What is the main difference between Petco and Petsmart?

The main difference is that Petco focuses on holistic health and wellness services like veterinary care and grooming, while PetSmart emphasizes a wider retail selection with in-store training classes and adoption events.

Which store offers better prices, Petco or Petsmart?

Neither consistently wins on price, but PetSmart often has lower everyday prices on food and litter, while Petco runs frequent promotions on premium brands, so comparing weekly ads is essential.

Are Petco and Petsmart owned by the same company?

No, Petco and Petsmart are separate companies, with Petco publicly traded since 2021 and Petsmart privately owned by BC Partners, so their loyalty programs and policies operate independently.

Can I use a Petsmart gift card at Petco?

No, you cannot use a Petsmart gift card at Petco because they are distinct retailers, but both chains sell their own branded gift cards redeemable only at their respective locations and websites.

Which store has better grooming services, Petco or Petsmart?

PetSmart provides more comprehensive grooming packages with add-ons like teeth brushing and nail filing, while Petco offers a la carte services and a calmer environment for anxious pets.

What is the biggest risk of buying live animals at Petco or Petsmart?

The biggest risk is purchasing a pet with undetected health issues, so both stores offer 30-day health guarantees, but you must get a vet exam within 48 hours to qualify for a refund.

Are Petco and Petsmart training classes compatible with each other?

No, training classes are not compatible because each store uses its own certified trainers and curriculum, so you must complete a full program at one retailer to earn a certification.

Which store is better for same-day delivery, Petco or Petsmart?

Petco is better for same-day delivery because it offers delivery in under two hours through its own app and DoorDash, while Petsmart relies on third-party services with longer windows in most regions.

Can I return an item bought at Petsmart to a Petco location?

No, you cannot return a Petsmart item to Petco because return policies are store-specific, so you must bring the receipt and original packaging back to the original retailer within 60 days.

How do I switch my auto-ship order from Petsmart to Petco?

To switch your auto-ship order, you must cancel the subscription in your Petsmart account first, then create a new recurring delivery on Petco.com, ensuring you re-enter your payment and pet profile details.

Difference Between

Difference Between Petco and Petsmart

Written byNex Virox Team

Editorial Team

Reviewed byVarshal Nirbhavane

Senior SEO & Organic Growth Professional · 5+ years

Published: September 9, 202620 min read

Quick answer

The main difference between Petco and Petsmart is that Petco focuses on a broader wellness and veterinary-care model, while Petsmart emphasizes grooming, training, and adoption services. Petco is a pet-supply retailer with in-store vet hospitals and a holistic health approach, while Petsmart is a pet-specialty chain offering salon, training, and pet-hotel services.

Key takeaways

Core distinction: Petco prioritizes holistic health and veterinary services, while Petsmart emphasizes grooming, training, and adoption partnerships.
How each works: Petco operates in-store vet clinics with same-day urgent care, whereas Petsmart hosts Banfield hospitals and standalone dog training facilities.
Cost and services: Petsmart generally offers lower everyday pricing on supplies, but Petco provides more premium nutrition and wellness subscription options.
Best-fit use case: Choose Petco for specialized diets and medical needs, but select Petsmart for routine grooming and puppy obedience classes.
Most common mistake: Shoppers assume identical pricing and services, yet loyalty rewards, product assortments, and return policies differ significantly between both retailers.

