UPDATED: 4/30/17
The dog subscription box market has exploded. In 2012, I learned about the first one. Less than a year later, there were 7 boxes on the market.
I found searching the internet for reviews and information to make the right choice confusing. In order to demystify the choices, I wrote a blog post comparing all 7 dog goody subscription boxes side-by-side.
That comparison post was written two years ago and is woefully outdated now. In the last two years I have seen many boxes come and go. In fact, only two of the original boxes compared still exist.
In order to fairly compare boxes, I sought to try them all (although there are so many now, that has proven impossible). I have even received some for several months at a time.
To tell you the truth, after months of receiving the boxes, they all started to have the same stuff in them. Literally. There were one or two brands that seemed to have made the subscription box rounds because they showed up in almost all of the boxes at one time or another. There were months we were happy with most of the items in a box and there were months when we donated everything we got.
Don’t get me wrong, I still LOVE getting mystery goodies in the mail for Chester and Gretel. I’ve just noticed some trends and am more discerning about how I judge the boxes… which is actually a good thing for you.
If you want to stop reading now, we can just say they are pretty much all the same. They all come in the mail; they all have 4 – 8 goodies in them; and they all provide a value a bit higher than it would cost to buy the stuff separately in a store.
Are they really the same though?
No, not totally. The quality of the products in some subscription boxes is a bit better. Some have a little bit of special sauce that might sway you one way or another. If you want to know what makes them different, then read on.
Side-by-side Comparison of 7 Dog Subscription Boxes
Related: The 3 Best Dog Subscription Boxes
A Closer Look
BarkBox
I first reviewed BarkBox in 2012 . I started my subscription again in March 2015 to get an updated look at what’s inside. After a long gap. I had a chance to try the box again in spring 2017. I will say that the quality of their products have vastly improved over time.
BarkBox is a box of surprise goodies for your dog that arrive on your doorstep every month. Every BarkBox comes with 2 original toys only available through BarkBox and BarkShop.com, 2 all-natural bags of treats, and a chew all curated to match each month’s uniquely-themed collection. They pick the best US/Canadian made treats and innovative toys to match a dog’s unique needs, including allergies. For $9/month, they’ll add an extra toy to your pup’s BarkBox.
They give 10% of all profits to shelters and, together with their BarkGood program, they are working with over 3,000 shelters and rescues around the U.S. and Canada.
The Barkbox subscription box has been around the longest. That means that they have had the longest to learn from their customers, perfect they way they do things, and have the longest track record. As they put it, “Having shipped over 50 million toys and treats so far, we’ve learned a ton about what engages dogs.”
Read our most current BarkBox review HERE.
PawPals with Annie Gift Box
I like the PawPals with Annie gift box because each one is personalized beyond just putting your dog’s name on the box. They aim to add customized goodies in each box that are specific to your dog’s likes, breed, and size (for example, that little Doxie soap you see in the picture).
Inside the PawPals with Annie Gift Box, you will find all-natural goodies and well-made toys that have been tested and approved by Annie, a fun-loving, tail wagging, blonde Scottie from Savannah. Including only dog-tested products helps ensure great, high-quality products in every box that your own pup will be happy with. PawPals With Annie proudly supports America’s VetDogs Corporation, local rescue shelters, adoption centers, community animal activists, fundraisers, and educational programs.
THE biggest thing that makes this box unique is that it doesn’t auto renew. No more forgetting to cancel and being surprised by an additional charge on your card. Pawpals with Annie gift boxes ship new orders every week (instead of monthly like most).To see inside a couple of these boxes, please see our previous reviews here and here.
Bugsy’s Box
Note: As of 4/30/17, this box has gone out of business (I think it happened sometime last year) but I’m leaving the information here in case someone is interested in seeing what the box used to be about.
I’ll admit that it’s been a while since we reviewed the Bugsy’s Box. Based on our past experience, I can say that I was unimpressed by what was in the box. A lot of that can be chalked up to person preference though so I am certainly not knocking them. It’s just that we ended up donating most of what was in the box.
