Petco vs PetSmart in 2025: Which Pet Store Reigns Supreme?
Petco vs PetSmart: Which Pet Store Is Better in 2025? Petco vs PetSmart is a common comparison many pet parents make when deciding where to shop for their furry companions. Both retailers dominate the U.S. pet care industry and have become household names for anyone who owns a dog, cat, reptile, fish, or small pet. While they appear similar at first glance-offering everything from pet food and toys to grooming and vet services-they are distinct brands with their own histories, missions, and business strategies. Founded in 1965, Petco Health and Wellness Company has grown into a nationwide chain with a focus on holistic care and total pet wellness. On the other hand, PetSmart LLC, which opened its doors in 1986, positioned itself as a one-stop pet store and has expanded rapidly with over 1,600 locations across North America.
One of the most common questions pet owners ask is: “Are Petco and PetSmart the same company?” The answer is no. These are two completely separate corporations with unique ownership and operations. PetSmart is a privately held company, while Petco went public again in 2021. PetSmart has a long-standing partnership with Banfield Pet Hospital, providing in-store veterinary clinics, while Petco has its own Vetco Clinics that offer low-cost vaccinations and wellness checks. Additionally, PetSmart was formerly the parent company of Chewy.com, a major player in the online pet supply space, though they have since separated.
When comparing Petco vs PetSmart, it often comes down to personal preference and what matters most to the pet owner. For example, Petco is widely recognized for its WholeHealth philosophy, which supports mental, physical, social, and home health for pets. PetSmart, on the other hand, is known for its in-store pet adoptions, larger store footprints, and greater variety of live animals, including small pets, reptiles, and fish. Both offer loyalty programs (Petco Pals Rewards vs. PetSmart Treats), online ordering, and in-store pickup, making them competitive choices for convenience and value. Ultimately, both companies offer strong value depending on your specific needs, pet type, and location.
Company Background and Brand Overview
When comparing Petco vs PetSmart, it’s helpful to understand how each brand began and what they stand for today. Petco, officially known as Petco Health and Wellness Company, was founded in 1965 and has since grown into one of the largest pet retailers in the United States. Its mission focuses on improving the lives of pets and pet parents through holistic health, offering everything from food and toys to wellness services and training programs.
PetSmart, founded later in 1986, is another major name in the pet care industry. Operated under the name PetSmart LLC, the company emphasizes accessibility and convenience, with over 1,600 locations across North America. While PetSmart also offers a wide range of pet supplies and services, it is especially known for its partnership with Banfield Pet Hospital, allowing pet owners to access in-store veterinary care.
Though similar in many ways, these companies have evolved with distinct identities. Petco highlights wellness and sustainability, while PetSmart leans into convenience, live animal selection, and strong in-store adoption partnerships through PetSmart Charities. Both have earned the trust of millions of pet parents, but depending on your priorities – health services, shopping experience, or pet adoption – one may suit your needs better than the other.
Which One Is Right for You?
| Consideration | Petco | PetSmart |
| Product Focus | Wellness-based, natural foods, exclusive WholeHearted line | Wider selection of mainstream brands like Blue Buffalo, Royal Canin |
| Veterinary Services | Vetco Clinics (affordable vaccines, wellness checks) | Banfield Pet Hospital (in-store full vet care) |
| Live Animals | Fewer options, focus on habitat health | Wider variety (hamsters, reptiles, fish) |
| Adoption Events | Shelter grants, occasional in-store adoptions | Frequent in-store adoption days, PetSmart Charities |
| Shopping Experience | Clean interface, wellness bundles, strong mobile app | User-friendly, often better deals and in-store promos |
In the end, both Petco and PetSmart offer great options for pet parents. Your decision may come down to your pet type, location, budget, and whether you prioritize holistic wellness or convenience and variety.
