20 PetSmart Interview Questions and Answers

Pets are part of the family, and PetSmart is dedicated to providing the best possible care for them. From food and toys to grooming and training, they offer everything pets need to live happy and healthy lives.

They are also always on the lookout for passionate and talented individuals to join our team. If you’re hoping to land a job at PetSmart, you can expect to be asked a variety of questions about your experience with pets, as well as your customer service skills.

In this guide, we’ve provided a list of sample PetSmart interview questions and answers to help you prepare for your interview.

PetSmart Interview Process

The interview process at PetSmart can vary depending on the position you are applying for. For some positions, like cashier or sales associate, the interview process may be fairly straightforward and quick. However, for other positions, like dog groomer or pet care specialist, the interview process may be more involved and include multiple rounds of interviews. Overall, the interview process is generally positive and friendly, with interviewer(s) asking mostly behavioral questions.

1. What is your experience with animals?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your experience with animals and how you interact with them. It’s important that you show enthusiasm when answering this question, as it can help the employer see that you’re passionate about working with animals.

Example: “I grew up on a farm where we had many different types of animals. I helped my parents care for all of these animals from a young age, so I have plenty of experience interacting with pets. In high school, I volunteered at an animal shelter where I learned even more about caring for animals. This led me to pursue a degree in veterinary science.”

2. Have you ever worked with a dog that was aggressive or difficult to handle, how did you manage it?

PetSmart is looking for employees who can handle difficult situations with their pets. This question helps them determine if you have experience working with challenging animals and how you handled the situation. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills, communication abilities and empathy for animals.

Example: “I once worked with a dog that was very aggressive toward other dogs. The owner had tried many different training methods but nothing seemed to work. I started by talking to the owner about what they were doing wrong and how it could be improved. Then, we practiced some exercises together so the owner knew exactly what to do when they were alone with the dog. After several weeks of practice, the dog’s behavior changed drastically.”

3. Are you comfortable working around dogs and other animals?

Working at PetSmart can involve interacting with a variety of animals, including dogs and cats. The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your experience working with animals. If you have no previous experience working with animals, consider sharing any other relevant skills that could help you succeed in this role.

Example: “I grew up on a farm where we had many different types of animals. I learned how to care for them by feeding the chickens, milking the cows and cleaning the pigs. I also volunteered at an animal shelter during high school, which gave me valuable experience handling various types of pets. I am comfortable working around all kinds of animals, although I do prefer smaller ones.”

4. How would you approach an upset customer who just found out their pet was sick?

This question can help the interviewer assess your customer service skills and how you would handle a challenging situation. Use examples from past experiences to highlight your problem-solving, communication and interpersonal skills.

Example: “I once had a client who brought in their dog for grooming and I noticed they hadn’t been taking care of its coat. When I asked about it, they told me that they were going through some tough times financially and couldn’t afford to take care of their pet as much as they should have. I offered them a discount on the grooming services and gave them advice on how to better care for their dog’s coat at home.”

5. Do you have any experience in grooming pets?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your experience and skills. If you have any grooming experience, be sure to share it with them. If not, you can still answer honestly by sharing what you do know about grooming pets.

Example: “I’ve never worked in a grooming facility before, but I did work at an animal shelter where we groomed dogs and cats on-site. We had a lot of volunteers who helped us bathe and brush the animals, so I learned a lot from watching them. I also took some online courses that taught me how to care for different types of fur.”

6. Which shifts are you available to work?

Employers ask this question to make sure you’re available for the hours they need. They also want to know if you can work weekends or holidays. When answering, be honest about your availability and try to show that you are flexible. If you have a preferred shift, mention it as well.

Example: “I am available to work any day of the week, including weekends and holidays. I prefer working during the evening because I find it’s a good time to interact with customers and pets. However, I’m happy to work whatever shifts are needed.”

7. Tell me about a time when you had to deal with an angry customer.

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle stressful situations. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to remain calm under pressure.

Example: “When I worked at my previous job, we had a customer who was upset because she couldn’t find her dog’s food in our inventory. She became increasingly angry as she searched through all of the shelves, so I asked if I could help her look for it. After searching for several minutes, we still didn’t find the food, so I offered to order some more for her. She calmed down after that and thanked me for helping her.”

8. If a client brought in a dirty animal what steps would you take?

This question is a great way to assess how you would handle difficult situations. PetSmart wants employees who can remain calm and focused in these types of scenarios, so it’s important to answer honestly and thoroughly.

Example: “If I encountered this situation at work, I would first ask the client if they have any cleaning supplies on hand. If not, I would offer to take the animal back to my station where I could wash them with soap and water. After that, I would dry the animal off and then return them to the customer.”

9. When was the last time you had to learn something new?

This question can help the interviewer get an idea of how you approach new challenges. Use your answer to highlight a time when you were able to learn something quickly and apply it to your work.

Example: “At my previous job, I had to learn how to use a new inventory system that was more advanced than what we used before. It took me a few days to fully understand all of the features, but once I did, I was able to use it efficiently. The new system helped us save money on our inventory management and streamline some of our processes.”

10. Why do you want to work at PetSmart?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your interest in their company. They want to know what attracted you to the position and why you’re a good fit for their organization. When preparing your answer, think of specific aspects of PetSmart that appeal to you. Consider mentioning any personal experiences with the brand or how you learned about the job opening.