Bugsy’s Box includes 3 to 5, full-size products hand picked just for your dog. You will also find sample sized products, and misc other goodies, from time to time. All of the treats included in Bugsy’s Box are made in the USA. Every month, the Bugsy’s Box blog highlights a new rescue, and for that month they donate $.25 from every box sold to that rescue.
You can read a recent review of Bugsy’s Box from our friends over at 2 Brown Dawgs.
PupJoy
The folks at PupJoy are so into dogs that they created a community around how much they mean to us. Their hope is that, together, the community can help shape industry standards, support artisan manufacturers, and help to make an impact on important causes.
PupJoy is a “monthly box of bliss for your dog”. Their customization raises the bar for dog subscription services. They believe that your dog isn’t a one-size fits all, or a three-size fits most. Boxes can be customized for dogs that only like toys and accessories, multiple dog households, tough chewers, and dogs allergic to grain. Through the PupJoy Care Pack programs, they donate up to 50% of the profits to charitable ventures.
I felt like the items in this box were well thought out and loved that the leash and collar set was from an organization, Bait Free, whose mission is to spread awareness about the use of bait dogs and other survivors of dog fighting. You can read our complete review of the box here.
Pet Giftbox
The Pet Giftbox team of discriminating pet lovers and savvy pet experts, carefully select and curate each box. Every one of the included products gets an exclusive “Paw Print of Satisfaction” before they send it to you. A portion of all proceeds is given to America’s VetDogs,® an organization serving the needs of veterans with disabilities.
There were a whole lot of toys in the box we received for sure. However, I wasn’t thrilled with the treats that were included and most the toys were only suitable for light chewers. You can read our full review of the box here.
Paws & Play
Note: As of 4/30/17, this box has gone out of business (I think it happened sometime last year) but I’m leaving the information here in case someone is interested in seeing what the box used to be about.
Live in Canada and want to support a Canada-based gift box service, eh? Paws & Play is for you. They receive an A++ for fun and creativity in my book too.
In addition to the ability to order toy-only subscription boxes, Paws & Play offers special occasion/event boxes such as the Earth Rangers Special Edition Charity Box and the Canadian Cottage Hound Gift Box. They also offer three different boxes, with a minimum of three options on each, for over 12 ways to customize your box. Paws & Play believes in curating pet boxes using fresh organic fruit and vegetables, free range meat products, and the freshest human grade ingredients. They strive to use little or no excess packaging. It is my understanding that all of the products are sourced in Canada, further supporting Canadian brands.
Note: Shipping is free on new orders but is normally a $5 flat fee.
I was very pleased with the products that came in the Paws & Play box and there were very few items that I won’t use. You can read our full review here.
PetBox
Note: As of 4/30/17, it appears this box has gone out of business. However, their website is still live. It appears that they now drive you to sign up for a BarkBox subscription (see above). I’m leaving the information about PetBox here in case someone is interested in seeing what the box used to be about though.
PetBox gives you the option to pack your own box if you want to know what is going to show up on your doorstep. They are THE ONLY monthly pet box that gives you that option.
PetBox offers a “one box for all”. That doesn’t mean you can’t customize your box. In face it’s just the opposite – get items for your cat, dog, pig, or all three! You pick your favorites, their pet experts do the leg-work, and they send a collection built just for you. Their team of pet experts work hand-in-hand with veterinarians, groomers, dog-walkers, and members to source the most healthy, fun products in the world. They pride themselves in great customer service.
You can watch Gretel digging around in the PetBox we got here.
Conclusion
Subscription boxes are great if you like the element of surprise or want to give a unique gift. However, if you are used to buying high-quality products from independent pet stores like us, you won’t be blown away by anything. The theory here is that you get to try some products that you might otherwise not buy and you get a little discount compared to buying everything in the box separately.
Do I have a favorite box? Yes, I do. You’ll have to stay tuned for my top three dog subscription box post for the answer though.
