Verified answer

Extra large will be the correct size when he is full grown. I have used a concrete block to use up some spc in the crate. If the are is too large, he very likely will start having mistakes. The bad thing about a cinder block is if you DO have to clean it out. But it DOES save money.

You should always have a crate that is for his size. Don't put a puppy in a large dog crate. I know it will save you money but trust me you will be glad you didn't do this. A dog should have enough room to turn around in a crate and lie down, that's it. If it's too big, especially a first crate, the dog will leanr that it can poop and pee in one corner of the crate and then hunker down comfortably away from it in the other corner. If you want to properly crate train your dog you'll have to get him at least 2-3 dog crates over time until they're fully grown. Also when you first put your dog in the crate at night it's most likely to howl like there's no tomorrow for a VERY long time. You have to learn to put up with this for a month or even more. Don't give in, your dog WILL get used to it. I've had to train many puppies and the first few months of crate training at night are a nightmare. I suggest putting the crate in your bedroom or where it would normally sleep for a bit so you can reassure it that you're there but after a couple weeks move it to the place the crate will ultimately be forever (unless it is staying in your room forever) and even if he's howling up a storm, use your earplugs and teach him that he has to get used to it. Of course not leaving him too long and taking him out to pee early in the morning and with a treat so he knows that you'll always be back to get him.

I would get an extra large crate, so he can have room, and you probably would not have to buy a new one in the future, although when he out grows puppy hod, he probably won't need a crate. So ys, I would do an XL crate. good luck!! :)