Table of Contents18 sections

Difference Between Petco and Petsmart: Comparison Table

Aspect	Petco	Petsmart
Definition	Petco is a privately held American pet retailer founded in 1965 in San Diego, California.	PetSmart is a publicly traded American pet retailer founded in 1986 in Phoenix, Arizona.
Purpose	Petco aims to provide premium pet products, veterinary services, and grooming under one roof.	PetSmart focuses on broad pet supplies, adoption events, and in-store training classes for pets.
Core Mechanism	Petco operates over 1,500 stores plus an online marketplace with same-day delivery in 75 markets.	PetSmart runs over 1,600 stores and offers online ordering with curbside pickup at most locations.
Ownership Structure	Petco is owned by private equity firms including CVC Capital Partners and Canada Pension Plan.	PetSmart is owned by BC Partners, a global private equity firm, after a 2015 buyout.
Store Count	Petco maintains roughly 1,500 retail locations across the United States, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.	PetSmart operates about 1,650 stores in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.
Veterinary Services	Petco offers full-service veterinary hospitals inside many stores, branded as Vetco Total Care.	PetSmart hosts Banfield Pet Hospital clinics inside most of its larger retail locations.
Grooming Offerings	Petco provides self-serve dog wash stations and full grooming with online appointment booking.	PetSmart offers full-service grooming salons and a separate grooming training academy.
Training Classes	Petco runs group obedience classes using positive reinforcement methods for puppies and adults.	PetSmart offers group and private training with AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy certification programs.
Live Animal Sales	Petco sells small animals like hamsters, guinea pigs, birds, reptiles, and fish in most stores.	PetSmart sells small animals, reptiles, birds, and fish, but never sells dogs or cats.
Adoption Programs	Petco partners with local shelters for in-store adoption events, typically held on weekends.	PetSmart hosts adoption centers in stores, partnering with over 4,000 rescue organizations.
Private Label Brands	Petco sells its own brands: WholeHearted (food), Reddy (gear), and You & Me (accessories).	PetSmart sells exclusive brands: Simply Nourish (food), Top Fin (aquatics), and Grreat Choice.
Price Positioning	Petco generally prices premium brands slightly higher, with frequent 20-30% discount promotions.	PetSmart typically offers competitive pricing, with weekly sales and a price-match guarantee.
Loyalty Program	Petco’s Vital Care Rewards gives 8% back in points, plus free vet exam and grooming discounts.	PetSmart’s Treats Rewards provides 8 points per dollar, redeemable for store credit or services.
Delivery Speed	Petco offers same-day delivery in 75 metro areas, typically within 2-4 hours on orders over $35.	PetSmart provides same-day delivery via DoorDash in select cities, usually in 1-3 hours.
Subscription Service	Petco offers Repeat Delivery with 5% off and flexible scheduling for food and litter refills.	PetSmart has autoship with 5% discount, plus free shipping on orders over $49.
Mobile App	Petco’s app includes vet appointment booking, grooming scheduling, and a digital loyalty card.	PetSmart’s app features store locator, barcode scanning, and exclusive app-only coupons.
Pharmacy Services	Petco operates a licensed online pet pharmacy with prescription medications and compounded drugs.	PetSmart does not operate its own pharmacy, but Banfield clinics fill prescriptions on-site.
Pet Insurance	Petco partners with Nationwide to offer accident and illness coverage for dogs and cats.	PetSmart does not sell insurance directly, but Banfield offers wellness plans.
Aquatics Section	Petco stocks a wide range of saltwater fish, corals, and live plants, with expert staff advice.	PetSmart focuses on freshwater fish, with a smaller saltwater selection in most stores.
Reptile Habitats	Petco carries larger terrariums, heat lamps, and specialized UVB lighting for reptiles.	PetSmart offers starter kits and basic supplies for common reptiles like bearded dragons.
Bird Supplies	Petco sells larger cages, foraging toys, and a broader variety of bird food pellets.	PetSmart provides standard cages, seed mixes, and basic toys for parakeets and cockatiels.
Small Pet Housing	Petco offers modular habitat systems like CritterTrail for hamsters and guinea pigs.	PetSmart stocks similar habitats, plus more bedding options like paper and aspen shavings.
Dog Food Brands	Petco carries premium brands like Orijen, Acana, and Blue Buffalo, plus its WholeHearted line.	PetSmart stocks Purina, Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and its Simply Nourish brand.
Cat Litter Options	Petco offers clumping, crystal, and pine litters from brands like Tidy Cats and Fresh Step.	PetSmart provides similar litter types, plus its exclusive Grreat Choice budget line.
Grooming Safety	Petco requires groomers to complete a 10-week academy and follow strict safety protocols.	PetSmart groomers finish a 12-week program, with a 4:1 groomer-to-dog ratio during peak times.
Return Policy	Petco accepts returns within 60 days with a receipt, offering full refunds or store credit.	PetSmart allows returns within 60 days, but opened food and treats are only exchangeable.
Store Format	Petco stores average 15,000 square feet, with a modern, open layout and natural lighting.	PetSmart stores average 18,000 square feet, featuring a warehouse-style layout with high shelves.
Employee Expertise	Petco hires specialists in aquatics, reptiles, and nutrition, with ongoing product training.	PetSmart trains general associates across all departments, with a focus on customer service.
Online Reviews	Petco receives mixed reviews, averaging 3.5 stars on Trustpilot, with praise for vet services.	PetSmart scores 3.8 stars on Trustpilot, with positive feedback on grooming and adoption events.
Best-Fit Scenario	Petco suits owners needing vet care, premium food, and expert advice on exotic pets.	PetSmart fits budget shoppers wanting adoption events, training classes, and broad product selection.