Example: “I’ve always been passionate about animals, so I’m excited to work at PetSmart because it’s such an innovative company. I love that you offer services like grooming and training, which help pets live happy lives. I also appreciate that you have a strong commitment to animal welfare. For example, I read about your partnership with local shelters and rescue organizations. It’s great to see a company care so much about helping animals find loving homes.”

11. How well do you handle pressure?

Working in retail can be a fast-paced environment. Employers ask this question to make sure you’re comfortable working under pressure and that you have the ability to stay calm when things get busy. When answering, try to show that you are confident in your abilities and that you enjoy being challenged.

Example: “I actually thrive in high-pressure situations. I find it exciting to work in an environment where there is always something new happening. In my last job, I was often the person who stepped up when things got hectic. I am confident in my abilities and know how to prioritize tasks so that we can keep customers happy while still meeting our sales goals.”

12. Can you tell us about a time where you were working on a project and there was conflict between team members, how did you handle it?

This question is a great way to see how you handle conflict in the workplace. It’s important that your answer shows that you can work with others and resolve issues.

Example: “At my previous job, I was working on a project with two other employees who were both very strong personalities. One employee wanted to take a more aggressive approach to marketing while the other preferred a softer touch. The third person involved in the project was our manager, who supported the idea of using both approaches.

I met with each team member separately and asked them what their thoughts were about the situation. We all agreed that we should use both methods of marketing but also find ways to combine them for maximum effectiveness. After talking it out, we came up with a plan that worked for everyone.”

13. Describe a situation where you had to think quickly on your feet in order to get a task completed by a deadline.

This question is a great way to assess your problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to changing circumstances. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation that you faced at your previous job and how you overcame the challenge.

Example: “At my last job, I was tasked with organizing an event for our company’s annual conference. The day before the conference began, we realized that there were not enough chairs for all of the attendees. I had to think quickly on my feet and find additional seating options in order to ensure that everyone who attended the conference could sit comfortably.”

14. What strengths do you feel you could bring to our company?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you have done your research on PetSmart and its culture. It also gives you a chance to highlight any skills or experiences that are relevant to this role.

Example: “I feel my ability to work well with others would be beneficial to PetSmart because I am always looking for ways to help my coworkers succeed. I’m also very organized, which helps me stay focused on tasks and meet deadlines. My communication skills are another strength of mine, as I can clearly explain ideas and concepts to both customers and team members.”

15. How important is teamwork for you?

Teamwork is an important skill for many positions, including those at PetSmart. The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your ability to work with others and how you approach teamwork. To answer this question, think of a time when you worked well as part of a team. Explain what made that experience successful.

Example: “I’ve always been passionate about animals, so I decided to pursue a career in animal care. In school, I took several classes on working with animals and learned from my professors that it’s best to work together as a team. When caring for the animals, I try to communicate with other members of my team to ensure we’re all following the same procedures. This helps us provide excellent customer service while also ensuring the safety of our customers and their pets.”

16. Some of our products can be expensive, how would you convince someone to purchase one of these items from us?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you would sell products to customers. Showcase your communication skills and ability to persuade people by giving an example of a time when you convinced someone to purchase something from a store or business.

Example: “I once worked at a pet supply store where we sold dog training collars, which were quite expensive. I had a customer who was hesitant about purchasing one because they didn’t want their dog to feel pain while training. So, I explained that these collars are designed to be more like a vibration than a shock so dogs don’t associate it with being in pain. After explaining this, the customer purchased the collar.”

17. How would you describe your management style?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you would interact with your team members at PetSmart. Your management style is a reflection of your leadership skills, so it’s important to be honest about what type of manager you are and why.

Example: “I believe in being an approachable leader who encourages my team members to ask questions when they need help or have ideas for improvement. I also think that managers should set clear expectations for their employees and provide regular feedback on performance. As a result, I try to make sure everyone understands their responsibilities and knows how they’re doing.”

18. What kind of training programs have you participated in?

PetSmart is a company that values training and development. They want to know what kind of programs you’ve participated in, how they helped you grow professionally and if you’re willing to participate in their own training program.

Example: “I have taken part in several professional development courses at my current job. I also completed an online course on dog behavior last year because I wanted to learn more about the different ways I could help customers with their dogs’ behavioral issues. It was a great experience and I learned so much from it. I would be happy to take part in any similar programs here.”

19. What is your favorite part about working with animals?

This question is a great way to learn more about your potential co-workers. It also helps the interviewer get an idea of what you enjoy most about working with animals and how passionate you are about this career. When answering, think about what aspects of your job make you feel fulfilled or excited.

Example: “My favorite part about working with animals is seeing their transformation from when they first come in as strays or rescues to when they leave our store happy and healthy. I love being able to help them find loving homes where they can be cared for properly. Seeing customers fall in love with these pets makes it all worth it.”

20. We love people who go above and beyond for our customers, give us an example of a time when you went above and beyond for a customer.

PetSmart is a company that values customer service, so they want to know that you’re willing to go the extra mile for their customers. This question helps them determine if you have experience going above and beyond for your customers and how it can benefit PetSmart.

Example: “When I worked at my previous job, we had a customer who was looking for a specific type of dog food but couldn’t find it in our store. I went through all of our inventory to make sure we didn’t have any more of that kind of dog food before telling her we were out of stock. She seemed disappointed, so I offered to order some more from our headquarters and call her when it arrived. A few days later, she came back into the store with her dog and thanked me for ordering the dog food.”