Crate size by weight vs by measurement: which to trust
Every chart starts with weight. PetMD's own chart adds length and height limits, and says the measurement wins.
Short answer: use weight for a first guess, then measure. PetMD: “Base crate size on your dog’s measurements, and not their weight or breed alone.”
| By weight | By measurement | |
|---|---|---|
| What you need | A scale | Tape: nose to base of tail, floor to top of head |
| Source | MidWest bands, PetMD weight column | PetMD length/height columns and fit tests |
| Good for | First guess; a puppy’s adult size from AKC breed weight | Long or tall dogs, between-size dogs |
| Fit tests | — | Stand, turn, 2” above head when sitting, lie on side with legs out |
Why weight alone isn’t enough
Two 40 lb dogs can need different crates: a stocky Bulldog and a leggy hound weigh the same but don’t stand the same. PetMD’s chart gives three limits per crate (weight, dog length, dog height). A 36” crate is rated to 41–70 lb, but only to a 30” long, 20” tall dog. Fail any one and PetMD says go up a size.
How to measure for a crate
- Length: nose to base of tail, dog standing.
- Height: floor to top of head, dog sitting.
- Compare to the crate’s PetMD length/height limits. PetSmart’s guide adds 2–4 inches to each measurement (cited in the existing crate guide).
Bedding takes space
Mats and beds eat into the interior. Measure with the bedding you plan to use.
Too small vs too big
Too small makes crate training unpleasant; too big can undo house training (PetMD). For a puppy, buy for adult size and use a divider.
Sources: PetMD crate sizing; MidWest iCrate guide; AKC weight chart.
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.