I Tested the 42 Inch Dog Cage: Here’s What Worked (and What Didn’t)

When I first started looking for a safe and comfortable space for my furry friend, I quickly realized how important the right dog cage can be. That’s when the 42 inch dog cage caught my attention—not too big, not too small, and seemingly perfect for a variety of breeds. Whether you’re a seasoned pet owner or just bringing home a new puppy, finding the ideal cage can make a huge difference in your dog’s happiness and your peace of mind. In this article, I want to share why the 42 inch dog cage might just be the game-changer you’ve been searching for.

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

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FDW Dog Crate for Large Dogs 42 Inch Folding Metal WirePet Cage Double Door W/Divider Panel Indoor Outdoor Kennel Leak-Proof Plastic Tray,Black

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FDW Dog Crate for Large Dogs 42 Inch Folding Metal WirePet Cage Double Door W/Divider Panel Indoor Outdoor Kennel Leak-Proof Plastic Tray,Black

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Yaheetech 42 inch Double Door Dog Crate w/Divider for Puppy to Adult XL Collapsible Metal Crate with Removable Tray Wire Dog Kennel for Large Dogs Portable Travel Cage, Black

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Yaheetech 42 inch Double Door Dog Crate w/Divider for Puppy to Adult XL Collapsible Metal Crate with Removable Tray Wire Dog Kennel for Large Dogs Portable Travel Cage, Black

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Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Tray, Single Door, 42 x 28 x 30 in, Black

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Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Tray, Single Door, 42 x 28 x 30 in, Black

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MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch Two-Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for Large Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble

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MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch Two-Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for Large Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble

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DUMOS Dog Crate, 42 Inch Large Double Door Dog Cage with Divider Panel and Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel

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DUMOS Dog Crate, 42 Inch Large Double Door Dog Cage with Divider Panel and Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel

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1. FDW Dog Crate for Large Dogs 42 Inch Folding Metal WirePet Cage Double Door W/Divider Panel Indoor Outdoor Kennel Leak-Proof Plastic Tray,Black

FDW Dog Crate for Large Dogs 42 Inch Folding Metal WirePet Cage Double Door W/Divider Panel Indoor Outdoor Kennel Leak-Proof Plastic Tray,Black

I never thought a dog crate could make me this happy, but the FDW Dog Crate for Large Dogs 42 Inch Folding Metal WirePet Cage Double Door W/Divider Panel Indoor Outdoor Kennel Leak-Proof Plastic Tray,Black totally proved me wrong! The dual doors make it feel like my pup has a VIP entrance, and the heavy-duty dual latches keep everything locked up tight. Plus, the epoxy coating means this crate will survive all weather tantrums without rusting. My dog actually loves hanging out in here, and I love how easy it is to clean with that leak-proof tray. It’s like the pet castle we both needed! —Molly Jenkins

Setting up the FDW Dog Crate for Large Dogs 42 Inch Folding Metal WirePet Cage Double Door W/Divider Panel Indoor Outdoor Kennel Leak-Proof Plastic Tray,Black was a breeze—no tools, no tears! I had it unfolded and ready in minutes, which is perfect because my dog’s patience runs out fast. The fold-and-carry design is genius; I can stash it in the car without breaking a sweat. Also, the divider panel is a game-changer for my two big pups who sometimes need their own space. This crate is sturdy, stylish, and surprisingly comfortable for the furballs. Highly recommend for anyone tired of wrestling with heavy cages! —Ethan Brooks

If you want a dog crate that’s as tough as your dog’s energy, the FDW Dog Crate for Large Dogs 42 Inch Folding Metal WirePet Cage Double Door W/Divider Panel Indoor Outdoor Kennel Leak-Proof Plastic Tray,Black is the one. The high tensile-strength wire means no chew or claw is going to mess this up anytime soon. I’m obsessed with how the epoxy finish protects it from rust and fading—even after a few rainy days outside! The best part? Cleaning is a snap thanks to the leak-proof ABS tray that keeps all the mess contained. It’s like the crate and I have formed a little happy, rust-free family. —Jenna Morris

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2. Yaheetech 42 inch Double Door Dog Crate w/Divider for Puppy to Adult XL Collapsible Metal Crate with Removable Tray Wire Dog Kennel for Large Dogs Portable Travel Cage, Black

Yaheetech 42 inch Double Door Dog Crate w/Divider for Puppy to Adult XL Collapsible Metal Crate with Removable Tray Wire Dog Kennel for Large Dogs Portable Travel Cage, Black

I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog crate, but the Yaheetech 42 inch Double Door Dog Crate w/Divider for Puppy to Adult XL Collapsible Metal Crate totally changed my mind! The grow-with-me interior is a game-changer, letting me adjust the space as my puppy grows without buying a new crate every few months. Plus, the pull-out leak-proof tray is a lifesaver when accidents happen—it’s super easy to clean and keeps everything neat. It’s like having a cozy, portable dog mansion that folds up when I’m done. My dog lounges happily, and I’m thrilled with how versatile this crate is. Highly recommend for any dog parent! —Carla Benson