What Is Petco?

Petco is a leading American pet retailer selling food, supplies, and services across more than 1,500 stores. It operates grooming salons, veterinary clinics, and adoption centers. Petco exists to improve pet wellness through convenient omnichannel shopping, including same-day delivery and in-store pickup options.

Definition of Petco

Petco Health and Wellness Company, Inc. is a publicly traded specialty retailer (NASDAQ: WOOF) that provides pet food, accessories, and healthcare services. Its business model integrates physical retail locations with digital commerce and recurring subscription offerings. The company emphasizes preventive care through veterinary partnerships, grooming, and nutrition counseling for dogs, cats, fish, reptiles, and small animals.

Key Characteristics of Petco

Characteristic	What It Means in Practice
Omnichannel retail	Shoppers can buy online, pick up in-store within hours, or get same-day delivery through partnered couriers.
Veterinary services	Over 400 full-service Vetco clinics operate inside stores, offering vaccinations, exams, and urgent care.
Grooming salons	Professional groomers provide baths, haircuts, nail trims, and breed-specific styling for dogs and cats.
Subscription model	Repeat Delivery auto-ships food and litter monthly, with discounts up to 35% for enrolled members.
Adoption program	In-store adoption centers partner with local shelters to facilitate pet adoptions, averaging 400,000 yearly.
Nutrition focus	Stores stock premium and prescription diets, with trained nutritionists available for consultations.
Live animal sales	Fish, reptiles, birds, and small mammals are sold with habitat setups and care guidance.
Rewards loyalty	Vital Care Premier membership costs $19 monthly, offering exam discounts and 20% off food.
Private label brands	WholeHearted and Reddy lines provide budget-friendly alternatives to national brands.
Petco services app	Mobile platform manages appointments, refills, vaccination records, and training class bookings.

Common Examples of Petco

Petco Park – The San Diego Padres' stadium, named under a 22-year naming rights agreement with the retailer.
Vetco Total Care – A full-service veterinary clinic brand operating inside select Petco locations nationwide.
WholeHearted – Petco's exclusive private-label pet food line, offering grain-free and limited-ingredient recipes.
Reddy – A premium dog gear brand sold exclusively at Petco, featuring leashes, beds, and travel accessories.
Petco Foundation – A nonprofit arm that has granted over $300 million to animal welfare organizations since 1999.
Repeat Delivery – Petco's subscription service that schedules automatic shipments of food, litter, and treats.
Petco Unleashed – A smaller-format store concept focused on urban neighborhoods with limited square footage.
Adopt Love – An annual campaign running every September that waives adoption fees at partner shelters.
Petco Grooming Academy – An in-house training program certifying groomers through 400 hours of hands-on instruction.
Same-Day Delivery – A service available in 75 metro areas, delivering orders within four hours via DoorDash.

Advantages and Limitations of Petco

Advantages	Limitations
Wide product selection spans food, toys, habitats, and healthcare across all pet types.	Prices run 10-20% higher than big-box competitors like Walmart or Chewy for identical items.
In-store veterinary clinics provide convenient access to preventive care without separate appointments.	Vetco clinics offer limited hours and may not handle complex surgeries or overnight emergencies.
Grooming services are available on-site, saving time compared to standalone salons.	Grooming quality varies by location, with some customer complaints about inconsistent results.
Adoption events help reduce shelter overcrowding and facilitate thousands of pet placements yearly.	Live animal sales can encourage impulse purchases without proper preparation from buyers.
Subscription discounts of up to 35% make recurring purchases more affordable for regular shoppers.	Membership fees add up, and auto-shipments can be difficult to cancel without customer service contact.
Nutritional expertise from trained staff helps pet owners select appropriate diets for specific health needs.	Staff knowledge varies widely between locations, with some employees lacking deep product expertise.
Same-day delivery provides urgent access to food, medication, or supplies within hours.	Delivery fees can exceed $10, and availability is limited outside major metropolitan areas.
Rewards program offers points on all purchases, redeemable for discounts on future orders.	Points expire after 12 months of inactivity, and exclusions apply to certain services and products.
Private-label brands offer comparable quality to national brands at lower price points.	Exclusive brands limit comparison shopping, and some recipes have faced recall or formulation changes.
Nationwide footprint with over 1,500 locations ensures physical access in most U.S. cities.	Store closures have occurred in underperforming markets, reducing access in rural or smaller towns.

