36 vs 42 inch dog crate: which one?
The 36" is for 41–70 lb dogs, the 42" for 71–90 lb. Length and height decide close calls.
| 36” crate | 42” crate | |
|---|---|---|
| MidWest weight band | 41–70 lb | 71–90 lb |
| PetMD size (L x W x H) | 36” x 24” x 26” | 42” x 28” x 30” |
| PetMD max dog length | 30” | 36” |
| PetMD max dog height | 20” | 24” |
| PetMD example breeds | English Bulldog, Bull Terrier, Australian Cattle Dog, Pit Bull Terrier | Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Boxer |
Rule: if your dog is near 70 lb, or measures over 30” long or 20” tall, take the 42”. PetMD: when any fit test is tight, go to the next size up.
Sources: MidWest; PetMD.
Terms used here
- Budget, mid, premium: picks grouped by the maker's own list price, lowest to highest. Budget is everyday basics (a crate, collars, a light harness, boots), mid is padded walking and lift-assist harnesses, premium is specialty gear (a life jacket, a car harness, travel beds). No store prices are shown.
- Chest girth: the distance around the widest part of the rib cage, just behind the front legs. Harnesses are sized by it.
- Back length: base of the neck to base of the tail. A crate should be at least 4 in longer.
- Paw width: the widest part of the front paw while standing. Boots are sized by it.
- Weight band: the weight range a crate or bed size is made for on the maker's chart.