Petco vs PetSmart: Which Pet Retailer Truly Delivers for You?
Choosing between Petco or PetSmart isn’t just about location or price — it’s about finding the right partner in your pet’s health, happiness, and daily care. With thousands searching for “which is better: Petco or PetSmart?” every month, here’s the ultimate 2025 comparison to help you decide.
We’ll explore:
- 🛒 Product quality and selection
- ✂️ Grooming services
- 🩺 Veterinary care options
- 💸 Pricing and value
- 🌿 Ethical practices
- 🛍️ Online shopping experience
By the end, you’ll know exactly which pet retailer fits your needs — or whether a unique online alternative like Tail Waves is worth exploring.
🏪 Overview: Petco and PetSmart in 2025
| Feature | Petco | PetSmart |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1965 | 1986 |
| Stores | 1,500+ (US & Puerto Rico) | 1,650+ (North America) |
| Focus | Pet wellness, eco-products | Affordable care, community focus |
| Vet Services | Vetco Clinics | Banfield Pet Hospitals |
Are Petco and PetSmart the same company? No. They are competitors and operate independently.
🛍️ Product Variety & Brands
Petco:
- Premium pet food & exclusive brands (e.g. WholeHearted)
- Strong selection for reptiles, birds, and small mammals
- Emphasis on natural and organic options
PetSmart:
- Popular brands like Blue Buffalo and Hill’s
- Wider in-store variety, especially for fish & accessories
- Great value options for budget-conscious buyers
Verdict: Petco is great for health-first shopping; PetSmart wins for variety and pricing.
✂️ Grooming: Petco vs PetSmart Grooming Services
| Service | Petco | PetSmart |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Grooming | ✅ | ✅ |
| Breed-specific Cuts | ✅ | ✅ |
| Loyalty Perks | ✅ (Pals Rewards) | ✅ (Treats Program) |
| Mobile Grooming | ❌ | ✅ (select areas) |
| Appointment Availability | Moderate | High |
Winner: PetSmart offers more flexibility with mobile grooming and better availability.
🩺 Vet Services: Which Has Better Pet Healthcare?
Petco (Vetco Clinics):
- Affordable checkups, vaccinations & microchipping
- Walk-in convenience
PetSmart (Banfield Hospitals):
- Full-service care: dental, diagnostics, surgeries
- Wellness plans & in-store vet clinics
Winner: PetSmart for full-service veterinary care. Petco is better for basic wellness at low cost.
💸 Is Petco or PetSmart Cheaper?
| Product Type | Cheaper Option |
|---|---|
| Everyday Pet Supplies | PetSmart |
| Premium Pet Food | Tie |
| Repeat Delivery Discounts | Petco |
| Toys & Accessories | PetSmart |
Loyalty Programs:
- Petco Pals Rewards: Earn points, get personalized discounts
- PetSmart Treats: Points per dollar + free shipping perks
Verdict: PetSmart is more affordable overall, but Petco offers great value for regular buyers.
🛒 Online Shopping Experience
| Feature | Petco | PetSmart |
|---|---|---|
| Same-Day Delivery | ✅ | ✅ |
| Autoship Discounts | ✅ | ✅ |
| Website Speed | Good | Excellent |
| Curbside Pickup | ✅ | ✅ |
Verdict: Petco has better subscription deals. PetSmart’s website is slightly easier to navigate.
🌎 Sustainability & Ethics
- Petco: Emphasizes eco-friendly packaging, natural materials, and sustainable sourcing.
- PetSmart: Actively supports community adoption events and local shelters.
Winner: Petco for sustainability. PetSmart for local community impact.
🧑💬 Customer Satisfaction & Reviews
- PetSmart: Loved for friendly staff and grooming reliability.
- Petco: Recognized for wellness focus and specialty products.
Both have solid ratings across Yelp, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews.
Winner: Slight edge to PetSmart for in-store service and customer experience.
🎯 Final Verdict: Who Wins?
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Product Variety | Tie |
| Grooming | PetSmart |
| Vet Services | PetSmart |
| Price | PetSmart |
| Sustainability | Petco |
| Online Shopping | Tie |
| Customer Support | PetSmart |
Overall Winner: PetSmart for value and services. Petco is better for wellness-first shoppers.
🐾 Want Something Unique? Try Tail Waves
If you’re looking for something more personal than big-box pet stores, Tail Waves is your go-to for stylish, sustainable pet accessories.
- Handmade collars, leashes & pet toys
- Premium materials & natural treats
- USA shipping & quick support
👉 Explore our bestsellers now and see why Tail Waves is the pet accessory brand your pet deserves!
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Petco or PetSmart cheaper?
PetSmart is usually more affordable for supplies. Petco shines with discounts on repeat deliveries.
Are Petco and PetSmart the same company?
No. They are separate companies and competitors.
Who has better grooming: Petco or PetSmart?
PetSmart offers more grooming locations and mobile grooming in select areas, making it more convenient.
Does PetSmart have vets?
Yes, they partner with Banfield Pet Hospitals offering full-service veterinary care in many stores.
Which is better: Petco or PetSmart?
PetSmart is better for budget and services. Petco is ideal for wellness products and sustainability-focused buyers.
💬 Share Your Thoughts
Have you had a great experience at Petco or PetSmart? Let us know in the comments! And for more pet care tips and comparisons, check out the rest of our blog.