What Is Petsmart?

PetSmart is the largest specialty pet retailer in North America, operating over 1,500 stores across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. It provides pet food, supplies, grooming, training, and veterinary services through its in-store Banfield hospitals. The company exists to simplify pet ownership through comprehensive, one-stop retail and service offerings.

Definition of Petsmart

PetSmart is a publicly traded, big-box specialty retailer that sells companion animal products and services, including food, toys, habitats, and live pets. Its business model integrates retail sales with high-margin services like grooming, training, and boarding. PetSmart differentiates itself through its scale, private-label brands (e.g., Simply Nourish), and adoption events with local shelters.

Key Characteristics of Petsmart

Characteristic	What It Means in Practice
Store footprint	Over 1,500 physical locations, making it the most accessible pet retailer in North America.
Service mix	In-store grooming, dog training, and pet boarding generate recurring revenue beyond product sales.
Live animal sales	Sells fish, birds, reptiles, and small mammals, which attracts hobbyists but raises ethical scrutiny.
Private brands	Owns exclusive labels like Top Fin and Grreat Choice, offering budget alternatives to national brands.
Vet partnerships	Houses Banfield Pet Hospital locations inside many stores, providing convenient preventive care.
Adoption program	Partners with shelters to host adoption events, placing over 600,000 pets annually.
Omnichannel reach	Offers same-day delivery via DoorDash and curbside pickup, competing with e-commerce pureplays.
Pricing strategy	Uses frequent promotions and a PetSmart Rewards program to drive loyalty and repeat visits.
Store experience	Focuses on interactive displays and pet-friendly aisles to encourage longer dwell times.
Corporate structure	Privately held since 2015 after a leveraged buyout, which limits public financial transparency.

Common Examples of Petsmart

Grooming salon – Full-service baths, haircuts, and nail trims for dogs and cats, booked via app.
Dog training classes – Group and private sessions covering obedience, agility, and behavior modification.
PetSmart Charities – Nonprofit arm that funds adoption programs and emergency pet relief.
Banfield hospital – Full-service veterinary clinic embedded inside many large-format stores.
Pet boarding – Overnight stays in climate-controlled kennels with webcam access for owners.
Simply Nourish food – Exclusive grain-free and limited-ingredient recipes sold only at PetSmart.
Reptile habitat setup – Complete terrarium kits with lighting, heating, and substrate for beginners.
Fish department – Freshwater and saltwater aquatics with live plants and water-testing services.
Adoption weekend – Weekly in-store shelter partnerships that match homeless pets with new owners.
Same-day delivery – DoorDash partnership delivering food and litter to doors in under two hours.

Advantages and Limitations of Petsmart

Advantages	Limitations
One-stop convenience for food, services, and supplies under a single roof.	Higher prices on many items compared to discount retailers like Walmart or Chewy.
Professional grooming and training are available without separate appointments.	Live animal sales face criticism from animal welfare groups over sourcing and impulse buys.
Widespread physical presence enables immediate pickup and in-person advice.	Limited selection of premium, independent brands compared to boutique pet stores.
Strong adoption partnerships boost community goodwill and foot traffic.	Inconsistent service quality across stores due to high employee turnover.
Integrated vet clinics offer preventive care during routine shopping trips.	Boarding and grooming services often require advance booking and can be costly.
Rewards program provides meaningful discounts on recurring purchases.	Private-label foods may lack the nutritional research backing of established brands.
Large store format allows for extensive product testing and demonstrations.	Online ordering experience lags behind Chewy's seamless autoship model.
PetSmart Charities amplifies corporate social responsibility efforts.	Debt load from the 2015 buyout limits investment in new technology.
Same-day delivery matches e-commerce speed for urgent needs.	Store closures in rural areas leave many regions without access to services.
Adoption events create emotional connections that drive repeat visits.	Petco offers a more curated premium assortment in many urban markets.

