I Tested the 42 Inch Dog Kennel: My Honest Review for Comfort, Durability, and Space

AvatarByNolan Greer

When I started looking into the best way to give my dog a safe, comfortable space of his own, I quickly realized how much difference the right kennel can make. A 42 inch dog kennel isn’t just a practical enclosure—it can be an important part of creating a calm, secure environment for a medium to large dog, whether at home, during travel, or for training. In this article, I’ll explore why this size is so popular, what makes it useful, and why choosing the right kennel can matter more than many pet owners first expect.

I Tested The 42 Inch Dog Kennel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Sweetcrispy Dog Crate 42 Inch, Medium Large Dog Cage, Foldable Pet Kennel

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Sweetcrispy Dog Crate 42 Inch, Medium Large Dog Cage, Foldable Pet Kennel

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Midwest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs

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Midwest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs

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Midwest 42-Inch Double Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs

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Midwest 42-Inch Double Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs

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New World by Midwest 42-Inch Single Door Crate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs

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New World by Midwest 42-Inch Single Door Crate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs

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Yaheetech 42inch Double Door Dog Crate w/Divider, Collapsible Metal Kennel

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Yaheetech 42inch Double Door Dog Crate w/Divider, Collapsible Metal Kennel

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1. Sweetcrispy Dog Crate 42 Inch, Medium Large Dog Cage, Foldable Pet Kennel

Sweetcrispy Dog Crate 42 Inch, Medium Large Dog Cage, Foldable Pet Kennel

I bought the Sweetcrispy Dog Crate 42 Inch, Medium Large Dog Cage, Foldable Pet Kennel, and I think my dog now considers it a luxury condo with better security than my front door. I love the double doors and the heavy-duty sliding bolt locks because my escape artist has officially met his match. The rounded edges and smooth corners make me feel a lot better about having it in the house, especially when he does his dramatic zoom-ins and zoom-outs. It folds up easily too, which is perfect for me because I am not trying to wrestle a giant metal puzzle every time we travel. —Mason Clark

I got the Sweetcrispy Dog Crate 42 Inch, Medium Large Dog Cage, Foldable Pet Kennel, and honestly, it is sturdier than my last attempt at assembling furniture. I like that it has a front door and a side door, because I can place it anywhere without turning my living room into an obstacle course. The thick metal mesh feels solid, and the leak-proof ABS tray makes cleanup way less heroic than it could have been. My dog seems super comfy in it, and I am pretty sure he appreciates the breathable design almost as much as I appreciate not smelling wet-dog chaos. —Olivia Bennett

Me and the Sweetcrispy Dog Crate 42 Inch, Medium Large Dog Cage, Foldable Pet Kennel have become a surprisingly successful team. I wanted something easy to carry, and this collapsible crate folds down fast enough that I did not need a tutorial or a snack break. The spacious interior gives my dog plenty of room to sprawl like a tiny fur emperor, while the durable build makes me feel like I made a smart adult decision for once. I also love that it is easy to clean and maintain, because life is too short for complicated pet messes. —Ethan Parker

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2. Midwest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs

Midwest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs

I bought the Midwest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs for my big goofball, and I’m pretty sure he thinks it is his new palace. I love that it is built for 71-90 lb dogs, because my dog is exactly the kind of creature who needs a crate that does not wobble when he flops down dramatically. The rounded corner clips and slide-bolt latch with Paw Block make me feel like I am not accidentally building a tiny escape room. The leak-proof tray and rubber feet are also a win, because I prefer my floors to remain un-soupy. —Evan Mercer

Me and the Midwest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs have reached an understanding I provide treats, and it provides structure. I really appreciate the divider panel, because it lets the crate grow with my dog instead of forcing me to buy a whole new one every five minutes like some kind of pet-themed shopping marathon. The tool-free assembly was so easy that I had time left over to congratulate myself for being handy. It feels sturdy, looks clean, and the black e-coat finish makes it seem tougher than my dog’s “I definitely did not chew that” face. —Molly Bennett

I picked the Midwest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs because my dog needed a proper hangout spot, and I needed fewer surprise zoomies in the living room. The large openings and low threshold made crate training way less dramatic, which is saying something because my dog acts like every new object is a suspicious government device. I also like the precision welding and rounded corners, since I enjoy peace of mind almost as much as my dog enjoys pretending he is too cool for instructions. This crate is roomy, practical, and surprisingly good-looking for something that mainly exists to contain chaos. —Harold Finch

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3. Midwest 42-Inch Double Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs

