Pet ownership is on the rise. About 66% of U.S. households, or 86.9 million homes, now own a pet. Providing the best for these furry family members is a top priority, but costs can add up quickly. The average dog owner spends over $1,500 annually on their pet.

Shopping for pet supplies online saves time and money. Dozens of retailers now deliver food, toys, and medications directly to your door, often at lower prices than brick-and-mortar stores.

Top Platforms for Pet Supply Delivery

These websites have earned a reputation for competitive pricing, wide selection, and convenient delivery services.

Chewy: The Online Pet Superstore

Chewy dominates the online pet supply market. The platform is known for its massive inventory, competitive prices, and exceptional customer service. It offers supplies for nearly every type of pet, from dogs and cats to reptiles and horses.

  • Key Features: Chewy's "Autoship" program is a major draw. It offers a 35% discount on your first subscription order and a consistent 5% discount on all future deliveries. This service lets you schedule regular shipments of food and other essentials, so you never run out. Chewy also has an in-house pharmacy for prescription medications.
  • Unique Perk: The company is famous for its customer service. They are known to send hand-painted portraits of pets and condolence flowers when a pet passes away. This personal touch builds incredible brand loyalty.

Petco: An Omnichannel Leader

Petco is a familiar name with a strong brick-and-mortar presence. Its online store extends its reach, blending in-person services with digital convenience. It offers a wide range of products for various pets, often running competitive online-only deals.

  • Key Features: Petco's "Repeat Delivery" service saves you 35% on your first order and 5% on subsequent ones. A key advantage is its omnichannel approach. You can order online and pick up your items in a local store, often on the same day. This is perfect for when you need something urgently.
  • Unique Perk: The Vital Care program offers a paid membership with perks like discounts on food, vet exams, and unlimited routine grooming services. This can offer significant savings for owners who frequently use these services.

Amazon: The Everything Store for Pets

Amazon’s vast marketplace includes a comprehensive pet supply section. It offers products from thousands of brands, from major names to smaller, independent sellers. The convenience of Prime shipping makes it a go-to for many pet owners.

  • Key Features: The "Subscribe & Save" program is Amazon’s version of autoship. It offers discounts of up to 15% when you schedule repeat deliveries of five or more items to one address. The selection is nearly endless, and customer reviews provide valuable insight into product quality.
  • Unique Perk: The sheer breadth of products is Amazon’s biggest strength. You can find niche pet foods, specialty toys, and obscure accessories that might not be available on other platforms. Prime members also get fast, free shipping on most items.

PetSmart: Another Retail Giant Online

Similar to Petco, PetSmart leverages its large retail footprint to create a powerful online shopping experience. The website features a broad selection of food, treats, toys, and habitats for a variety of animals.

  • Key Features: PetSmart's "Autoship" program provides a 35% discount on the first order and 5% on future ones. The site frequently offers "buy online, pick up in store" options. Their Treats loyalty program allows members to earn points on every purchase, which can be redeemed for discounts.
  • Unique Perk: PetSmart often has exclusive brand partnerships and product lines you cannot find elsewhere. Their loyalty program also includes special members-only pricing on hundreds of items.

How to Save Even More on Pet Supplies

Beyond choosing the right platform, several strategies can help you cut costs further.

1. Always Use Autoship or Subscription Services

This is the single most effective way to save. Every major retailer offers a discount for scheduling recurring deliveries. For items you buy regularly, like food or cat litter, this provides consistent savings of 5-15% and ensures you never run out.

2. Compare Prices Across Platforms

Do not assume one retailer is always the cheapest. Before making a large purchase, use a browser extension or simply open a few tabs to compare prices for the same item on Chewy, Amazon, and other sites. Prices can fluctuate, especially for high-ticket items like premium dog food.

3. Buy in Bulk

Buying larger bags of food or bigger boxes of treats almost always lowers the cost per ounce or per item. The upfront cost is higher, but the long-term savings are significant. This is especially true for non-perishable items. Be sure to check expiration dates and guarantee you have sufficient storage space.

4. Look for Rebates and Coupons

Before you check out, do a quick search for "[Retailer Name] coupon code." Many sites offer promotional codes for first-time buyers or during holidays. Additionally, some pet food manufacturers, like Purina and Hill's Science Diet, offer rebates and coupons directly on their own websites.

5. Consider Generic or Store Brands

Major retailers like Petco (WholeHearted) and PetSmart (Authority) have their own private-label brands. These products are often manufactured to high standards but sold at a lower price point than name-brand competitors. Read the ingredient list to certify the quality meets your standards.