Similarities Between Petco and Petsmart

Shared Aspect	How Petco and Petsmart Are Alike
Core Purpose	Petco and Petsmart both operate as national pet retail chains, selling food, supplies, and live animals to pet owners.
Product Range	Both Petco and Petsmart stock over 10,000 pet-related items, covering dogs, cats, fish, birds, reptiles, and small mammals.
Live Animal Sales	Petco and Petsmart both sell live fish, birds, reptiles, and small pets, with adoption events for dogs and cats.
In-Store Services	Both Petco and Petsmart offer grooming, training classes, and self-serve dog wash stations at most locations.
Veterinary Care	Petco and Petsmart both host full-service veterinary hospitals inside many of their larger stores.
Loyalty Programs	Petco and Petsmart each run free rewards programs that give points, birthday perks, and exclusive member discounts.
Online Shopping	Both Petco and Petsmart operate e-commerce websites with home delivery, curbside pickup, and auto-ship subscriptions.
Mobile Apps	Petco and Petsmart both provide mobile apps for ordering, tracking purchases, managing prescriptions, and accessing rewards.
Private Brands	Petco and Petsmart each sell their own exclusive pet food and supply brands, offering budget-friendly alternatives to national labels.
Adoption Partners	Both Petco and Petsmart partner with local shelters and rescue groups to host weekly in-store pet adoption events.
Grooming Standards	Petco and Petsmart both require professional groomer certification and follow similar safety protocols for bathing and clipping.
Training Methods	Petco and Petsmart both use positive reinforcement techniques in their group obedience and behavior training classes.
Store Formats	Both Petco and Petsmart operate large-format superstores averaging 15,000 to 20,000 square feet in suburban shopping centers.
Nationwide Reach	Petco and Petsmart each have over 1,500 physical locations across the United States, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.
Employment Scale	Petco and Petsmart both employ tens of thousands of workers, including store associates, groomers, trainers, and veterinarians.
Pet Food Selection	Both Petco and Petsmart carry major brands like Hill's, Royal Canin, Purina, and Blue Buffalo, plus grain-free and prescription diets.
Aquatics Section	Petco and Petsmart both maintain large aquarium departments with freshwater and saltwater fish, plants, and tank equipment.
Small Pet Habitat	Both Petco and Petsmart sell cages, bedding, toys, and food for hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, and ferrets.
Reptile Supplies	Petco and Petsmart both offer terrariums, heat lamps, substrate, and live feeder insects for lizards, snakes, and turtles.
Seasonal Promotions	Petco and Petsmart both run holiday sales on pet costumes, toys, and treats for Halloween, Christmas, and National Pet Day.
Price Matching	Both Petco and Petsmart offer price matching on identical items from major online competitors, subject to store policies.
Return Policy	Petco and Petsmart both accept returns within 30 days with a receipt, offering refunds or store credit for unused items.
Pet Prescriptions	Both Petco and Petsmart fill veterinary prescriptions for flea, tick, heartworm, and other medications through their pharmacy services.
Community Events	Petco and Petsmart both host free community events like pet photo sessions, microchipping clinics, and educational workshops.
Delivery Speed	Petco and Petsmart both offer same-day delivery on many items through third-party services like DoorDash and Instacart.
Subscription Savings	Both Petco and Petsmart provide recurring delivery subscriptions that give 5% to 10% discounts on regular orders.
Gift Cards	Petco and Petsmart both sell physical and digital gift cards that can be redeemed in-store or online for any product or service.
Pet Insurance	Both Petco and Petsmart offer third-party pet insurance plans for accident, illness, and wellness coverage at checkout.
Sustainability Efforts	Petco and Petsmart both sell eco-friendly toys, biodegradable waste bags, and recycled-material bedding products.
Long-Term Growth	Petco and Petsmart both continue expanding their store count and service offerings, maintaining stable market leadership for over 30 years.

Petco or Petsmart: Which Should You Choose?

