Menu

Search ChocolateLabs.com

Gear for Labs

What Size Crate Does a Lab Need?

By · Updated · 2 sources

Disclosure: Some links on this page go to companies that run affiliate programs. If ChocolateLabs.com joins those programs, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes what we recommend. Read our disclosure.

Chocolate Labrador puppy lying in long grass with a chew in its mouth
Photo: Rob Hanson, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
On this page (8)
  1. Quick answers
  2. Measure, don’t guess
  3. Crate types
  4. Crate-training basics
  5. Making the crate work
  6. Products mentioned
  7. FAQ
  8. Sources

Quick answers

What size crate for a Lab puppy?

Buy an adult-size crate and use a divider. Most Labs need a 36–42 inch wire crate as adults; the divider keeps the puppy’s space just big enough to stand, turn and lie down. Size up the living area as they grow. Answer page →

Measure, don’t guess

  1. Length. Nose to base of tail, standing, plus 2–4 inches.
  2. Height. Floor to top of head (or ear tips) while sitting, plus 2–4 inches.
  3. Compare both measurements with the maker’s interior dimensions, not the exterior.

Most adult Labs fall into the large-crate category. Exact model sizes differ, so use your measurements and the maker’s chart.

Crate types

TypeProsCons
Wire (e.g. MidWest iCrate)Ventilation, folds flat, divider panelNoisy; some dogs need a cover
Plastic (airline-style)Cozy, travel-friendlyHard to grow with a puppy
Furniture-styleLooks niceNot for chewing puppies
Heavy-dutyFor escape artistsHeavy, costly

Crate-training basics

  • Make the crate a good place: meals and stuffed KONGs inside.
  • Build time gradually, starting with a few minutes while you’re home.
  • Never use the crate as punishment.
  • Puppies can usually hold their bladder roughly their age in months plus one hours, a common guideline. Plan potty breaks accordingly.

More in our puppy training guide.

Making the crate work

A crate is the backbone of week-by-week puppy training and part of the new-puppy shopping checklist. It’s also essential after surgery: Labs recovering from TPLO need weeks of crate rest. Pair it with a durable stuffable chew so crate time stays positive.

Products mentioned

Wire crate

MidWest iCrate

MidWest

Best for: Growing puppies (divider panel)

  • Folding wire crate
  • Divider panel lets the crate grow with the puppy
Check MidWest

We don't list prices because they change often. Check the current price with the seller.

Frequently asked questions

Should I buy an adult-size crate for my Lab puppy?

Yes. Buy for adult size and use a divider panel so the puppy has only enough room to stand, turn and lie down. That helps house-training.

Sources

  1. MidWest Homes for Pets: crate sizing guide
  2. AKC: How to crate train your dog

Browse all 7 guides in Gear for Labs

Explore ChocolateLabs.com