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Can I Return Dog Food to Walmart? Return Policy & FAQ

Nicole Cosgrove Profile Picture

By Nicole Cosgrove

dog owners bu ying dog food at the store

Walmart is a great place to buy all your pet supplies, including dog food. However, what if you decide that you don’t want the food after all? Can you return it? The answer is yes, but there are a few things that you need to know first. Here, we discuss Walmart’s return policy for dog food and other pet supplies and provide tips on how to make a return.

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Walmart’s Pet Food Return Policy

Walmart’s return policy for dog food is the same as its return policy for any other product.1 This means you have 14 days to return the food for a full refund. However, there are a few restrictions. The food must be unopened and in its original packaging. If you have opened the food or if the packaging is damaged, you will only be able to receive a partial refund or store credit.

woman buying dog food
Image By: Caftor, Shutterstock

How to Make a Return

When you are ready to make a return, you will need to bring the food and your receipt to the customer service desk. The associate will process your return and give you your refund. If you do not have a receipt, you may still be able to return the food, but you will only receive a store credit.

Making a return at Walmart is simple and easy. Just make sure that you have your receipt and that the food is in its original packaging. With these tips, you’ll be able to return dog food to Walmart with no problem!

Can You Make Your Return at Any Walmart?

Yes, you can make your return at any Walmart store. You do not need to go back to the same store where you purchased the food.

Can You Return Pet Food Using the App?

Unfortunately, at this time, you cannot return pet food using the Walmart app. You will need to go into the store to make your return.

For What Reasons Can You Return Pet Food?

If you have pet food that your animal will not eat, that has passed its expiration date, or that was damaged in shipping, you can return it. You should also keep in mind that some stores may require a restocking fee. Be sure to ask about this before making your return.

Do I Have to Check In With the Greeter?

No, you do not have to check in with the greeter. You can go straight to the customer service desk to make your return. Some stores may prefer that you check in with the greeters, but this is not official store policy at this time.

Dog food in a bowl
Image By: 279photoStudio, Shutterstock

Do You Need to Have Your Receipt?

If you have your receipt, the return process will be much easier. However, if you do not have your receipt, you can still return the food. You will just need to provide identification, and you may only receive a store credit rather than a refund.

Can You Exchange Rather Than Return?

Yes, you can exchange your pet food for a different type or flavor. However, you will need to bring the food to the store in order to do this. You cannot exchange pet food using the Walmart app or website.

Can Someone Else Return the Food for Me?

Yes, someone else can return the food for you. They will just need your receipt and to follow the return policy.

Do I Need an ID to Return Pet Food?

You may need to show identification when you return pet food. This is usually only required if you do not have your receipt.

What Happens If I Return Pet Food After the 14-Day Policy?

If you try to return pet food after the 14-day policy, you will most likely be denied a refund. However, you may be able to receive store credit depending on your situation. Talk to the manager if you have any questions.

If Your Pet Food Was Spoiled…

If you believe that your pet food was spoiled, you should reach out to the manufacturer. It may offer a refund or replacement in addition to what Walmart offers. Most manufacturers want to keep you as a customer and are happy to give refunds and coupons in place of purchasing a bad product.

man buying pet food
Image By: LADO, Shutterstock

If Your Pet Food Was Recalled…

If your pet food was recalled, you should return it to the store immediately. You will most likely receive a full refund for the food.

If Your Pet Food Was Damaged…

If your pet food was damaged, contact the manufacturer. In addition to what Walmart offers, it may offer a refund or replacement.

If Your Pet Food Goes on Sale After You Buy It…

If your pet food goes on sale after you make your purchase, you can still get the sale price. Just bring in your receipt and the advertisement for the sale price, and you’ll be able to get a refund for the difference.

What If I Used a Coupon?

If you used a coupon when you purchased your pet food, you will still get a refund. However, the amount of the refund may be less than the purchase price, as coupons are typically only valid for one use.

How Do I Find the Nearest Walmart?

If you need to find the nearest Walmart, you can use the store locator on their website. Just enter your zip code and you’ll be able to find the store that’s closest to you.

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In Conclusion

As you can see, Walmart has a lenient policy when it comes to returns on dog food and other pet supplies. With these simple tips, you’ll be able to make a return with ease. Be sure to check the return policy before you make your purchase so you know what to expect. If you have any questions about returning pet food, be sure to ask an associate or reach out to the manager.


Featured Image Credit: Tyler Olson, Shutterstock

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