Dog Subscription Boxes We Have Reviewed Since This Post Was Written
There are new subscription boxes coming out all of the time and it is hard to keep up. The boxes we have reviewed since this comparison post will be added to the chart when the next version is published For now, you can check out additional reviews here:
Lauren Miller (ZoePhee) says
I think it’s awesome that you’ve compared all of them! I really enjoyed the Petbox for the short time we got it.
Jessica Rhae says
Thanks. It was hard work but I know that people found my old one really useful. Surprises in the mail are fun 🙂
Laika says
Wow what a lot of boxes.
Wags from Laika & Vaks.
MattieDog says
Thank you for this write up – comparing the dog subscription boxes makes for a great read! We’re gonna look at this more and await for your follow-up to help us decide which one to get!!
Jessica Rhae says
My “top three” post will be coming at the beginning of next week.
Susan says
Have I missed the top 3 post? I was ready to subscribe to Bark Box (the only one I had heard of previously), but on the basis of this review I ordered from Paw Pals with Annie and Paws & Play — don’t know if the dogs will think it makes up for kenneling them for a week while I was away on a business trip but we shall see. Pup Joy and Pet Box are probably the next ones I will try if the poodles don’t think they are being adequately pampered with the first two …
Jessica Rhae says
Hi Susan. No, you didn’t miss it. The heat around here (Seattle of all places, which is usually pretty cool) has been killing me and I am behind schedule. I will post it to our Facebook page, and link to it in this article, when it publishes.
That’s great that you ordered the PawPals with Annie and Paws & Play subscription boxes. I don’t think you will be disappointed.
Amy says
Personally, I don’t like surprises 🙂 but what I do like about subscription boxes is that it’s a great way for a smaller company to reach pet parents who may not have had the opportunity. It’s a good way to start to build brand loyalty.
Jessica Rhae says
What?? You don’t like surprises? I usually get more excited about a surprise than the person I am surprising and end up spilling the beans. I guess, in that case, we would be a good match because a surprise wouldn’t last for long with me around. Ha, ha.
Kyley & Ammo the Dachshund says
I’ve tried a few over the years but still really like Barkbox. I love that u can customize it to your dogs allergies (telling them if they can’t eat certain things) and even if u get something u don’t like u can swap it for something ur dog will like. I’ve never had to worry though about what I’m giving Ammo from there because it’s always stuff I feel safe feeding him.
Jessica Rhae says
You can customize several of the boxes for allergies but Barkbox might be the only one that allows for an exchange of products if they don’t work out for you. That part is nice.
Dustin McAdams says
Hi! Great comparison review. Thanks so much for highlighting some of the differences. Just a quick note of clarification on this particular topic – PupJoy allows you to customize for grain allergies (grain free only treats) with more allergy sensitive options soon to come. And we offer a risk free, 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you get something that doesn’t work for you, we make it right. Period. And regardless of the subscription term that you choose, you can cancel at any time.
Jessica Rhae says
Thanks for that extra info Dustin. We love PupJoy!
Val Silver says
Wow, I didn’t realize there were so many subscription boxes available. I’ve never tried one, but they look good. Thanks for sharing and comparing.
Jessica Rhae says
There are more surfacing every day. There are even a few not listed here because I haven’t had the opportunity to try them. I will be updating this post as the come in though. It will be up to 10 soon! 🙂
Amy Shojai, CABC says
Holy dog gift….wow, this is a great article and comparison! What a lot of work, and terrific info. I’m sharing, my followers will really value this info, thanks!
Jessica Rhae says
Thanks Amy. It did take a lot of work but knowing that people find it really useful makes it worth it 🙂
Flea says
Thank you! I’m always curious about these boxes and read your review a couple of years ago with extreme interest. I’ll probably never subscribe to one, but it’s helpful to have a link like yours to refer people to. 🙂
Jessica Rhae says
You have access to gourmet snacks whenever you want so I imagine you wouldn’t need to 🙂 Thanks for pointing people over here when the question comes up though.
Kristen–well minded says
What a great post! I knew there were a lot of dog subscription boxes out there, but I didn’t realize that there were quite THIS many. Your comparison chart is very helpful. Thanks! Sharing…
Jessica Rhae says
There are actually more than I listed here. I am going to try and review them too and will update this post.