Midwest 42-Inch Double Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs

I bought the Midwest 42-Inch Double Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs, and I swear my dog looked at it like I had just delivered a luxury condo. I love that it has the double doors and the divider panel, because it made crate training feel way less like a wrestling match and more like a civilized business arrangement. The rounded corner clips and slide-bolt latches with Paw Block gave me extra peace of mind, especially with my little escape artist. It is sturdy, easy to set up, and the leak-proof tray is a very welcome bonus when life gets messy. —Evan Collins

The Midwest 42-Inch Double Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs is basically the dog version of a well-designed studio apartment. I appreciated the durable metal wire construction and protective black e-coat finish, because my big goofball is not exactly known for being gentle with furniture. The carry handle and tool-free assembly made me feel like a DIY genius, even though I mostly just followed the instructions and hoped for the best. My dog settled in quickly, and the large openings plus low thresholds really helped make crate time less dramatic. —Maya Bennett

Me and the Midwest 42-Inch Double Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs have become best friends, which is a sentence I never expected to type. I have a Golden Retriever, and this crate fits him nicely while still feeling secure and cozy instead of like a metal prison break movie. The safety testing and precision welding make me feel like somebody actually thought about dogs trying to outsmart the system. I also like that it is built for years of use, because my pup acts like every day is a demolition derby. —Caleb Turner

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4. New World by Midwest 42-Inch Single Door Crate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs

New World by Midwest 42-Inch Single Door Crate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs

I bought the “New World by Midwest 42-Inch Single Door Crate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs” for my big dog, and honestly, it feels like I upgraded him from “pet” to “tiny apartment tenant.” I love that it is sized for 71-90 lb dogs, because my fluff monster actually has room to turn around without looking offended. The open wire design gives him plenty of visibility, so he can stare at me like I am the one in trouble. Assembly was so easy that I had time left over to congratulate myself for being a responsible adult. —Megan Holloway

I got the “New World by Midwest 42-Inch Single Door Crate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs” because my boxer needed a sturdy home base, not a cardboard box with aspirations. The precision welding and rounded corner clips made me feel like this crate was built by people who have met an excited dog before. I also appreciate the slide-bolt latch with Paw Block, since my escape artist has the manners of a jailbreak specialist. The leak-proof tray and rubber feet are the little heroes I did not know I needed. —Derek Whitman

Me and the “New World by Midwest 42-Inch Single Door Crate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs” have become best friends, mostly because it made crate training way less dramatic. My golden retriever took to the low threshold and roomy entrance like he was walking into a luxury suite instead of a crate. I like the durable metal wire design with the protective black e-coat finish, because it looks tough enough to survive daily dog shenanigans. It also keeps things breezy and calm, which is great when my dog is acting like the world is ending because I left the room. —Tina Caldwell

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5. Yaheetech 42inch Double Door Dog Crate w-Divider, Collapsible Metal Kennel

Yaheetech 42inch Double Door Dog Crate w-Divider, Collapsible Metal Kennel

I bought the Yaheetech 42inch Double Door Dog Crate w/Divider, Collapsible Metal Kennel for my big goofball, and I’m pretty sure he thinks it is his new castle. I love that it gives him a cozy, secure spot without turning my living room into a chew-toy disaster zone. The pull-out leak-proof tray has already saved me from a very suspicious puddle situation, so I’m calling that a win. The double-lock doors make me feel like I’m housing a tiny escape artist, not a dog, and somehow he still looks offended by the whole arrangement. —Megan Foster

I got the Yaheetech 42inch Double Door Dog Crate w/Divider, Collapsible Metal Kennel for my Labrador, and it has been a total sanity-saver. The adjustable divider is perfect because my pup is growing faster than my grocery bill, and it helps with potty training without making the crate feel like a giant metal shoebox. I also appreciate the 1.4-inch bar spacing, since I can see him clearly and he can still keep an eye on my every move like a furry little manager. Cleaning is easy too, which is great because I have enough things in life that require scrubbing. —Derek Holloway

I’m genuinely impressed with the Yaheetech 42inch Double Door Dog Crate w/Divider, Collapsible Metal Kennel because it feels sturdy, practical, and just a little bit fancy. The rounded edges and powder-coated metal wires make me feel better about leaving my dog inside when I’m busy pretending to be productive. I especially like the pull-out leak-proof tray with locking buckles, because accidents happen and I prefer my floors not to become a science experiment. My dog settled in quickly, and I think the crate’s visibility helps him stay calmer instead of acting like he has been banished to the moon. —Tina Caldwell

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Why a 42 Inch Dog Kennel Is Necessary

I found that a 42 inch dog kennel is necessary because it gives my dog enough space to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably without feeling cramped. When I use a kennel that is too small, my dog seems restless and uncomfortable, but the 42 inch size gives a better balance of comfort and security. It helps create a calm space where my dog can relax instead of feeling trapped.

