Best 42 Inch Dog Crates: Top 9 Picks (October 2026)

The best 42-inch dog crates include the MidWest 42-inch double door iCrate for flexible room placement, the MidWest 42-inch single door iCrate for a simple front entrance, and the Amazon Basics 42-inch double door wire crate for side-door access.

On this page (11 sections)

1. Best 42 Inch Dog Crates
2. How we chose these 42 inch dog crates
3. Compare the best 42 inch dog crates
4. Which 42 inch dog crate suits your home?
5. How should you choose a 42 inch dog crate?
6. Should you choose one door or two?
7. When is a divider useful?
8. How do tray and storage features affect daily use?
9. How do you set up and care for a wire crate?
10. What mistakes can lead to the wrong crate?
11. Which 42 inch dog crate should you choose?

Best 42 Inch Dog Crates

The MidWest 42-inch double door iCrate is a strong choice if you want two entrances, a divider and a leak-proof tray. This 42 inch dog crate roundup compares nine wire models by fit guidance, door layout, included parts and storage features.

A 42-inch label doesn't mean every crate has the same interior space or suits every dog of the same breed. Measure your dog, check each model's fit guidance, then consider where the crate will sit and how you'll clean it.

Start with how to measure a dog for a crate. If your dog is between crate sizes, our 36-inch vs 42-inch dog crate comparison can help you weigh the tradeoffs.

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for flexible room placement

   MidWest 42-inch double door iCrate

   9.2/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for a simple front entrance

   MidWest 42-inch single door iCrate

   9.0/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for side-door access

   Amazon Basics 42-inch double door wire crate

   8.8/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   Amazon Basics 42-inch single door wire crate

   Best for a clear front entry
   Check it
5. 5

   New World by MidWest 42-inch double door crate

   Best for two doors without a divider
   Check it
6. 6

   Precision Pet 42-inch two-door wire crate

   Best for multi-point door locks
   Check it
7. 7

   New World by MidWest 42-inch single door crate

   Best for a single-door New World
   Check it
8. 8

   MidWest iCrate starter kit, 42-inch

   Best for a ready-made starter setup
   Check it
9. 9

   FDW 42-inch folding wire crate

   Best for frequent flat storage
   Check it

How we chose these 42 inch dog crates

The right 42 inch dog crate is the one that fits your dog and suits the space where you'll use it. We compared each model's size guidance, door count, divider, tray and other practical features.

Two doors can simplify placement when one side of the crate sits near a wall. A divider can reduce the interior area for a growing dog, while a removable tray can make cleaning easier.

The scores reflect how each model's features match common needs in this size range. The product sections explain the specific reasons to choose each one and the fit limits to check.

Compare the best 42 inch dog crates

The MidWest double-door iCrate combines front and side access with an included divider and leak-proof tray. Use the table to compare door layout, divider availability and tray type at a glance.

Which 42 inch dog crate suits your home?

The MidWest double-door iCrate is the best all-around starting point here because it includes two doors and a divider. The other picks suit buyers who want a single entrance, a different tray or lock setup, or a bundle of crate accessories.

MidWest 42-inch double door iCrate: Best for flexible room placement

1

MidWest 42-inch double door iCrate: Best for flexible room placement

9.2/10Our score

• Two doors
• Divider panel
• Leak-proof tray
• Rubber feet

Two doors give you more placement options, while the divider panel can adjust the space as a dog grows.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Two entry doors
• Divider panel included
• Rubber feet and leak-proof tray

Cons

• Dogs near 90 lb may need a 48-inch crate

The MidWest 42-inch double door iCrate suits homes where the crate may need to face a wall or fit into a corner. Front and side entrances give you options for positioning it, and the included divider lets you adjust the usable interior as a dog grows.

It comes with a leak-proof tray, rubber feet and a carry handle. MidWest recommends it for dogs weighing 71 to 90 lb, while advising owners of dogs near 90 lb to consider its 48-inch model.

The slide-bolt latches include Paw Block features, and the metal wire has a black e-coat finish. It folds flat without tools for storage.

Choose it if you want two entry points and a divider together. Skip it if the dog is near the top of the recommended range and needs more room; compare larger crates before you buy.

MidWest 42-inch single door iCrate: Best for a simple front entrance

2

MidWest 42-inch single door iCrate: Best for a simple front entrance

9.0/10Our score

• One door
• Divider panel
• Leak-proof tray
• Rubber feet

This single-door iCrate keeps the divider, tray and rubber feet of the double-door model in a simpler layout.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Divider panel included
• Leak-proof tray
• Folds flat without tools

Cons

• One entry door gives fewer placement options

This single-door iCrate makes sense when you know where the crate will sit and can keep the front entrance clear. It has the same basic combination of an included divider, leak-proof tray, rubber feet and carry handle as the double-door model.

