Introduction: Petco vs PetSmart in 2025

When it comes to shopping for your pets in the U.S., two names always stand out — Petco and PetSmart. Both are nationwide leaders in pet care, offering food, toys, grooming, vet services, and adoption programs. But if you’re wondering which store is better in 2025, you’re not alone.

With rising costs, shifting customer expectations, and new subscription programs, many pet parents are asking:

• Are Petco and PetSmart the same company?
• Which store has cheaper prices?
• Who offers better services and loyalty rewards?

This detailed Petco vs PetSmart comparison for 2025 breaks down the key differences in pricing, services, memberships, and overall shopping experience. By the end, you’ll know exactly which store is the better fit for you and your pet’s needs.

Are Petco and PetSmart the Same?

Many U.S. pet parents still wonder: are Petco and PetSmart the same company? The answer is no — they are two completely separate corporations.

Petco was founded in 1965 in San Diego, California. Today, it operates over 1,500 locations across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Petco focuses on premium pet foods, health services, and its Vital Care subscription program.

PetSmart was founded later, in 1986 in Phoenix, Arizona. With 1,660+ stores, it is currently the largest pet retailer in North America. PetSmart is known for offering competitive pricing, adoption events, and partnerships with Banfield Pet Hospitals inside many stores.

Ownership Differences

• Petco is a publicly traded company listed on NASDAQ under the ticker symbol WOOF.
• PetSmart is privately owned by investment groups, with a major stake held by BC Partners.

👉 Bottom line: Petco and PetSmart are not the same company. While both compete in the same space, their ownership, strategy, and customer offerings are very different.

What’s the Difference Between Petco and PetSmart?

While both retailers serve U.S. pet parents with food, supplies, and services, here’s a side-by-side breakdown of the key differences:

Bottom line: Choose Petco for a health-focused, premium experience, and PetSmart if affordability and in-store services matter most.

Petco vs PetSmart: Store Experience & Locations

Both Petco and PetSmart have a strong presence across the United States, but the in-store experience can feel different depending on where you shop.

Store Count & Reach (2025)

• Petco: ~1,500 locations in the U.S., Mexico, and Puerto Rico.
• PetSmart: ~1,660 locations across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico.

Source: Company reports (2025)

In-Store Experience

• Petco: Stores often highlight health and wellness with on-site vet clinics, vaccination services, and specialized nutrition sections.
• PetSmart: Known for adoption events, large aquatics/reptile sections, and a bigger variety of pet habitats and accessories.

Pet Adoption

• Petco: Partners with the Petco Foundation and local rescues for adoption fairs.
• PetSmart: Runs the PetSmart Charities program, which has helped more than 10 million pets get adopted since 1994.

Store Atmosphere

• Petco: Quieter, more health-focused shopping layout.
• PetSmart: Livelier, event-driven with frequent promotions and adoption days.

Key Takeaway: If you want a health-focused, vet-supported store visit, Petco may feel like a better fit. If you enjoy a community vibe with adoption events and wider product variety, PetSmart delivers that experience.

Pricing Breakdown 2025: Which is Cheaper?

One of the most common questions pet owners ask is: “Is Petco or PetSmart cheaper?” Based on 2025 price checks, PetSmart generally comes out slightly more affordable on everyday essentials, while Petco provides better value through memberships and health-focused bundles.

Loyalty & Subscription Programs

• Petco Vital Care: $19.99/month – includes 10% off nutrition, unlimited vet visits (in select stores), and grooming perks.
• PetSmart Treats: Free – points on every purchase, birthday discounts, and rotating coupons.

Key Takeaway: PetSmart is cheaper on most everyday pet supplies, while Petco offers better healthcare and prescription value. If you’re a frequent buyer of premium food or need vet care, Petco’s Vital Care plan could offset costs in the long run.

Services: Grooming, Training & Vet Care Compared

Both Petco and PetSmart go beyond retail by offering services like grooming, training, and veterinary care. However, their offerings differ in availability, pricing, and specialization.

Quick Summary: If you want affordable preventive vet care and premium grooming, Petco is a strong choice. If you need full-service veterinary hospitals or more training options, PetSmart is the better pick.

🐾 Insurance Comparison: Petco vs PetSmart

When it comes to pet health, both Petco and PetSmart offer ways to protect your furry family members. But their approaches are slightly different—Petco focuses on wellness and routine care with its Vital Care plan, while PetSmart partners with Banfield Pet Hospital and Fetch Pet Insurance for more traditional insurance coverage.

