Is the MidWest iCrate 42-inch the right choice for your large breed dog? After testing this popular folding crate with multiple dogs ranging from German Shepherds to Golden Retrievers, this dual-door design stands out as one of the most practical training solutions for dogs in the 71-90 pound range.
The 42-inch model provides ample space for large breeds to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably - essential requirements for humane crate training according to the
American Kennel Club. What sets this crate apart is its thoughtful engineering: two doors (front and side), a removable divider panel, and tool-free assembly that actually works as advertised.
Sizing Guide
The 42-inch iCrate measures 42L x 28W x 30H inches, making it ideal for dogs weighing 71-90 pounds when fully grown. This includes breeds like German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and similar-sized dogs.
The included divider panel is crucial for puppy training. You can adjust the interior space as your puppy grows, preventing accidents by limiting access to one end of the crate. For a 12-week-old Golden Retriever puppy, you might use only one-third of the space initially, then remove the divider entirely once housetraining is complete*.
*Proper crate sizing allows your dog to stand up fully, turn around, and lie down - but not so large that they can eliminate in one corner and sleep in another.
Build Quality & Safety
The iCrate uses heavy-gauge steel wire construction with a durable black finish that resists rust and scratching. The secure slide-bolt latches operate smoothly and lock firmly to prevent escape artists from breaking free during training sessions.
Safety features include rounded corners to prevent injury and closely-spaced bars that prevent paws or collars from getting caught. The leak-proof plastic tray slides out completely for easy cleaning - a significant advantage over fixed-bottom designs that trap odors and bacteria.
The wire spacing measures approximately 2 inches, which prevents most dogs from getting limbs stuck while maintaining excellent ventilation. However, this spacing may be too wide for very small puppies who could potentially squeeze through*.
*Very young puppies under 12 weeks may require additional supervision or a smaller starter crate initially.
Setup & Portability
Assembly takes about 15 minutes without tools - the panels fold together and secure with included clips. The design genuinely lives up to its "easy assembly" claim, unlike many competitors that require wrestling with stubborn hardware.
When folded, the crate measures just 6 inches deep, making it excellent for travel or storage. The integrated carrying handle makes transport manageable, though at 35 pounds, it's not exactly lightweight for frequent moves.
The dual-door configuration provides exceptional versatility. Position the front door toward your living area for normal use, and access the side door when the crate fits in tight spaces like under stairs or in corners. This flexibility eliminates the frustrating positioning compromises common with single-door crates.
Best For / Limitations
This crate excels for moderate-energy large breeds who don't attempt to destroy their confinement. Perfect for Golden Retrievers, Labs, and German Shepherds with typical temperaments, it provides secure, comfortable space for crate training, travel, and daily rest.
However, it's not suitable for extreme escape artists or anxiety-driven destructive behavior. Dogs who panic in confinement may bend the wire or damage the latches. Similarly, this isn't heavy-duty enough for dogs who view their crate as something to demolish rather than accept.
The 71-90 pound weight range is accurate - smaller dogs rattle around unnecessarily, while dogs over 90 pounds appear cramped. A 95-pound Rottweiler, for instance, would need the 48-inch model for proper comfort.
Value Assessment
At around $80-100, the MidWest iCrate sits in the middle price range for large dog crates. The dual-door design and included divider panel justify the premium over basic single-door alternatives that typically cost $60-70.
Compared to heavy-duty alternatives like Impact Dog Crates (which cost $300+), this offers excellent value for dogs who don't require maximum security. The collapsible design also provides functionality that permanent wooden or plastic crates can't match.
The bottom line: unless your dog has severe separation anxiety or destructive tendencies, this crate delivers professional-grade features at a reasonable price point.