Cathy Armato says
Thanks for a very thorough review of the popular boxes, you’ve done all the leg work for us! It really is overwhelming how many of these box subscription companies have cropped up, it does seem like they are all the same. Thanks for pointing out some of the differences in them. Sharing so others can benefit from all the trials you’ve done!
Jessica Rhae says
It IS totally overwhelming. A lot of the differences , although important, can be hard to determine when you are in information overload. I wish this chart existed when I was making my first decisions. I hope it helps others.
Marie says
Excellent information and very thorough post! Would be very helpful to anyone choosing a dog subscription box. Interesting that only half of them offer a cat option.
Jessica Rhae says
Yeah, the cats aren’t very well represented 🙂 At least there were some options. If I had a cat I would totally do the Paws & Play box. It was great (you can read about the cat box in our review post I linked to).
Beth | Daily Dog Tag says
I’ve only tried one and my dogs loved it. However, there was always at least one thing that was not suitable for my dogs. I stopped subscribing to it and not sure if I’ll try another one or not.
Jessica Rhae says
Yeah, I will admit that there have been very few boxes where I was satisfied with everything. The box elude to the fact that you are getting all of the items at a “discount” so you are not “out any money” if there is one thing you con’t use. However, I like a deal, not a break even, so I would prefer that I like and use all of the items. Also, it is not unusual to not like more than one item sometimes. We donate our extras to rescue though so it still gives me the warm and fuzzies 🙂
Lara Elizabeth says
My BarkBox subscription just ended and I won’t be renewing. Three boxes in a row, we have gotten two plush toys, which my dogs will destroy in under 60 seconds. I was mystified by others’ BarkBox reviews, because ours rarely had the same stuff reviews for the same month pictured (the Bumi toy, for instance – not in ours, and that’s something we would have loved). I tried both small and medium boxes, too. The Ginger Sisters LOVE getting surprises in the mail, and I’ll probably try one of these others (like the Annie box) in a few months because their joy in rooting through the box and excitement for new treats and toys is just impossible to resist.
Jessica Rhae says
I understand where you are coming from. You might not know it but Dachshunds have jaws of steel. There isn’t anything Chester can’t tear through. The PupJoy box gives you a “tough chewer” option and the PawPals with Annie box will take into account your dog’s propensity to chew if you make a note of it at checkout.
Robbi Hess says
Thank you for this comparison. I’ve been thinking about getting something for the dogs, but not sure which to choose.
Donna says
Wow! What a lot of effort you put into this. I’ve thought about getting one for my dachshund but haven’t done so yet. I always thought it would be to difficult to choose. Your reviews are very helpful though. Thanks
Jessica Rhae says
Sometimes more information doesn’t make choices easier. Ha, ha. Hopefully it does here.
Talent Hounds says
Thanks for the great comparison and reviews. I was just reading one about Bar Box on another blog. It was tempting, but I am like you and enjoy buying specific toys and treats and food. Plus we seem to have a lot in stock right now I need to donate (off to Wienerfest tomorrow so I’ll take some stuff with me). Glad you included the Canadian one- they seem interesting. I’ll check them out further. X Susie and Kilo
Jessica Rhae says
The Canadian one was one of my favorites. And we have a large tupperware bin with a backstock of treats, partially from all of the subscription boxes that we got. I donate a lot too or use the stuff for prizes among my dog groups.
Amy says
I am on the hunt for a new monthly pet box and found your post. We have been getting the Pupbox for 6 months and I finally had to cancel. My 7 1/2 month old boxer has completely eviscerated/beheaded the toys in the last 2 boxes within minutes of getting them. I wish there was a way to let them know your puppy is a serious chewer and we need more durable toys, but there is not, so sadly I had to cancel. I’m a little sad because he (and my 8 year old Lab) loved getting these boxes and playing with the toys but it’s not worth it to me for 30 seconds of play and then a major clean up of stuffing and trying to find the squeakers lol.
