Chewy vs PetSmart Online in 2026: Which Is Better?
Choosing between Chewy and PetSmart Online 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: Chewy wins on online price and service. PetSmart wins when you need in-store access, live pets, grooming, or training classes.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Criteria | Chewy | PetSmart Online |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free shipping $49+, Autoship 5–35% | Free shipping $49+, varying promotions |
| Coverage/Features | Autoship, 24/7 vet chat, pharmacy, massive selection | in-store pickup, grooming booking, training, live animals |
| Best For | online shoppers who want the best deal and service | customers who use PetSmart’s in-store services and want online convenience |
| Availability | Nationwide | Nationwide |
| Customer Support | 24/7 phone, chat, email | 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 | 4.8/5 | 4.1/5 |
Chewy: Overview and Pros/Cons
Chewy dominates online pet retail with the widest selection, best Autoship discounts, 24/7 vet chat, and outstanding customer service reputation.
Who Chewy is best for: online shoppers who want the best deal and service
Key pros:
- Best Autoship discounts in industry
- 24/7 vet chat
- Pharmacy and prescription delivery
- Incredible customer service
- Widest selection
Key cons:
- No physical presence
- Prices on non-Autoship can be comparable to PetSmart
PetSmart Online: Overview and Pros/Cons
PetSmart Online lets customers shop for supplies, book grooming appointments, register for training classes, and buy live pets for in-store pickup.
Who PetSmart Online is best for: customers who use PetSmart’s in-store services and want online convenience
Key pros:
- Large retail presence for returns and pickup
- Grooming and training integration
- Live animals available
- Frequent in-store promotions
Key cons:
- Less competitive Autoship pricing than Chewy
- Smaller online-only selection
- No 24/7 vet chat
Price Comparison: Chewy vs PetSmart Online
Price is often the deciding factor when comparing Chewy and PetSmart Online. Chewy charges approximately Free shipping $49+, Autoship 5–35%, while PetSmart Online runs approximately Free shipping $49+, varying promotions.
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 Chewy
Choose Chewy if:
- You prioritize online shoppers who want the best deal and service
- 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 Online
Choose PetSmart Online if:
- You prioritize customers who use PetSmart’s in-store services and want online convenience
- 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
- Petco Online: PetSmart’s direct brick-and-mortar competitor
- Amazon Pet: Convenience shopping for Prime members
- Chewy vs Petco: Head-to-head of two leading options
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better overall—Chewy or PetSmart Online?
Neither is universally better. Chewy tends to suit online shoppers who want the best deal and service while PetSmart Online is stronger for customers who use PetSmart’s in-store services and want online convenience. The best choice depends on your specific situation.
Can I switch from Chewy to PetSmart Online (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 Chewy and PetSmart Online may adjust pricing over time.
Do both Chewy and PetSmart Online 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 Chewy and PetSmart Online?
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.*