MidWest recommends this size for dogs weighing 71 to 90 lb and suggests considering a 48-inch crate near 90 lb. Its metal wire has a black e-coat finish, and the crate folds flat without tools.

Use the divider to set an appropriate space for a growing dog. Plan the final position before buying so the front door has room to open and your dog has a clear path in and out.

Choose this version for a fixed front-facing setup. Skip it if access from the side would make the crate easier to place; the double-door iCrate adds that option.

Amazon Basics 42-inch double door wire crate: Best for side-door access

3

Amazon Basics 42-inch double door wire crate: Best for side-door access

8.8/10Our score

• Two doors
• Divider panel
• Removable plastic tray
• Folds flat

Front and side doors help with room placement, and the divider panel adjusts the interior space.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Two doors
• Divider panel included
• Folds flat for storage

Cons

• For pets under 38 x 26 in (L x H)

This Amazon Basics crate is a practical fit when you want both front and side access and need to store it flat between uses. The divider adjusts the interior, and the top handle helps when carrying it.

The outside size is 42 x 28 x 30 in. Amazon Basics gives a pet-size limit of under 38 x 26 in (length x height), so compare your dog's measurements with that guidance before choosing this model.

Its removable plastic tray lifts out for cleaning. A metal hook helps hold the tray in place; lock that hook after installation and keep it locked during daily use.

Choose it if your dog fits the stated limit and two door positions help in your room. Skip it if your dog's measurements exceed that limit or the tray hook is an extra daily step you'd rather avoid.

Amazon Basics 42-inch single door wire crate: Best for a clear front entry

4

Amazon Basics 42-inch single door wire crate: Best for a clear front entry

8.6/10Our score

• One door
• Divider panel
• Removable plastic tray
• Folds flat

The single-door version has a divider panel and removable tray, with a fold-flat design for storage.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Divider panel included
• Removable tray
• Folds flat for transport

Cons

• For pets under 38 x 26 in (L x H)

The single-door Amazon Basics model suits a setup where the crate faces an open area. It has a divider, removable plastic tray and top handle, and folds flat for transport or compact storage.

Its outside measurements are 42 x 28 x 30 in, and the stated pet-size limit is under 38 x 26 in (length x height). Check your dog's standing size against that guidance, then leave enough clearance for the door and entry path.

The divider lets you adjust interior space, which can be useful while a dog grows. The removable tray gives you access for cleaning without taking apart the crate.

Choose it when one front entrance is all you need and your dog falls within the size guidance. Skip it if a side entrance would solve a real placement problem.

New World 42-inch double door crate: Best for two doors without a divider

5

New World by MidWest 42-inch double door crate: Best for two doors without a divider

8.5/10Our score

• Two doors
• Divider sold separately
• Leak-proof tray
• Rubber feet

This double-door crate offers flexible placement and a leak-proof tray; the divider panel is sold separately.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Two entry doors
• Leak-proof tray
• Folds flat without tools

Cons

• Divider panel not included

The New World double-door crate works for buyers who want front and side access but don't need a divider included. It comes with a leak-proof tray, rubber feet and carry handle.

The divider panel is sold separately, so factor that into the setup if you're buying for a puppy. MidWest recommends this size for dogs weighing 71 to 90 lb and advises considering a 48-inch model for dogs near 90 lb.

The wire has a black e-coat finish, and the crate folds flat without tools. Its slide-bolt latches include Paw Block features.

Choose it if the two-door layout fits your room and you can use the crate at full size. Skip it if you need a divider right away and prefer it included; the iCrate has one in the box.

Precision Pet 42-inch two-door wire crate: Best for multi-point door locks

6

Precision Pet 42-inch two-door wire crate: Best for multi-point door locks

8.4/10Our score

• Two doors
• Five-point locking system
• Divider panel
• Removable pan

A five-point locking system, two doors and a divider panel provide adjustable access and space.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Five-point locking system
• Divider panel included
• Non-skid rubber feet

Cons

• Standard-duty wire construction

The Precision Pet crate stands out for its five-point locking system and two doors. It also includes a divider, removable shatter-resistant pan and non-skid rubber feet.

It measures 42 x 28 x 30 in and has standard-duty wire construction. Its rust-resistant finish is suitable for occasional outdoor use, and Precision Pet advises sizing up if you’re unsure about the fit.

