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What Comes in a BarkBox? Contents, Cost & FAQ

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a german shepherd dog playing with his chew toy

If you’re looking for a fun way to spice up your dog’s routine, you may have considered monthly subscriptions such as BarkBox. While all subscription boxes have unique features, BarkBox is known for its original box themes and ever-changing content. Specifically, you can expect two original toys, one yummy chew, and two bags of treats.

However, after receiving your first box, you can tailor your monthly boxes to suit your dog’s needs. If this sounds good to you, keep reading to learn how to set up a BarkBox subscription.

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How Does BarkBox Work?

BarkBox likes to keep things simple; once a month, they will send you a box full of toys, treats, and chews that fit the theme they have chosen for that month. For instance, during the holiday season, you might have an extra festive box of goodies for your pup to tear into!

Signing up for BarkBox is a breeze. First, navigate to BarkBox’s website, then create an online profile. From there, you will be prompted to answer questions about your dog, such as your dog’s size and dietary needs. You can also choose between BarkBoxes that are filled with plush toys and ones that are stuffing-free.

Afterward, you’ll choose your subscription plan. There are several to choose from, all with varying monthly prices–but we’ll dive into that later. The entire subscription process should take no more than 5 minutes.

More About the Contents of BarkBoxes

After receiving your first box, you can change the contents of your monthly boxes if something would suit your dog better. The toys are original and designed by BarkBox’s industrial designers, with every feature deliberately chosen to make your dog’s tail wag. While the original BarkBox subscription provides cuddly, plushy toys, you can opt for the Super Chewer subscription if your dog tears through softer toys.

The treats and chews are high-quality products crafted entirely in the United States and Canada, but not all ingredients are locally sourced.

BarkBoxes are customizable and allow you to personalize each box depending on your dog’s breed, size, play styles, food sensitivity, chew styles, and more. To start customizing, you can contact BarkBox directly and discuss your dog’s needs.

How Much Do BarkBoxes Cost?

BarkBoxes are relatively inexpensive, considering everything you get in each box. Two toys, two treat bags, and a chew can add up to a significant amount of money, assuming you get decent-quality items. But when you get them through BarkBox, you get these items for a reasonable price, and they’re delivered to your door.

There are three subscription plans for you to choose from:
  • $22 per month for 12 months. This is the best value plan.
  • $26 per month for 6 months
  • $35 per month for 1 month

If you want to test out BarkBox or order one as a gift for a friend, the 1-month subscription may be worthwhile. However, if you want a continuous supply of pet supplies, the other options may be better.

Unfortunately, BarkBox does not offer free shipping for these plans. However, if you customize your box to purchase more treats or toys, you may qualify for free shipping.

Can BarkBox Subscriptions Be Canceled?

Some subscription boxes make it a hassle to cancel, so it is understandable to wonder how easy it is to walk away from BarkBox if it is no longer suitable for you. Thankfully, BarkBox doesn’t make unsubscribing a chore.

Even better, BarkBox offers to help make things right if you or your dog aren’t happy with the subscription. They are willing to let you skip a box or cancel one entirely. Likewise, they allow you to pause your subscription at any time.

Are There Allergy-Friendly Options?

Pet parents of dogs with food allergies know that it can be tricky to find a safe product for their pups. If your dog has food allergies, there’s no need to worry—BarkBox has allergen-friendly options.

If your dog is allergic to beef, chicken, or turkey, BarkBox offers treats entirely free from these common allergens. If your dog is allergic to something else, the BarkBox team welcomes you to contact their customer service to see if any options will be right for your pup.

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Conclusion

BarkBox has a lot to offer for dog owners who want to give their puppy something exciting to look forward to. Each month is a new adventure, with unique themes that guarantee your dog sees something exciting with every box. There are plenty of customizable options for you to explore, giving you total control over your dog’s monthly packages. To learn more about BarkBox, check out their website to see what else they offer.


Featured Image Credit: Snezhana_G, Shutterstock

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