If you’re thinking about getting a dog from PetSmart, it’s important to know that PetSmart doesn’t sell dogs—it offers adoptions through local shelters and rescue groups via PetSmart Charities.
Does Petsmart Sell Dogs?
No, PetSmart does not sell dogs—and there are important legal and ethical reasons behind this decision. Unlike pet stores that source animals from commercial breeders or puppy mills, PetSmart has taken a firm stance against such practices. Selling dogs directly could potentially support inhumane breeding operations and contribute to pet overpopulation, both of which conflict with PetSmart’s commitment to animal welfare.
Instead, PetSmart supports adoption through PetSmart Charities, its non-profit arm that partners with trusted local shelters and rescue groups across the country. Through this initiative, PetSmart offers in-store adoption centers in over 1,600 locations, where approved rescue organizations bring in adoptable dogs for customers to meet. These dogs are available for adoption—not for sale—and typically come spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped.
How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Dog Through Petsmart?
Adopting a dog through PetSmart typically costs between $100 and $400, depending on several key factors:
Age of the Dog
- Puppies usually come with higher adoption fees due to the cost of vaccinations, deworming, and early medical care.
- Adult or senior dogs often have lower fees to encourage adoption.
Breed and Size
- Smaller or more in-demand breeds may have higher adoption costs.
- Larger breeds or those less commonly adopted might have reduced fees or added incentives.
Location and Local Costs
- Adoption fees can vary by region based on the local cost of living and the specific rescue or shelter partnered with PetSmart.
What’s Included in the Fee
Most adoption fees already cover important services such as:
- Vaccinations
- Spay or neuter surgery
- Microchipping
- Deworming
- Some rescues also offer a free trial of pet insurance or post-adoption support
Special PetSmart Adoption Events
- During PetSmart Charities National Adoption Week or local adoption drives, adoption fees may be significantly reduced or even waived entirely.
- These events are great opportunities to welcome a new pet while saving on upfront costs.
Note: PetSmart does not sell dogs directly. Instead, it partners with local shelters and rescue groups to facilitate adoptions. Because of this, fees and policies may differ slightly by store and region. It’s always a good idea to check with your nearest PetSmart location or its partnered rescue group for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
What is Included in the Adoption Fee?
When you adopt a dog through PetSmart Charities’ partner organizations, the adoption fee typically covers far more than just taking the dog home. These fees are designed to reflect the cost of essential care your pet has already received — helping you save significantly on initial veterinary expenses.
Here’s what is commonly included:
- Core Vaccinations, Health Testing, and Deworming: Most adopted pets will have received age-appropriate vaccinations (including rabies, distemper, and parvo), been dewormed, and undergone health checks to ensure they are in good condition before going home.
- Spaying or Neutering: All dogs are spayed or neutered prior to adoption. This not only helps prevent pet overpopulation but also contributes to your dog’s long-term health and behavior.
- Microchipping: To improve the chances of reunification if your pet gets lost, adoption fees usually include microchipping — a permanent form of identification registered to you as the new owner.
- 30 Days of Free Pet Insurance: Many adoption partners offer a complimentary 30-day trial of pet health insurance to help cover unexpected vet visits in the early weeks of bringing your dog home.
New pet parents often receive a PetSmart “Welcome Home” booklet, which may include coupons for essentials like food, treats, grooming services, and supplies to help you get started.
How to Adopt a Dog Through Petsmart
Adopting a dog through PetSmart is a straightforward and rewarding process, made possible through PetSmart Charities’ partnerships with thousands of local shelters and rescue organizations. While PetSmart does not sell dogs directly, they provide multiple convenient ways for potential pet parents to connect with adoptable pets.
1. Online Adoption Portal
PetSmart Charities offers an easy-to-navigate online adoption platform where you can search for adoptable dogs by location, breed, age, size, and other preferences. Each pet profile typically includes details about their personality, health status, and adoption fees. Once you find a dog you’re interested in, you can submit an inquiry directly to the shelter or rescue group caring for the animal.
2. In-Store Adoption Events
PetSmart hosts frequent in-store adoption events, including their well-known National Adoption Week. During these events, local rescue groups bring adoptable dogs (and other pets) directly to select PetSmart store locations. It’s a great opportunity to meet animals in person, ask questions, and speak directly with adoption counselors.
3. The Adoption Process
Whether online or in-store, the basic adoption process usually includes:
- Filling Out an Application: This may be done in advance online or on-site during an event. It typically asks about your home environment, experience with pets, and lifestyle to ensure a good match.
- Meet-and-Greet: Once approved for consideration, you’ll meet the dog in person to interact and see if the connection feels right.
- Approval and Paperwork: If it’s a match, the rescue group will finalize the adoption paperwork, provide you with important medical records, and walk you through post-adoption tips.
Adoptions can often be completed the same day, especially during in-store events. Afterward, new pet parents often receive a PetSmart “Adoption Starter Kit” with coupons and resources to help welcome their new dog home.
Additional Costs to Consider When Adopting a Dog
While the adoption fee covers many initial veterinary services, it’s important for prospective dog owners to understand that bringing a dog into your life involves additional, ongoing expenses beyond the upfront cost.
1. Initial Equipment and Supplies ($200 to $500)
Before bringing your new dog home, you’ll need to invest in some basic essentials, which may include:
- Food and water bowls
- Leash and collar or harness
- Dog bed and crate
- Toys for mental stimulation
- Grooming tools and cleaning supplies
- Identification tags and possibly baby gates or barriers
These initial items typically cost between $200 and $500, depending on the quality and quantity of products purchased.
2. Ongoing Expenses (Approximately $1,000 Per Year)
After adoption, dog ownership comes with recurring costs, such as:
- Food: A steady supply of quality dog food tailored to your pet’s size, breed, and dietary needs
- Grooming: Professional grooming (especially for long-haired breeds) or at-home supplies
- Routine Vet Care: Annual checkups, vaccinations, flea/tick prevention, and dental care
- Pet Insurance or Emergency Vet Visits: Unexpected medical issues can arise, and pet insurance may help offset these costs
Altogether, these routine costs can total around $1,000 annually.
3. Time and Lifestyle Commitments
Beyond financial costs, owning a dog requires a significant time investment. Daily walks, training, playtime, and attention are essential to a dog’s health and well-being. Travel plans may require pet sitters or boarding services. Before adopting, it’s important to assess whether your lifestyle allows for the time, energy, and consistency that dog ownership demands.
Petsmart’s policy of not selling dogs from puppy mills, in favor of facilitating adoptions from local shelters, offers a heartwarming alternative to simply buying a pet. By choosing to adopt through their programs, prospective owners can not only give a deserving dog a second chance but also often find a more affordable and ethical option than purchasing from a breeder or a pet store that sources from commercial kennels.
