Ending your BarkBox membership made easy

About BarkBox

BarkBox is a monthly subscription service designed specifically for dogs and their owners, delivering a curated box of toys, treats, and chews directly to your doorstep. Founded in the United States in 2011, BarkBox has expanded internationally and now serves customers across the United Kingdom. Each month, subscribers receive a themed box containing at least two innovative toys, two full-size bags of treats, and a chew, all tailored to your dog's size and dietary requirements.

The service has built a loyal following among dog owners who appreciate the convenience of having high-quality products delivered regularly without the need to visit pet shops. BarkBox works with various suppliers to source unique items that you won't typically find in standard retail outlets. The company prides itself on using natural ingredients in their treats and designing durable toys that can withstand even the most enthusiastic chewers.

What sets BarkBox apart from other pet subscription services is their attention to detail and customisation options. When you first sign up, you provide information about your dog's size, age, allergies, and chewing habits. This information helps BarkBox curate boxes that are appropriate for your specific pet. If your dog has food sensitivities, you can opt for boxes with limited ingredients or grain-free options.

The themed boxes are particularly popular, with creative concepts ranging from seasonal celebrations to pop culture references. Previous themes have included everything from "Bark to School" to "Game of Bones," making unboxing an entertaining experience for both dogs and their owners. Many subscribers share their unboxing videos on social media, contributing to BarkBox's strong online community presence.

Plans, features and pricing

BarkBox offers several subscription options to accommodate different budgets and commitment levels. The pricing structure is straightforward, with discounts available for longer subscription commitments. Understanding these options is crucial before you decide to cancel, as some plans may require you to fulfil a minimum term before cancellation becomes possible without penalty.

The monthly rolling subscription offers maximum flexibility, allowing you to cancel at any time without being locked into a long-term commitment. However, you'll pay the premium price for this flexibility. Most importantly, keep in mind that even with the rolling subscription, you typically need to provide notice before your next billing date to avoid being charged for another month.

The six-month and twelve-month plans offer substantial savings but come with important conditions. These longer commitments usually require you to pay upfront or commit to the full term. If you attempt to cancel before completing the contracted period, you may face penalties or be required to pay the difference between the discounted rate you received and the standard monthly rate for the boxes you've already received.

What's included in each box

Every BarkBox contains a minimum value that typically exceeds the subscription cost. Standard boxes include two original toys designed exclusively for BarkBox, two full-size bags of all-natural treats, and a meaty chew. The toys are often creative and well-constructed, designed to last longer than typical pet shop alternatives.

Additionally, BarkBox offers premium upgrades for subscribers who want even more value. The "Super Chewer" option is available for dogs who destroy standard toys quickly, featuring ultra-durable toys and tougher chews. This upgrade costs approximately £5-£8 extra per month but can be worthwhile for owners of particularly destructive dogs.

Customisation options

Subscribers can customise their boxes based on several factors. You can specify your dog's size (small, medium, or large), which determines the size of toys and portion sizes of treats. Food allergies and sensitivities can be accommodated, with options to exclude specific proteins or ingredients. You can also indicate if your dog is a heavy chewer, which influences the types of toys included.

Keep in mind that while BarkBox offers these customisation options, they may not always get it perfect. This is one reason why some subscribers eventually decide to cancel – their dog may not enjoy certain items, or the customisation doesn't quite meet their expectations.

Terms of service and cancellation policy

Understanding BarkBox's terms of service is absolutely essential before attempting to cancel your subscription. Many subscribers encounter problems during cancellation because they weren't fully aware of the conditions they agreed to when signing up. Let me walk you through the key points that affect your cancellation rights.

Minimum commitment periods

First and foremost, your cancellation rights depend entirely on which subscription plan you chose. If you selected a six-month or twelve-month plan, you've entered into a fixed-term contract. These contracts typically cannot be cancelled without penalty until the minimum term is completed. BarkBox's standard policy requires you to fulfil your commitment before cancellation takes effect.

For monthly rolling subscriptions, you have more flexibility, but there's still a notice period to consider. Most subscription services, including BarkBox, require notice before your next billing date. This usually means you need to submit your cancellation request at least 5-7 business days before your renewal date to avoid being charged for another month.

Notice periods and billing cycles

The notice period is where many subscribers make costly mistakes. BarkBox processes and ships boxes in advance of the billing date, which means they need adequate time to stop your next shipment. If you cancel too close to your renewal date, you'll likely receive one more box and be charged for it, even though you've requested cancellation.

Additionally, it's worth noting that BarkBox's billing cycles are based on your original sign-up date, not calendar months. If you signed up on the 15th of a month, your renewal date will be the 15th of each subsequent month. You need to track this date carefully to ensure timely cancellation.

UK consumer rights and protections

Under UK consumer law, you have certain rights that may override BarkBox's standard terms. The Consumer Rights Act 2015 provides protections for UK consumers, including the right to cancel certain contracts within a cooling-off period. For online purchases and distance sales, you typically have 14 days from the date you receive your first box to cancel without penalty.

However, this cooling-off period only applies to your initial purchase. Once you've passed this 14-day window, you're bound by the terms of the subscription contract you agreed to. Most importantly, if you signed up for a discounted long-term plan, the cooling-off period is your best opportunity to cancel without financial consequences if you change your mind.

Refund policies

BarkBox's refund policy is relatively strict. Generally speaking, they do not offer refunds for boxes that have already been shipped or for subscription periods you've already paid for. If you cancel a monthly rolling subscription with proper notice, you simply won't be charged again, but you won't receive a refund for the current month.

For annual or six-month plans paid upfront, cancelling early typically doesn't result in a pro-rata refund. Instead, your subscription continues until the end of the paid period, after which it won't renew. Keep in mind that some subscribers have successfully negotiated partial refunds in exceptional circumstances, particularly if there were quality issues with multiple boxes, but this isn't guaranteed.