Jessica Rhae says
Luckily there is a way! The PupJoy box gives you a “tough chewer” option and the PawPals with Annie box will take into account your dog’s propensity to chew if you make a note of it at checkout.
Now, you may not know it but Dachshunds can be voracious chewers. Chester has tore up many “tough” dog toys. Just sayin’ that even the toys that claim to be tough can still be destroyed in a day or two… which you probably already understand 🙂
Kate says
Paws and Play offers tons of customization and a tough and durable option for any of their boxes! They also have a return policy if you don’t like the items included which is really great too. I’m not sure if any other pet boxes have a return policy
Dustin McAdams says
Kate, while we try really hard to make sure that every product works for your pup through our box customization, if any do not, we are 100% satisfaction guaranteed.
Dustin@PupJoy
Robin says
I love the chart you made! It really makes everything very clear. I have seen a ton of these subscription boxes popping up too. The box I was most impressed with was meowbox from Canada (there are a few different subscription boxes named “MeowBox”and this one differentiates by not capitalizing anything).
Jessica Rhae says
Hmmm… I don’t have any kitties that would give me an excuse to try the meowbox but I am happy to know there are some exclusively for cats. We got to see the cat version of the Paws & Play box (you can read about it in the review I linked to) and I liked everything in there for my imaginary kitty friend. Ha, ha.
Brenda Lee says
Great reviews! I just signed up for a 3-month for Bark Box. I’ve been skeptical for quite some time but jumped today when I read another Pet Bloggers review. Eeeks! Scared as to what I’ll get for Titan. 🙂
Jessica Rhae says
Hopefully it’s excited scared 🙂 From the recent BarkBoxes I have been getting, I don’t think you will be disappointed.
Roberta says
The only box I’ve ordered so far, thanks to your review, was Annie’s. I sent 3 months to my friend, whose elder Parson Terrier was declining and, in fact, died before his third box arrived. I told “Annie” about his conditions and why I was ordering and “she” made sure he had very good stuff appropriate for his age and Terrier type as well as asking if I still wanted the third box sent after he passed; my friend did want it; Calvin so enjoyed his boxes, she wanted to see what was there and share in his name. You other options which intrigue me are Petbox, since I can customize for multiple size dogs (my current crew run from mini Dachshund to Bloodhound), and PetJoy r/t their philanthropy. Look forward to your 3 favs!
Jessica Rhae says
Thanks for sharing that story. I am sorry to hear about Calvin. I am very pleased to hear that “she” listened to your story and took it to heart when packing his box though.
Rascal and Rocco says
Love the comparison chart! Thanks so much for that!
Spencer the Goldendoodle says
I currently have a subscription to the Pet Gift Box and love it! I love that each month has a different theme! Thanks for sharing this great complied list of different boxes. There is a box for everyone.
Jessica Rhae says
I didn’t actually remember that Pet Gift Box had a different theme every month. It doesn’t say it anywhere I could find on their website, which is too bad because I think it’s one of their unique selling points. You are not the first to mention the customization. I will contact them and ask for more information about that so I can include it in the description here.
Keeks says
I know this is late but I just found your article! I’ve had subscriptions to barkbox and pet gift box. The price point for pet gift box is better than bark box. I pay $17.99 a month for essentially the same things I was paying bark box for $29 a month. I had two separate issues with pet gift box where I had a box delivered but never received, and I moved and they sent it to my old address. Both times, they resent the boxes and corrected the issue. Also through amazing clubs, they have a treat box. My dogs receive that also! So anytime a box comes to my house, they think it’s for them!
Jessica Rhae says
Thanks for sharing your experience
Sadie says
Wow! You certainly put a lot of effort into this post. Thank you for sharing this information!
Jen Gabbard says
Being able to see them side by side like this is amazing; because to be honest I get them confused with so many to choose from. I haven’t ordered any in the past but now I’m definitely going to be looking into Paws & Play.