Nonprofit Arms: Petco Love vs PetSmart Charities
| Aspect | Petco Love | PetSmart Charities |
| Organization Type | Nonprofit (formerly Petco Foundation) | Nonprofit arm of PetSmart |
| Primary Focus | Ending pet homelessness and supporting innovation in pet care | Pet adoption, emergency relief, and spay/neuter programs |
| How They Help | Grants, community partnerships, and public awareness campaigns | In-store adoptions, local shelter partnerships, and food donations |
| Impact | Invested over $300M in animal welfare initiatives | Facilitated over 10 million pet adoptions |
| Best For | Pet parents supporting innovation and shelter grants | Pet owners who support adoption and local rescue work |
Product Selection and Variety
Both Petco and PetSmart offer a wide range of pet essentials, but each has its own strengths:
- Pet Food Brands
PetSmart carries top names like Royal Canin, Blue Buffalo (view on Amazon), and Hill’s Science Diet. Petco promotes WholeHearted, its wellness-focused in-house line (check here). - Toys & Supplies
Both stores stock leashes, toys, and grooming gear. PetSmart often has better variety for small pets and reptiles, while Petco focuses more on health-based products. - Live Animals & Aquatics
PetSmart usually offers more live animals (hamsters, fish, reptiles). Petco leans toward habitat health – like this Zilla Reptile Kit.
If you’re comparing Petco vs PetSmart for variety, the choice depends on whether you want premium wellness or broader options for multiple pet types.
Grooming Services
Both Petco and PetSmart offer full-service grooming including baths, haircuts, nail trims, and de-shedding. PetSmart is known for consistent pricing and certified groomers, while Petco emphasizes personalized care and its Head-to-Tail wellness checks. Booking is available online at both stores, with optional grooming add-ons.
Veterinary and Wellness Services
PetSmart partners with Banfield Pet Hospital, offering in-store vet clinics with full health plans. Petco runs its own Vetco Clinics, focusing on low-cost vaccinations, microchipping, and wellness exams. If you need full-service veterinary care, PetSmart may be more convenient; for quick and affordable preventive services, Petco is ideal.
Pet Training Programs
Petco offers group and private training classes using positive reinforcement techniques. PetSmart provides beginner to advanced obedience training and AKC-certified Canine Good Citizen programs. When comparing Petco vs PetSmart, both offer great options, but class availability and trainer experience may vary by location.
Adoption Services
Petco Love and PetSmart Charities both partner with shelters to promote in-store adoptions. PetSmart hosts regular adoption events and supports rescue groups directly. Petco focuses on funding and shelter grants. Both retailers make pet adoption easy, but PetSmart tends to have more frequent adoption days in-store.
Prices and Promotions
Pricing is competitive at both stores. PetSmart often wins on daily deals and bulk discounts, while Petco stands out with Pals Rewards and subscription savings. Price matching is available at both chains, and you’ll find rotating promotions, especially through mobile apps and email sign-ups.
Community & Corporate Responsibility
Petco focuses on pet wellness and sustainability, reducing single-use plastics and promoting healthy pet lifestyles. PetSmart supports local communities with pet food donations and emergency rescue during disasters. Both brands show a strong commitment to corporate responsibility through their nonprofit arms and eco-conscious efforts.
Pros and Cons Table
| Feature | Petco | PetSmart |
| Grooming | ✔ Competitive pricing | ✔ Banfield Hospital access |
| Pet Food Options | ✔ Premium + private labels | ✔ Large inventory |
| Adoption Services | ✔ Strong shelter partnerships | ✔ Frequent adoption events |
| Loyalty Programs | ✔ Pals Rewards | ✔ Treats Points System |
| App and Website UX | ✔ Easy navigation | ✔ Better app ratings |
When it comes to Petco vs PetSmart, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer – and that’s actually a good thing. Both brands are leading the U.S. pet retail space with strong reputations, broad product selections, and community impact. Whether you’re shopping for nutritious food, grooming services, training classes, or adopting a new pet, each store brings something unique to the table.
Explore both, see what fits your lifestyle best, and take advantage of their rewards and seasonal offers. In the end, your pet’s happiness and health are what matter most – and both Petco and PetSmart are built to support exactly that.
For more helpful guides, product reviews, and breed comparisons, don’t forget to check out our latest dog blogs here.