Your choice hinges on which services you need most: Petco wins for veterinary care and same-day delivery, while Petsmart dominates grooming and training classes. For most pet owners, the deciding factor is whether you prioritize medical convenience or behavioral services.

When to Use Petco

Choose Petco when your pet needs urgent vet care or you require same-day delivery of food and medication. Its in-store full-service hospitals handle vaccines, dental cleanings, and sick visits without appointments. Budget-conscious shoppers also benefit from frequent 30% off subscription discounts on recurring essentials.

When to Use Petsmart

Choose Petsmart when your dog needs professional grooming or you want structured obedience training. Its 3,000+ certified groomers offer breed-specific cuts, while group classes cover puppy basics to advanced agility. Petsmart also runs a more generous Banfield-integrated wellness plan, bundling unlimited vet visits with routine care for one monthly fee.

Common Misconceptions About Petco and Petsmart

Common Myth	The Reality
Petco and Petsmart are the same company, just with different names.	Petco and PetSmart are separate, competing corporations; Petco is based in San Diego, while PetSmart is headquartered in Phoenix.
PetSmart owns Petco because they bought them out years ago.	PetSmart has never acquired Petco; both remain independent retailers, with Petco publicly traded on NASDAQ and PetSmart privately held by BC Partners.
Both stores sell the exact same brands and products.	Petco carries exclusive lines like Reddy and WholeHearted, while PetSmart stocks only its own brands, including Simply Nourish and Authority.
Petco and PetSmart have identical return policies for pet supplies.	Petco offers a 30-day return window, whereas PetSmart allows returns within 60 days for most unopened items.
You can adopt a pet at any Petco or PetSmart location nationwide.	Neither chain operates its own shelters; adoption events depend on local rescue partners, so availability varies by store and week.
PetSmart's grooming services are cheaper than Petco's across the board.	PetSmart grooming prices vary by location and dog size, but Petco frequently matches or undercuts PetSmart with its monthly grooming membership.
Petco does not sell live animals, only PetSmart does.	Both Petco and PetSmart sell small animals like hamsters, guinea pigs, and fish, though neither sells dogs or cats.
PetSmart Banfield vet clinics are owned by PetSmart itself.	Banfield Pet Hospital is a separate company that leases space inside PetSmart stores; PetSmart holds a minority stake but does not operate the clinics.
Petco's vet services are cheaper than PetSmart's Banfield clinics.	Petco's in-store Vetco clinics offer limited preventive care, while Banfield provides full medical services, making direct price comparisons misleading.
Both chains accept all pet insurance plans at their vet clinics.	Banfield and Vetco clinics bill you directly; you submit claims to your insurer yourself, and coverage depends on your specific policy.
Petco's rewards program gives you cash back on every single purchase.	Petco's Vital Care Rewards gives 8% back in points, but only on qualifying consumables, not on all items like leashes or tanks.
PetSmart's treats membership offers unlimited free grooming.	PetSmart Treats members earn points toward free grooming, but they still pay full price for each session unless redeeming accumulated points.
Petco and PetSmart both price-match each other's online prices.	PetSmart price-matches its own website only, while Petco matches select competitors, but neither guarantees matching the other's in-store prices.
PetSmart's stores are always larger than Petco's locations.	PetSmart superstores average 18,000 square feet, but Petco's newer Petco Unleashed stores reach 20,000 square feet in many markets.
Petco only sells pet food and supplies, not services.	Petco operates full-service grooming, training, and vet care at most locations, rivaling PetSmart's service lineup.
PetSmart does not sell live fish, only Petco does.	Both PetSmart and Petco maintain live fish departments, though species selection varies significantly by store size and region.
Petco's private-label food is made by the same manufacturer as PetSmart's.	Petco's WholeHearted is made by Diamond Pet Foods, while PetSmart's Simply Nourish is produced by Simmons Pet Food, so formulations differ.
Both chains offer same-day delivery in every city they serve.	Same-day delivery depends on local courier partnerships; many rural Petco and PetSmart stores only offer standard shipping.
PetSmart's training classes are cheaper than Petco's group sessions.	PetSmart group classes start around $129 for six weeks, while Petco charges $119 for similar six-week group courses, making Petco slightly cheaper.
Petco does not sell birds, but PetSmart does.	Both Petco and PetSmart sell parakeets, cockatiels, and finches in select states, though availability is banned in some cities like New York.
PetSmart's adoption fees are always lower than Petco's.	Adoption fees are set by independent rescue partners at both chains, so fees range from $50 to $400 regardless of which store hosts the event.
Petco's grooming includes nail trimming for free with every bath.	Petco charges $12 to $18 for nail trims unless you buy a full grooming package, and PetSmart similarly charges extra for this add-on.
Both retailers sell prescription pet food without a vet prescription.	Petco and PetSmart both require a valid veterinary prescription for therapeutic diets like Hill's Prescription Diet or Royal Canin Veterinary.
PetSmart's website and Petco's website have the same prices for identical items.	Identical items often differ by 5% to 15% between PetSmart.com and Petco.com due to separate vendor agreements and promotional calendars.
Petco's stores close earlier than PetSmart on weekends.	Most Petco locations close at 9 PM and PetSmart at 9 PM too, but individual franchise and neighborhood stores set their own hours.
PetSmart does not sell reptiles, only Petco does.	Both PetSmart and Petco sell leopard geckos, bearded dragons, and corn snakes in states where reptile sales are legal.
Petco's annual wellness plans cover emergency visits at any vet.	Petco's Vital Care covers preventive care only at Vetco clinics; emergency treatment at outside vets is never included in either chain's plans.
PetSmart's grooming salon accepts walk-ins at every store.	Most PetSmart salons require appointments booked online or by phone; walk-in availability depends on groomer staffing that day.
Petco and PetSmart both donate the same percentage of profits to animal charities.	Petco's foundation gives about 4% of pretax profits, while PetSmart Charities donates roughly 2% of profits, so their giving levels differ.
You can use PetSmart gift cards at Petco stores and vice versa.	Petco gift cards are redeemable only at Petco, and PetSmart gift cards work only at PetSmart; the two retailers share no gift card network.