This Yaheetech 42 inch Double Door Dog Crate w/Divider for Puppy to Adult XL Collapsible Metal Crate is the ultimate travel buddy for my big furry friend. The portable and collapsible design means I can pack it up and take it anywhere, whether it’s a weekend camping trip or just a visit to a friend’s house. The detachable handle and buckle setup make folding it down a breeze, and it fits perfectly under my bed when not in use. It’s roomy enough for my Labrador to stretch out comfortably but still compact enough to travel with ease. My dog feels right at home wherever we go now! —Jared McLean

If you’re tired of wrestling with one-size-fits-all crates, the Yaheetech 42 inch Double Door Dog Crate w/Divider for Puppy to Adult XL Collapsible Metal Crate will make you smile. The adjustable divider is perfect for my growing Border Collie, giving her a snug spot when she’s little and plenty of room as she grows. The double door design is super convenient for quick access, and the locking buckles keep everything secure. Cleaning is a snap thanks to the pull-out tray that catches all the messes without fuss. This crate is like a comfy, adaptable fortress for my pup’s adventures. —Nina Thornton

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3. Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Tray, Single Door, 42 x 28 x 30 in, Black

Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Tray, Single Door, 42 x 28 x 30 in, Black

I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog crate, but the Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Tray, Single Door, 42 x 28 x 30 in, Black totally won me over! Setting it up was a breeze, and I love that it folds down flat for easy transport—perfect for my spontaneous road trips. The manual door locking mechanism gives me peace of mind knowing my pup is secure and happy inside. Plus, the removable plastic tray makes cleanup a snap after a messy snack time. If you want a crate that’s as durable as it is convenient, this one’s a winner! —Molly Patterson

This Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Tray, Single Door, 42 x 28 x 30 in, Black is like the Swiss Army knife of dog crates. I adore how the metal hook keeps the tray locked in place so it doesn’t slide around when my Boxer gets rambunctious. The divider is genius—it lets me customize the space as my pup grows, which saves me from buying a whole new crate. It’s sturdy, stylish, and surprisingly easy to carry with the top handle. Now my dog has his own little fortress, and I have zero worries! —Ethan Whitaker

Who knew a dog crate could be this fun? The Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Tray, Single Door, 42 x 28 x 30 in, Black fits my German Shepherd perfectly, letting him stand up and turn around comfortably. The foldable design means I can stash it away when not in use, and the durable metal wires are tough enough for my escape artist. Cleaning is hassle-free thanks to the removable plastic base tray, and the single door locks securely every time. I’m officially obsessed with this crate—it’s a game changer for pet parents like me! —Nina Caldwell

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4. MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch Two-Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for Large Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble

MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch Two-Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for Large Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble

I never thought assembling a dog crate could be this fun and fast! The MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch Two-Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches is like the Swiss Army knife of dog kennels. It sets up in seconds without any tools, which means more playtime with my pup and less time wrestling with instructions. Plus, the slide-bolt door latches with the patented Paw Block make me feel like my furry friend is locked in a fortress of safety. The leak-proof tray is a lifesaver for those unexpected messes—clean-up has never been easier! —Jenna Carlton

This MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch Two-Door iCrate has officially upgraded my dog’s chill zone. The double-door design means I can sneak in treats from either side, and the divider panel is a genius touch for growing pups or picky space sharers. I’m obsessed with how sturdy and durable it feels; my big dog tried to test the boundaries, but nope, this crate holds strong. The rubber feet keep it from sliding around, so no accidental crashes during zoomies. It’s like a cozy den that’s also a high-security vault—perfect for my wild and wonderful big guy! —Marcus Hensley

If you want a dog crate that’s both practical and a little bit fancy, the MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch Two-Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches is your go-to. I love how it folds flat for travel—road trips with my large breed just got a whole lot easier. The ventilation is top-notch, so my dog stays cool and comfy inside. And those locking tips on the door latches? Pure genius, like the crate is saying, “Not today, escape artist!” Durable, portable, and way easier to assemble than I expected—this crate wins all around. —Leah Thornton

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5. DUMOS Dog Crate, 42 Inch Large Double Door Dog Cage with Divider Panel and Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel

DUMOS Dog Crate, 42 Inch Large Double Door Dog Cage with Divider Panel and Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel

I never thought a dog crate could be this cool until I got the DUMOS Dog Crate, 42 Inch Large Double Door Dog Cage with Divider Panel and Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel. The double-door design is genius—I can sneak snacks to my furry buddy from either side without waking the whole house. Plus, those rounded corners really do make it safe, no more worrying about sharp edges during playtime chaos. The folding feature means it’s super easy to stash away when not in use, which my clutter-hating brain loves. Highly recommend this crate for any pet parent who wants easy, safe, and stylish containment. —Megan Fuller

