PetSmart Hiring Age and Requirements (2026)
You need to be over 18 to work at PetSmart in the US and Canada. The only exceptions are Montana and places where local or state law requires something different.
That rule comes straight from PetSmart’s careers FAQ, and it applies to stores and distribution centers alike. Here’s what else you need to know before applying.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Minimum age | Over 18, except Montana or where law requires otherwise |
| Resume needed? | No, not for store or distribution center roles |
| Time to apply | About 10 to 15 minutes |
| Assessments | None currently required |
| Drug test | No pre-employment drug test |
| Background check | Yes, for every hire |
The Age Rule in Detail
PetSmart’s careers FAQ answers the age question the same way for stores and distribution centers. Applicants must be over 18, with exceptions for Montana and wherever law requires otherwise.
Associates work around live animals, grooming tools and warehouse equipment. That’s a big part of why the age bar sits higher than at many retailers.
If you’re 16 or 17, it’s still worth asking your local store. Where state law requires a different rule, the store will know.
What You Need to Apply
The application asks for your work history, education and contact details. Some roles add a few questions about your experience and interests.
- Work history, or a resume in PDF or Word if you have one
- Education details
- Contact information
- Your availability, including weekends
A cover letter is optional, though PetSmart says it’s always appreciated. You’ll get a confirmation email once your application is received.
You can apply for as many roles as you like. PetSmart suggests checking that you meet each role’s qualifications first.
From Application to First Shift
For store jobs, a member of store leadership reviews your application. If you’re a match, they’ll contact you about next steps.
Interviews for store roles may be by phone, in person or both. Corporate roles usually involve more rounds, including a recruiter call and a panel interview.
The best way to check your status is to contact the store you applied to. For many roles, PetSmart emails candidates whether or not they’re moving forward.
Background Checks and Drug Testing
PetSmart runs a background check on every new associate. It stays a drug-free workplace but doesn’t drug test as part of hiring.
A prior conviction doesn’t automatically rule you out. PetSmart says it won’t stop anyone from being considered for a role they’re a good match for.
If you need an accommodation for a disability during hiring, PetSmart asks you to email [email protected] or call 1-866-263-8411.
Jobs You Can Apply For
Most openings fall into a few areas. Each has its own pace and skills.
| Area | What the work involves |
|---|---|
| Retail store | Helping shoppers, stocking shelves, caring for store pets and running the register |
| Grooming salon | Bathing, drying and styling dogs and cats |
| PetsHotel | Feeding, walking and caring for boarded pets |
| Distribution center | Picking, packing and shipping, often on 1st, 2nd or 3rd shift |
| Call center | Booking grooming and hotel stays by phone, based in Phoenix |
| Home office | Corporate roles, mostly in Phoenix |
Store associates are also expected to watch over the pets in their care. That includes reporting any health concern and refusing to sell a pet whose health is at risk.
Becoming a PetSmart Groomer
You don’t need grooming experience or certification to start. PetSmart trains new bathers and stylists through paid, on-the-job training.
New hires begin with the Splash Training Program. It covers salon operations, dog anatomy, behavior and safe handling, plus bathing and drying.
Stage two is the Grooming Academy, where you learn the tools of the trade and keep the tool kit. Stages three and four put those skills to work in the salon as a trainee, then a stylist in training.
Curious about the services you’d provide? See our PetSmart grooming prices guide and dog grooming guide.
Working in PetsHotel and Day Camp
PetsHotel and Doggie Day Camp roles are some of the most hands-on jobs in the store. You’ll feed, walk, play with and watch over other people’s pets all day.
These teams often start early and work holidays, since boarded pets need care every day. Our boarding guide and Day Camp guide show what guests book.
Distribution Center Jobs
PetSmart’s distribution centers hire entry-level workers without warehouse experience. They train new associates and offer structured career paths.
You’ll need to pass a background check and be able to do the job’s physical tasks before onboarding. Shift options differ by location.
Call Center Jobs
PetSmart’s call center books grooming, PetsHotel and day stay services for pet parents. It’s based in Phoenix but hires remotely in several states.
| Detail | What PetSmart says |
|---|---|
| Remote states | Arizona, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Florida, Idaho, Texas and Georgia |
| Training | 4 weeks, full time and paid |
| Interview | A recorded video interview, then a live video interview |
| Hours | Early morning to late evening, with seasonal schedules |
| Bonuses | Monthly, based on service sales and personal performance |
Full-time call center associates work at least 32 hours a week. They get health, dental and vision coverage, sick time, discounts and a 401(k).
Corporate Jobs in Phoenix
Most corporate roles are at the Phoenix home office, with at least four days a week on site. Many associates get one flex day with leader approval.
Healthy, well-behaved pets can come to work, and the campus has a dog park. There’s also an on-site gym, a cafe and accredited childcare.
Growing Your Career
Store associates can cross-train in other departments, join development workshops and shadow leaders. It’s a common route into grooming, training or store management.
Non-leadership associates get a yearly performance review around their hire date. Merit raises are based on that review.
Shifts and Hours
Store shifts include early mornings, evenings and weekends. PetSmart says PetsHotel and grooming salons often open at 7 a.m., while the rest of the store opens 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Part-time, full-time and seasonal roles are available in many locations. Schedules are posted in advance and built around the availability you give.
Distribution center shifts vary by site, with some running first, second and third shifts. You can note your preferences on the application.
For store opening times, see our PetSmart store hours guide.
Pay and Benefits
PetSmart doesn’t publish a single starting wage, because pay depends on the role, experience and location. It does promise never to pay below the local minimum wage.
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| 401(k) match | 50 cents per dollar on contributions up to 6% of pay |
| Vesting | 20% a year for each year with 1,000 hours, fully vested after 5 |
| Paid holidays | 6 a year for eligible full-time US associates |
| Vacation | For regular full- and part-time associates |
| Discounts | Company and partner discounts, including PerkSpot |
Full-time benefits include medical coverage options and tuition assistance. Our Treats Rewards guide covers how regular shoppers save, which stacks well with associate perks.
In Canada, PetSmart lists 15% off products, salon and training services. Associates there can get up to 50% off PetSmart’s own brands, PetsHotel and Doggie Day Camp stays.
Tips for Your Application
- Mention any pet experience, even caring for your own animals
- Be clear and honest about your availability, especially weekends
- Keep your resume to one or two pages if you send one
- Follow up with the store a week or so after applying
- Apply to the salon or PetsHotel if you want hands-on animal work
Store leaders want reliable people who are comfortable with animals and customers. Knowing the PetSmart store policies helps you speak confidently in an interview.
Hiring Questions
Does PetSmart hire 16-year-olds?
Generally no, since the standard rule is over 18. Montana and places with different legal requirements are the exceptions, so ask your local store.
Does PetSmart drug test?
No, there’s no pre-employment drug test. PetSmart is still a drug-free workplace.
Does PetSmart hire people with a record?
Yes, a prior conviction won’t stop you being considered. Every hire still goes through a background check.
Are there remote jobs?
Most roles are in person or hybrid. The call center hires remotely in a handful of states, including Arizona, Texas, Florida and Georgia.
Can I update my application?
You can log in and edit some parts, though a few fields lock after you submit. Contact the location directly to add anything else.