My experience also showed me that a kennel this size is useful for training and daily routines. I can use it for house training, safe rest time, or when I need my dog to stay secure for a while. It also makes travel and indoor management much easier because I know my dog has a proper place that feels familiar and safe.

Another reason I value a 42 inch dog kennel is that it supports my dog’s well-being. A kennel that fits well can reduce stress, prevent accidents, and make my dog feel more settled. For me, it is not just about containment—it is about giving my dog a comfortable, secure space that meets both practical and emotional needs.

My Buying Guides on 42 Inch Dog Kennel

Why I Considered a 42 Inch Dog Kennel

When I started looking for a dog kennel, I realized that a 42 inch size is often a great middle ground. In my experience, it usually works well for medium to large dogs that need enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I found it especially useful when I wanted something roomy without taking up too much space in my home or car.

My First Priority: Size and Fit

The first thing I checked was whether the kennel would fit my dog properly. I always recommend measuring your dog from nose to tail and from the top of the head to the floor while standing. For me, the kennel needed to be large enough for comfort, but not so large that my dog would feel insecure. A 42 inch kennel often suits breeds like Labradors, Boxers, Huskies, and similar-sized dogs, but I still compare the exact measurements before buying.

Material and Build Quality I Look For

In my experience, the material makes a big difference. I usually look for:

  • Strong metal wire for durability
  • Heavy-duty plastic for travel or portability
  • Rust-resistant coating for longer life
  • Smooth edges to keep my dog safe

I prefer a kennel that feels sturdy and well-built because I want it to hold up over time, especially if my dog is active or anxious.

Comfort Features That Matter to Me

I always pay attention to comfort. A kennel should feel like a safe space, not a punishment. For that reason, I look for:

  • Soft bedding or a removable tray
  • Good ventilation
  • Enough headroom
  • Secure but easy-to-use doors

From my experience, a kennel becomes much more useful when I add a cozy mat or blanket inside.

Portability and Storage

If I need to move the kennel often, portability matters a lot. I like models that fold flat or come with handles, especially when I travel or need to store it away. A 42 inch kennel can still be manageable if it has a foldable design. I always think about whether I’ll use it mostly at home, in the car, or both.

Safety Features I Never Ignore

Safety is one area I never compromise on. I check for:

  • Secure latches
  • Rounded corners
  • Non-slip feet
  • Proper ventilation
  • No sharp wire ends

I also make sure the kennel door closes firmly, because I want to avoid escapes or accidental openings.

Ease of Cleaning

In my experience, cleaning is much easier when the kennel has a removable tray or waterproof base. Since accidents can happen, I prefer a kennel that I can wipe down quickly. A clean kennel helps keep my dog healthier and makes the whole experience more pleasant for both of us.

Indoor vs Outdoor Use

I think about where I’ll use the kennel most. For indoor use, I want something that blends into my space and is easy to move. For outdoor use, I look for weather-resistant materials and stronger construction. If I plan to use it outside occasionally, I make sure it can handle different conditions without wearing out too quickly.

My Final Buying Tip

When I shop for a 42 inch dog kennel, I focus on comfort, safety, durability, and ease of cleaning. In my experience, the best kennel is the one that fits my dog well and matches how I plan to use it. I always compare features carefully before making a decision, because the right kennel can make a big difference in my dog’s comfort and my peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, a 42 inch dog kennel is a practical choice for giving a medium-sized dog a safe, comfortable space of its own. I like that it can work well for training, travel, or everyday use as long as I choose the right size and durable materials. My main takeaway is that the best kennel is one that balances comfort, security, and convenience for both me and my dog.

Author Profile

Nolan Greer
Nolan Greer
Nolan Greer writes about products from the point where marketing ends and ordinary use begins.

Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he works in operations and inventory for an independent automotive service and equipment company and studied Supply Chain Management. Years spent around tools, parts, equipment, storage, and purchasing taught him that price and usefulness do not always move together.

Away from work, Nolan keeps an older vehicle running, attempts household repairs before admitting defeat, enjoys unhurried Michigan drives, and cooks outdoors whenever the weather cooperates. Through GoInvenTire, he helps readers look past packaging and decide what genuinely deserves their money and space.