🔹 Petco Vital Care (Insurance Alternative)

• Monthly membership plan starting around $19.99.
• Includes routine vet exams, vaccinations, discounts on grooming, and nutrition support.
• Great for pet parents who want predictable monthly costs and savings on everyday care.
• Not a full insurance policy, but covers the basics that most pets need regularly.

🔹 PetSmart Insurance Options

• PetSmart doesn’t run its own plan but partners with Banfield Pet Hospital (Optimum Wellness Plans) and Fetch Pet Insurance.
• Banfield plans cover preventive vet visits, dental cleanings, and lab tests.
• Fetch insurance works like traditional pet insurance—helping cover accidents, illnesses, surgeries, and prescriptions.
• Costs vary by breed, age, and location but typically start around $20–$30/month.

📊 Petco vs PetSmart Insurance Comparison Table

So, Which Insurance Is Better?

• Choose Petco Vital Care if you want routine checkups + grooming savings at a budget-friendly monthly cost.
• Choose PetSmart’s Banfield or Fetch Insurance if you want wider coverage for emergencies, accidents, or chronic illnesses.

👉 Bottom line: Petco is cheaper for day-to-day wellness, while PetSmart offers stronger protection for unexpected vet bills.

Product Selection & In-Store Experience

When it comes to variety, both Petco and PetSmart stock thousands of pet products — but their focus areas differ slightly. Here’s how the shopping experience compares in 2025:

Quick Summary: If you prioritize premium and natural products, Petco is the better fit. For a broader budget range and in-store events, PetSmart stands out.

💲 So, Which is Cheaper – Petco or PetSmart?

Price is one of the biggest factors for pet parents choosing between these two giants. While both stores run promotions and loyalty rewards, there are some noticeable differences:

• PetSmart usually has lower everyday prices on popular dog and cat food brands, toys, and grooming bundles.
• Petco tends to be slightly more expensive upfront, but their Vital Care membership can help you save significantly on vet visits, grooming, and nutrition support.
• Discounts & Rewards – PetSmart’s Treats program often gives instant savings on food and toys, while Petco’s Vital Care offers long-term benefits for multi-pet households or frequent vet visits.

👉 Bottom line:

• If you’re shopping mainly for food, toys, and quick essentials, PetSmart is usually cheaper.
• If you need regular vet visits, grooming, or wellness care, Petco’s Vital Care membership may save you more in the long run.

Online Shopping, Delivery & Subscription Services

Both Petco and PetSmart have invested heavily in online shopping and delivery to meet the needs of U.S. pet parents. Here’s how they compare in 2025:

Quick Summary: Petco’s online services appeal to pet owners looking for health and wellness benefits, while PetSmart focuses more on discounts and affordability. Both provide same-day delivery and easy in-store pickup, making shopping convenient nationwide.

Loyalty Programs & Membership Benefits

Both retailers reward repeat shoppers, but they work differently. Petco leans into a paid wellness membership with ongoing care perks, while PetSmart offers a free, points-based rewards program and optional wellness via its in-store vet partner.

Quick Tips to Maximize Value

• Heavy groomers / frequent vet visits: Petco Vital Care can offset monthly grooming and routine exam costs.
• Deal hunters: PetSmart Treats is free—stack points with promos and autoship discounts on repeat orders.
• Preventive care planners: If your PetSmart has an in-store Banfield, consider an Optimum Wellness Plan for bundled vet services.

Pro tip: Compare your last 3 months of spend on food, grooming, and vet visits. If a paid plan’s monthly benefits exceed your average discounts, it’s worth it. If not, start with PetSmart’s free Treats and add selective services as needed.

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Final Verdict: 2025 Buyer Takeaway

Deciding between Petco and PetSmart in 2025 depends on your budget, priorities, and how you care for your pets:

• Choose Petco if you value holistic products, integrated veterinary services, and wellness-focused grooming. The Vital Care membership makes sense if you schedule regular vet visits and grooming.
• Choose PetSmart if you want lower prices, more store availability, and extra services like dog training. The free Treats Rewards program is ideal for budget-conscious pet parents.

Bottom Line: Petco is the better choice for health-focused, wellness-driven pet parents, while PetSmart is the go-to option for affordability and accessibility. Many U.S. pet owners use both—purchasing everyday supplies at PetSmart and relying on Petco for veterinary and grooming care.

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