A multi-point lock may suit buyers who want that specific door design, but it doesn't replace checking the fit and how the crate will be used. Confirm both doors can open freely at your planned spot.

Choose it if you want two entrances, a divider and a five-point locking system in one crate. Skip it if you need a heavier-duty construction than the standard-duty wire described for this model.

New World 42-inch single door crate: Best for a single-door New World

7

New World by MidWest 42-inch single door crate: Best for a single-door New World

8.3/10Our score

• One door
• Divider sold separately
• Leak-proof tray
• Rubber feet

A single front door keeps access simple, with a leak-proof tray and rubber feet included.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Leak-proof tray
• Rubber feet
• Folds flat without tools

Cons

• Divider panel sold separately

This New World model keeps access simple with one front door. It includes a leak-proof tray, rubber feet and carry handle, while the divider is sold separately.

MidWest recommends the size for dogs weighing 71 to 90 lb and advises considering a 48-inch crate near the upper end of that range. The metal wire has a black e-coat finish, and the crate folds flat without tools.

The open-wire design provides visibility and ventilation. Give the front door enough room to open and compare the crate's usable space with your dog's measurements.

Choose it if one door meets your needs and you don't need a divider included. Skip it if a side entrance or puppy divider is important; another pick may be a better fit.

MidWest iCrate starter kit: Best for a ready-made starter setup

8

MidWest iCrate starter kit, 42-inch: Best for a ready-made starter setup

8.3/10Our score

• Double-door iCrate
• Fleece bed
• Privacy cover
• Two stainless steel bowls

This bundle pairs a double-door iCrate with a fleece bed, privacy cover and two crate-mounted bowls.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Bed and cover included
• Two removable bowls
• Divider panel in crate

Cons

• More pieces to fit and maintain than a crate alone

The starter kit groups a 42-inch double-door iCrate with a fleece bed, polyester privacy cover and two stainless steel bowls. The crate also includes a divider, plastic pan, rubber feet and carry handle.

The bowls attach to the crate with MidWest's Snap'y Fit system and can be removed for refills and cleaning. Having the bed and cover in the bundle can simplify getting started, but check the interior space with the bed in place.

Choose the kit if you'll use the included bedding and bowls. Skip it if you already have those items, prefer to choose accessories separately or want to avoid extra pieces to clean and store.

FDW 42-inch folding wire crate: Best for frequent flat storage

9

FDW 42-inch folding wire crate: Best for frequent flat storage

8.0/10Our score

• Two doors
• Divider panel
• Leak-proof ABS composite tray
• Folds under 3 in thick

The double-door crate folds to less than 3 inches thick and includes a divider panel and leak-proof tray.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Folds under 3 in thick
• Two doors and dual latches
• Tray has a raised lip

Cons

• Confirm the crate's interior fit for your dog

The FDW crate suits buyers who need a wire crate that folds thin for storage. It folds to less than 3 in thick and has front and side doors, a divider, removable handle and leak-proof ABS composite tray.

Its outside dimensions are 42 x 26 x 28 in, and it weighs 21 lb. The tray has a raised lip, and each door has two latches.

Because its outside dimensions differ from several other models here, don't assume the 42-inch label means the interior will suit the same dog. Check the usable fit against your dog's measurements before buying.

Choose it if thin fold-flat storage matters and the fit works. Skip it if you're choosing by length alone or need a model with a stated dog-size range.

How should you choose a 42 inch dog crate?

A 42 inch dog crate should give your dog room to stand, turn around and lie down. Measure your dog first, then compare those measurements with the model's usable interior and stated fit guidance.

Measure from the nose to the base of the tail for length, and from the floor to the top of the head for height. The guide to measuring a dog for a crate explains the process and how to use your measurements.

Outside dimensions can differ from the space inside, so a crate's length alone isn't enough to confirm a fit. When a brand gives a weight range or pet-size limit, use it as an additional check rather than a substitute for measuring.

Think about the room as well as the dog. Measure the floor space, check the door swing and leave a clear path for your dog to enter and exit.

Is a 42 inch crate right for a Labrador?

A 42-inch crate can fit some Labradors, but individual height and length matter more than breed alone. Compare your dog's measurements with the crate's usable space and fit guidance.

Our Labrador crate size guide gives breed-specific measuring advice. If your dog is near the upper edge of a model's recommended range, check larger sizes before deciding.

Should you choose one door or two?

Choose two doors if a front and side entrance will help you position the crate. A single door is a good fit when the front can face an open area and you don't need side access.

The MidWest iCrate, Amazon Basics and FDW picks include front and side doors. The Precision Pet model has two doors, while the single-door options keep the entry layout simple.

