Petco vs PetSmart in 2026: Which Is Better?
Choosing between Petco and PetSmart is a decision many pet owners face. Both have strong reputations, loyal customer bases, and distinct strengths. This 2026 comparison covers pricing, features, value, and who each option is best suited for.
Quick verdict: PetSmart has more locations and often slightly lower prices. Petco excels in vet services and has a stronger wellness focus. Your local experience will heavily influence the better choice.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Criteria | Petco | PetSmart |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Competitive retail pricing, Repeat Delivery discounts | Competitive retail pricing, frequent sales |
| Coverage/Features | vet hospitals, grooming, training, wide product selection | 1,650+ locations, grooming, training, adoption events |
| Best For | customers near Petco who want integrated vet and grooming services | customers who want the most retail locations and widest in-store selection |
| Availability | Nationwide | Nationwide |
| Customer Support | Phone, chat, in-store | Phone, chat, in-store |
| App Quality | Full iOS/Android app | Full iOS/Android app |
| Customization | Moderate | Moderate |
| Waiting Period | Varies | Varies |
| Reimbursement | 70–90% | 70–90% |
| Overall Rating | 4.1/5 | 4.0/5 |
Petco: Overview and Pros/Cons
Petco is a major national pet retailer with Vetco vet hospitals, grooming, training, and a retail footprint of 1,500+ locations focused on pet health and wellness.
Who Petco is best for: customers near Petco who want integrated vet and grooming services
Key pros:
- Vetco vet hospitals at many locations
- Strong online and in-store integration
- Good training and grooming services
- Decent online selection
Key cons:
- Fewer locations than PetSmart in some regions
- Less competitive Autoship discounts vs Chewy
PetSmart: Overview and Pros/Cons
PetSmart is America’s largest pet retail chain with 1,650+ locations, offering grooming, training, adoption events, and the industry’s widest in-store product selection.
Who PetSmart is best for: customers who want the most retail locations and widest in-store selection
Key pros:
- Most retail locations in US
- Strong grooming services
- Regular adoption events
- Wide product selection in-store
- Frequent promotions
Key cons:
- Vet services not as integrated as Petco’s Vetco
- Autoship less competitive than Chewy
Price Comparison: Petco vs PetSmart
Price is often the deciding factor when comparing Petco and PetSmart. Petco charges approximately Competitive retail pricing, Repeat Delivery discounts, while PetSmart runs approximately Competitive retail pricing, frequent sales.
Factor in the total value delivered—not just sticker price. A slightly more expensive option with better coverage, fewer exclusions, or superior customer service often delivers better value over the life of the policy or subscription.
When to Choose Petco
Choose Petco if:
- You prioritize customers near Petco who want integrated vet and grooming services
- Your pet or household situation matches their primary use case
- You prefer their specific pricing structure or feature set
- You’ve read positive reviews from others with similar situations
When to Choose PetSmart
Choose PetSmart if:
- You prioritize customers who want the most retail locations and widest in-store selection
- You want to try a different approach or platform
- Their customer support model appeals to you
- Specific features they offer are important to your situation
Other Alternatives Worth Considering
- Chewy: Best online pet retailer alternative to both
- Amazon Pet: Online convenience for Prime members
- Walmart Pet: Budget-focused alternative
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better overall—Petco or PetSmart?
Neither is universally better. Petco tends to suit customers near Petco who want integrated vet and grooming services while PetSmart is stronger for customers who want the most retail locations and widest in-store selection. The best choice depends on your specific situation.
Can I switch from Petco to PetSmart (or vice versa)?
Yes. Most subscriptions allow cancellation with reasonable notice. For insurance, ensure your new policy is active before canceling the old one. Check each provider’s cancellation policy to avoid unnecessary charges.
How do the prices compare long-term?
Initial pricing can be misleading. Compare total annual costs including any add-on fees, renewal rate increases, and out-of-pocket expenses. Both Petco and PetSmart may adjust pricing over time.
Do both Petco and PetSmart cover cats and dogs?
Coverage and product availability vary. Most pet services listed in this comparison support both dogs and cats, but always verify your specific pet’s eligibility before signing up.
Where can I read more customer reviews for Petco and PetSmart?
Check verified review platforms like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau. Reddit communities like r/puppy101 and r/dogs also have extensive user discussions about pet service providers.
*Affiliate Disclosure: GetPetPros.com participates in affiliate programs including Amazon Associates, Chewy’s affiliate program, and other pet product affiliate networks. We earn a small commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are based on independent research and editorial judgment.*