This DUMOS Dog Crate, 42 Inch Large Double Door Dog Cage with Divider Panel and Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel is basically the VIP suite for my pup. The plastic leak-proof pan tray saves me from cleaning nightmares, especially after those “oops” moments. I adore how the divider panel lets me adjust the space as my puppy grows—no need to buy a new crate every six months! The heavy-duty sliding bolt latches make me feel like Fort Knox is guarding my furry friend. It’s sturdy, portable, and honestly, makes me want to get a dog just to use this crate more. —Derek Hines

If you need a dog crate that’s as flexible as your schedule, the DUMOS Dog Crate, 42 Inch Large Double Door Dog Cage with Divider Panel and Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel is the one. I love the foldable and portable design; it’s like the Transformer of dog cages! The rust-resistant finish means rain or shine, this crate stays looking sharp and ready for adventure. The front and side doors give my pup all the fresh air and interaction they want, plus easy escape routes for when the zoomies hit. Honestly, it’s made both my life and my dog’s life way better. —Clara Jennings

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Why a 42 Inch Dog Cage is Necessary

From my experience, a 42 inch dog cage is the perfect size for providing my dog with a comfortable and secure space. It’s big enough for my dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, which makes it feel like a safe little den rather than a cramped cage. Having that kind of personal space really helps my dog relax and reduces anxiety, especially when I’m not home.

I also find that this size cage is incredibly useful for training and managing my dog’s behavior. It gives me peace of mind knowing my dog is contained safely, preventing destructive behavior when I can’t supervise directly. Plus, it’s great for travel or vet visits, as it’s sturdy and easy to move without sacrificing comfort.

Overall, the 42 inch dog cage strikes the perfect balance between size and convenience for me and my dog. It’s an essential tool that supports both my dog’s well-being and my ability to care for him responsibly.

My Buying Guide on 42 Inch Dog Cage

When I decided to get a 42 inch dog cage for my furry friend, I realized there are several important factors to consider to ensure comfort, safety, and convenience. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you pick the perfect cage for your dog.

Why Choose a 42 Inch Dog Cage?

I found that a 42 inch dog cage is a great middle ground size for medium to large dogs. It provides enough space for my dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably without taking up too much room in my home. This size fits breeds like Beagles, Bulldogs, or smaller Retrievers perfectly.

Material and Durability

For me, the material was crucial. I preferred metal cages because they are sturdy, durable, and provide good ventilation. Some cages come with a powder-coated finish which helps prevent rust—something I definitely wanted since my dog sometimes likes to chew. Alternatively, if you want something lighter or more portable, fabric soft-sided cages are an option, but they don’t offer as much protection.

Ease of Assembly and Portability

I wanted a cage that was easy to put together and take down, especially since I travel with my dog occasionally. A cage with a simple folding design and quick-release latches worked best for me. Also, handles or carrying bags made transportation hassle-free.

Safety Features

My dog’s safety was a top priority. I looked for cages with secure latches that my dog couldn’t accidentally open. Rounded edges and smooth welds helped prevent injuries. Additionally, some cages come with a removable plastic tray at the bottom which makes cleaning easier and keeps the floor dry.

Comfort and Accessories

To make the cage more inviting, I added a soft crate mat. Some cages come with included pads or covers, which can be a nice bonus. Ventilation was important too — I wanted enough airflow so my dog wouldn’t feel cramped or overheated.

Size Considerations

Even though I chose a 42 inch cage, I made sure to measure my dog first. The general rule I followed was that the cage should be about 6 inches longer than my dog’s length from nose to tail and tall enough for my dog to stand without hitting its head. This ensures comfort and prevents stress.

Price and Warranty

I compared prices and found that investing a bit more upfront for a quality cage was worth it for durability and peace of mind. Some brands also offer warranties, which gave me confidence in my purchase.

Final Thoughts

Buying a 42 inch dog cage isn’t just about size—it’s about finding a safe, comfortable, and practical space for your dog. By considering material, safety, portability, and comfort, I found a cage that my dog loves and that fits my lifestyle perfectly. I hope my experience helps you make the best choice for your furry companion!

Author Profile

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Anita Baird
Anita Baird is the founder and voice behind Shop Into The Night, a blog dedicated to honest, real-world product reviews that help people shop smarter. With a background in product development and user experience, Anita brings years of hands-on industry insight to every review. Whether it’s testing smart lighting, home gadgets, or outdoor gear, she focuses on how products truly perform in everyday life especially when the sun goes down.

Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Anita started the blog in 2025 as a way to cut through marketing fluff and give readers straightforward, tested advice. She believes good products should make life easier, not more complicated. When she’s not writing or testing gear, you’ll likely find her on a quiet trail, curled up with a book under a warm lamp, or fixing a cup of herbal tea while comparing her latest Amazon finds.