Before setting the crate down, picture the front and side with each door fully open. This small check can prevent a door from being blocked by a wall, sofa or table.

When is a divider useful?

A divider is useful when you need to adjust the open space for a growing puppy. Set it to leave enough room to stand, turn around and lie down, then adjust it as your dog grows.

The MidWest iCrate, Amazon Basics, Precision Pet and FDW models include a divider. The New World models here sell theirs separately, so include that in your choice if you need to change the interior size.

For a puppy, read our guide to choosing a crate size for a puppy. Buy based on your dog's current fit and training needs, not just the adult size you expect.

How do tray and storage features affect daily use?

A removable tray can make cleanup easier, while fold-flat construction helps when you store the crate between uses. All the picks here include a tray, but their materials and retention features differ.

Amazon Basics uses a removable plastic tray and a metal hook to help keep it in place. FDW's ABS composite tray has a raised lip, and the Precision Pet crate comes with a removable shatter-resistant pan.

If you plan to move the crate often, consider its weight and handle as well as how flat it folds. If it will stay in one place, prioritize fit, door access and a cleaning routine over portability.

How do you set up and care for a wire crate?

A good setup starts with a stable spot, secure latches and a clear entry path. Follow the model's assembly instructions, fit the tray and divider correctly, and check the doors before your dog uses the crate.

Set the crate on a level floor where both the dog and the open door have room. If the model has a tray hook, lock it after placing the tray; with any crate, check that the tray sits flat and the doors close fully.

Clean up spills promptly and wash the tray as needed. Check the latches, wire joints and tray fit during routine cleaning, and remove bedding if it blocks the door or takes up too much of the usable space.

For a step-by-step walkthrough, see how to set up a dog crate and our guide to cleaning a dog crate.

What mistakes can lead to the wrong crate?

The most common sizing mistake is choosing by breed or the “42-inch” label alone. Dogs of the same breed can differ in size, and outside dimensions don't tell you exactly how much room your dog gets inside.

Another mistake is overlooking the room layout. A double-door crate won't help if the side entrance is blocked, and a single-door crate can be awkward if the front has to sit against furniture.

Don't assume a divider comes with every model. New World sells its divider separately, and skipping that detail can add a separate buying step if you need adjustable space.

Finally, don't leave the tray hook unsecured on the Amazon Basics double-door model. Lock it after installing the tray, and check the door latches before each use.

Which 42 inch dog crate should you choose?

Choose the MidWest double-door iCrate if you want two entry points, an included divider and a leak-proof tray. Choose its single-door version for a fixed front entrance, or the starter kit if you'll use the bed, cover and bowls.

Pick the New World double-door crate if you prefer that two-door layout and don't need a divider in the box. Choose Amazon Basics or FDW when their size guidance and tray or storage features match your needs; consider Precision Pet for its five-point locking system.

Before you buy any 42 inch dog crate, measure your dog and check the room where it will sit. If the fit looks tight, compare larger options in our extra-large dog crate guide.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for flexible room placement

   MidWest 42-inch double door iCrate

   9.2/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for a simple front entrance

   MidWest 42-inch single door iCrate

   9.0/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for side-door access

   Amazon Basics 42-inch double door wire crate

   8.8/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What size dog fits a 42 inch crate?

A 42-inch crate may suit a large dog, but the size label alone can't confirm the fit. Measure your dog from nose to tail base and from floor to head, then compare those measurements with the crate's usable space.

A maker's weight range or pet-size limit can help you narrow the choices, but your dog's measurements are the key check.

Is a 42 inch crate big enough for a Golden Retriever?

Some Golden Retrievers may fit a 42-inch crate, but dogs vary in height and length. Measure your dog while standing and compare with the crate's interior dimensions and fit guidance.

Our Golden Retriever crate size guide walks through those measurements.

Should I choose a single-door or double-door 42 inch crate?

Choose a double-door crate if front and side entrances will make placement easier in your room. A single-door crate works when the front stays clear and you want a simpler layout.

Check the door swing and the path your dog will use before you settle on a spot.

Does a 42 inch dog crate need a divider?

A divider can reduce the usable space in a crate while a puppy grows. Set it to leave room for your dog to stand, turn around and lie down, then move it as your dog grows.

Some crates include a divider, while the New World models here sell it separately.

How do I know if my dog needs a 42 or 48 inch crate?

Compare your dog's standing length and height with the usable interior, allowing room to stand, turn around and lie down. A 42-inch crate may be too small for a dog near the upper end of a maker's recommended weight range.

See our 36-inch vs 42-inch crate comparison and extra-large dog crate guide.