What size crate for a Labrador Retriever? 36 or 42 inch
AKC lists Labs at 55–80 lb. That spans MidWest's 36" (41–70 lb) and 42" (71–90 lb) crates; PetMD names Labs under its 42" size.
Short answer: a 42-inch crate for most adult Labs. AKC lists Labrador Retrievers at 55–80 lb. MidWest’s 42” iCrate covers 71–90 lb and its 36” covers 41–70 lb, so a Lab under 70 lb fits a 36” and a heavier Lab needs the 42”. PetMD’s chart lists Labrador Retriever under its 42” x 28” x 30” crate (71–90 lb, dog length up to 36”, height up to 24”).
By your Lab’s weight
| Adult weight | Crate | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 55–70 lb | 36” | MidWest |
| 71–80 lb | 42” | MidWest |
| Any adult Lab | 42” listed | PetMD breed column |
Measure, don’t guess
PetMD says to base crate size on measurements, not weight or breed alone: your dog should stand, turn around, sit with at least 2 inches above the head, and lie on its side with legs stretched out. If any of those is tight, size up.
Puppies
Buy for adult size and use the divider. MidWest’s iCrate includes a divider panel.
Sources: AKC weight chart; MidWest iCrate guide and product page; PetMD crate sizing.
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.