Return policy comparison · 2026
BarkBox vs PetSmart
Policy data verified July 24, 2026 (BarkBox) and April 17, 2026 (PetSmart)
BarkBox
B-
2.9 / 5.0 · Fair
Winner
PetSmart
B+
3.7 / 5.0 · Good
The verdict
PetSmart has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading B+ (3.7/5.0) against BarkBox's B- (2.9/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the holiday window: extended holiday window versus no holiday extension.
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
BarkBoxPetSmart
Return window · worth 2.0
Restocking fee · worth 1.0
Return shipping · worth 1.0
Holiday window · worth 0.5
Transparency · worth 0.5
Key terms side-by-side
| BarkBox | PetSmart | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | No cash refunds (replacement or credit only); 30 days to report damage/missing items | ✓ 60 days |
| Free returns | — | Yes (in-store) |
| Restocking fee | None | None |
| Return shipping | — | Customer pays mail shipping |
| Holiday extension | None published | ✓ Not specifically extended |
| Non-returnable | All shipped products (sole remedy is replacement or account credit, not a cash refund) | Gift cards, services, vet services, prescription meds, customized items |
| Watch-out items | — | Live pets 14 days with health guarantee |
BarkBox tip
Signing up for a 6- or 12-month plan locks you in for the full term — Bark keeps billing you monthly even if you cancel early, so only commit to the multi-month plan if you're sure, not just chasing the per-box discount.
PetSmart tip
Opened food returnable if pet won't eat it. Live pet health guarantee is 14 days.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, BarkBox or PetSmart?
PetSmart has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading B+ (3.7/5.0) against BarkBox's B- (2.9/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the holiday window: extended holiday window versus no holiday extension.
What is BarkBox's return window?
BarkBox's return window is No cash refunds (replacement or credit only); 30 days to report damage/missing items.
What is PetSmart's return window?
PetSmart's return window is 60 days.
Does BarkBox or PetSmart offer free returns?
BarkBox: see full policy. PetSmart: Yes (in-store).