Jessica Rhae says
I know, right? I got confused trying to get them all into one chart. Ha, ha. Checking and rechecking things to make sure I had the facts straight is part of what made this post take so long I think. Glad you found it helpful.
GROOVY GOLDENDOODLES says
You are absolutely correct. After a while they do start to mirror one another. Presently Jax is receiving PupBox – designed for puppies. I like it a lot because the contents are based on the age of your puppy. Each box consists of toys, treats, and accessories complete with a laminated card full of puppy info, tips on training, and what to expect at your puppy’s age.
Jessica Rhae says
That’s a neat idea. We haven’t tried PupBox.
Michelle Wolff says
What a great and very thorough review! This makes me wish for dogs!
Maureen says
Thanks for sharing this information. I’ve tried a few of these boxes and have not been very impressed. I liked PetBox because you can customize but then their selection of products really decreased. Most don’t seem to stay in business for very long…
Jessica Rhae says
Yeah, I’ve seen some stay in business less than 6 months. The market is pretty flooded so it’s becoming more and more competitive.
Being totally able to customize a box would take the fun out of it for me. The fun is in the surprise to me.
Anne says
Nice round up. I am surprised by the wide difference in pricing. Can’t wait to see your fav, I like surprises too!
Lindsay says
Great post. The chart is helpful. I think subscription boxes for pets are a lot of fun, and they make a fun gift for dog lovers – like if you want to sign up a friend for a 3-month subscription or something like that. I have a hard time signing up for this long-term myself because we really just don’t NEED any more toys or treats. But they’re fun to receive every now and then, and I think most dog lovers would feel the same.
I’m curious which companies you like the best. I’m sure it’s a very difficult business to be in since there’s a lot of competition.
Jessica Rhae says
Yeah, there is a lot of competition. The “buying decision” really comes down to a few small, but key differences. I am sure it is difficult competing in this space.
Paige says
This is a great post, thanks! I have a newish puppy, and never know what to buy, so it’s nice to have someone else do it for us. I’m still deciding between a few of these options, plus PupBox. When can we look forward to your 3 Fave Boxes post?
Thanks so much!
Jessica Rhae says
I am working on my “favorites” post now but it keeps getting pushed back because of other obligations. I am hoping to get it up sometime this next week.
DZ Dogs says
So cool!!
Thank you for posting this!
Patricia Butler says
Did you ever publish your top three recommendation? I haven’t been able to find it.
Jessica Rhae says
Hi Patricia. Yes, I did. You should be able to find anything you are looking for by typing it in the search box on the right-hand sidebar (It’s about half way down). Here it is though: http://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/the-3-best-dog-subscription-boxes/
2 Brown Dawgs says
The last few months have been a whirl wind for me. So sorry that I missed that you linked up to my Bugsy’s Box review. Thank you! I was not overly impressed with that box either, but I have to admit that I have used the Canine Calming Spray that was included in my sample to calm the dogs on the 4th of July and it worked! I had initially poo-pooed it…lol. I really liked PawPals with Annie when I reviewed it and I have a review coming up this week (tomorrow if I stop and finish it ) for PawPack which I really liked. I might actually buy that one for us.
Scott says
Hi, I wanted to thank you for your thorough review and excellent comparison table! I’ve been wanting to get my wife (and dog) a subscription to a dog box and was not impressed by the mixed reviews of BarkBox, the industry standard. Your review opened my eyes to PupJoy. I really appreciate the customization they offer as I feel like my dog will get more joy from these items and the slightly higher subscription fee will be well worth it. I just got done placing my order and can’t wait to get our first box! Once again, I valued your candor and expertise in comparing numerous subscriptions; excellent job. Thank you for the time in doing so!
Jessica Rhae says
I’m glad you found the comparison helpful Scott. PupJoy is actually one of my top three picks for dog subscription boxes. I hope your pup enjoys it!
natachia says
hello i would just like to know where can i order some off your gifts bags and is it possible if its south aftica
Jessica Rhae says
Hello. I am sorry for the confusion. I do not sell anything. I only reviewed some subscription boxes I bought. You will need to contact the specific company directly.