Conclusion

Difference Between Petco and Petsmart comes down to services: Petco prioritizes veterinary care and grooming, while Petsmart excels in training and adoption events. Choose Petco for medical needs and wellness plans. Choose Petsmart for behavioral classes and rescue partnerships. Both offer quality supplies, but their core strengths differ clearly.

FAQs on Difference Between Petco and Petsmart

What is the main difference between Petco and Petsmart?: The main difference is that Petco focuses on holistic health and wellness services like veterinary care and grooming, while PetSmart emphasizes a wider retail selection with in-store training classes and adoption events.
Which store offers better prices, Petco or Petsmart?: Neither consistently wins on price, but PetSmart often has lower everyday prices on food and litter, while Petco runs frequent promotions on premium brands, so comparing weekly ads is essential.
Are Petco and Petsmart owned by the same company?: No, Petco and Petsmart are separate companies, with Petco publicly traded since 2021 and Petsmart privately owned by BC Partners, so their loyalty programs and policies operate independently.
Can I use a Petsmart gift card at Petco?: No, you cannot use a Petsmart gift card at Petco because they are distinct retailers, but both chains sell their own branded gift cards redeemable only at their respective locations and websites.
Which store has better grooming services, Petco or Petsmart?: PetSmart provides more comprehensive grooming packages with add-ons like teeth brushing and nail filing, while Petco offers a la carte services and a calmer environment for anxious pets.
What is the biggest risk of buying live animals at Petco or Petsmart?: The biggest risk is purchasing a pet with undetected health issues, so both stores offer 30-day health guarantees, but you must get a vet exam within 48 hours to qualify for a refund.
Are Petco and Petsmart training classes compatible with each other?: No, training classes are not compatible because each store uses its own certified trainers and curriculum, so you must complete a full program at one retailer to earn a certification.
Which store is better for same-day delivery, Petco or Petsmart?: Petco is better for same-day delivery because it offers delivery in under two hours through its own app and DoorDash, while Petsmart relies on third-party services with longer windows in most regions.
Can I return an item bought at Petsmart to a Petco location?: No, you cannot return a Petsmart item to Petco because return policies are store-specific, so you must bring the receipt and original packaging back to the original retailer within 60 days.
How do I switch my auto-ship order from Petsmart to Petco?: To switch your auto-ship order, you must cancel the subscription in your Petsmart account first, then create a new recurring delivery on Petco.com, ensuring you re-enter your payment and pet profile details.