommend?

Also, I've read a few reviews on Amazon where people say that their pup jumped, slid, whatever and got a toe or nail caught between the panels. Has anyone had that happen? Any suggestions on preventing it?

Thanks

Just wanted to clarify that I am looking for the Xpen in addition to the crate, not in lieu of.

Didn't there used to be an edit post button?

Thx- Carolyn

There is an edit button, but only for some time after having posted. I don't know exactly for how long.

Bump

Mostly interested in the toe catching issue- has anyone experienced this? Is it a real concern or a random occurance?

Thanks for bumping, Carolyn, I was going to comment earlier, but forgot......Squirrel!
I would take reviews on Amazon from the standpoint that they are NOT dog trainers and may not have been using them correctly. I think the ex-pens are meant to be used to keep your pup nearby, but out of trouble. That way, they can experience life out of their crate, but not completely take over your corner of the world! It helps build your bond because you are not always correcting the puppy for getting into things. I also don't think you are supposed to just leave them for extended periods unattended, that is how toes have probably gotten caught....trying to get out and "find Momma"! Now any pup can get excited or worried and get into trouble fast, which is why I wouldn't leave a pup that was not accustomed to the ex-pen alone for any length of time.
I have my own horror stories of toes and legs getting hung in kennels...and these were dogs that were very happy in their kennel "homes"! We bought new kennels and I guess they had to try them out...needless to say, I recommend a cover of some sort. Or vertical bars like I have now!
I didn't mean to ramble, but there it is! I hope you enjoy your new pup!

In case anyone else is looking for this info, yes, indeed they can get their toes caught.

Greta was unhappy that Dixon and I were leaving for a walk (without her) and she's now tall enough to get her paws to the top of the panels; a toe slipped into the gap where the two ends of the panel run meet and are clipped together. Fortunately, aside from a few seconds of shrieking she was fine.

We have worked with her on 'no jumping' against the sides since the beginning and she does really well with a few exceptions. My husband added some strategic zip ties at the problem spot; hopefully this will keep her toe out of it in the future.