Why postal cancellation is the most reliable method

After processing thousands of subscription cancellations, I can tell you with absolute certainty that postal cancellation using Recorded Delivery is the most reliable method for terminating your BarkBox subscription. Let me explain why this matters and how it protects your interests.

The proof of delivery advantage

When you cancel by post using Recorded Delivery, you receive trackable proof that your cancellation request was delivered to BarkBox. This proof is legally significant and can protect you if disputes arise about whether you cancelled in time or at all. Royal Mail provides a tracking number and confirmation of delivery, including the date and time the letter was received.

This documentation becomes invaluable if BarkBox continues to charge you after you've cancelled. You can demonstrate exactly when they received your cancellation notice, which establishes your compliance with any notice period requirements. Without this proof, it becomes your word against theirs, and resolving disputes becomes significantly more complicated and time-consuming.

Creating an undeniable paper trail

Postal cancellation creates a formal paper trail that online methods simply cannot match. Emails can be filtered to spam folders, online forms can experience technical glitches, and there's always the possibility that a company might claim they never received your digital cancellation request. A physical letter sent via Recorded Delivery eliminates these uncertainties.

Additionally, if you ever need to escalate your complaint to your bank for a chargeback or to a consumer protection agency, having postal proof of cancellation significantly strengthens your case. Financial institutions and regulators take formal written correspondence much more seriously than screenshots of emails or online forms.

Avoiding customer retention tactics

Many subscription services, including BarkBox, employ customer retention specialists whose job is to persuade you not to cancel. When you attempt to cancel through online chat or phone systems, you may encounter offers for discounts, free boxes, or other incentives designed to keep you subscribed. While these offers might seem attractive, they can also complicate the cancellation process and delay your actual termination.

Postal cancellation allows you to bypass these retention tactics entirely. You state your intention clearly in writing, send it via Recorded Delivery, and the matter is settled. There's no opportunity for persuasion, no lengthy conversations, and no risk of being talked into continuing a subscription you genuinely want to end.

Meeting legal requirements for formal notice

Under UK contract law, formal notice for contract termination is best provided in writing. While electronic communication is generally accepted, a physical letter sent via Recorded Delivery represents the gold standard for formal notice. This is particularly important if your subscription agreement specifies that cancellation must be provided "in writing."

Some companies interpret "in writing" to mean physical written correspondence only, not electronic communication. By using postal cancellation, you eliminate any ambiguity about whether you've met the contractual requirements for proper notice. This is especially crucial if you're cancelling close to your renewal date and timing is critical.

Cancelling by post - the complete guide

Now let me walk you through the exact process for cancelling your BarkBox subscription by post. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your cancellation is processed correctly and on time.

Step one: Determine your cancellation deadline

First, you need to identify your next billing date and count backwards to determine your cancellation deadline. Log into your BarkBox account and locate your renewal date. As I mentioned earlier, you need to allow at least seven business days before this date for your cancellation to be processed in time. To be absolutely safe, I recommend allowing ten business days.

Keep in mind that business days exclude weekends and bank holidays. If your renewal date falls on the 15th of the month, and today is the 8th, you might think you have seven days, but if there's a weekend in between, you actually have fewer business days than you think. Calculate carefully to avoid being charged for another month.

Step two: Gather your account information

Next, collect all the information BarkBox will need to identify your account and process your cancellation. This includes your full name as it appears on the account, your email address associated with the subscription, your delivery address, and your account number or customer reference number if you have one. Having all this information in your cancellation letter ensures there's no confusion about which account should be cancelled.

Additionally, note down your subscription type (monthly, six-month, or annual) and the date you want the cancellation to take effect. Be specific about whether you want to cancel immediately after the current subscription period ends or if you're requesting early termination.

Step three: Prepare your cancellation letter

Your cancellation letter should be clear, concise, and professional. It needs to include all your account information, a clear statement that you wish to cancel your subscription, and the effective date of cancellation. State explicitly that you're providing this notice in accordance with the terms of service and that you expect no further charges after the specified date.

Most importantly, keep a copy of this letter for your records before sending it. You might need to reference it later if any issues arise. I recommend taking a photograph or making a photocopy so you have an exact record of what you sent and when.

Step four: Send via Recorded Delivery

Take your cancellation letter to a Post Office and send it via Recorded Delivery. This service costs approximately £1.85 on top of standard postage, but it's absolutely worth the investment for the proof of delivery it provides. The Post Office will give you a receipt with a tracking number that you must keep safe.

Alternatively, you can use a service like Postclic, which streamlines this entire process. Postclic allows you to create, send, and track your cancellation letter digitally, providing the same legal proof of delivery without requiring a trip to the Post Office. The service handles the printing, enveloping, and posting on your behalf, while giving you a digital trail of the entire process. This can be particularly convenient if you're working to a tight deadline or simply want to save time.

Step five: Track your delivery

Use the tracking number provided by Royal Mail (or Postclic if you used their service) to monitor your letter's progress. You can check online when it's been delivered and who signed for it. Keep this tracking information along with your copy of the letter as proof that BarkBox received your cancellation request.

The letter should typically arrive within 1-2 business days for UK addresses. Once you see confirmation of delivery, you can be confident that your cancellation request has been received. However, don't assume the process is complete just yet.

Step six: Monitor for confirmation

After BarkBox receives your cancellation letter, you should receive some form of confirmation, either by email or post. This confirmation should acknowledge your cancellation request and confirm the effective date. If you don't receive confirmation within 5-7 business days of your letter being delivered, you may need to follow up.

Keep in mind that while you've done everything correctly by sending your cancellation via Recorded Delivery, it's still worth monitoring your email and post for confirmation. If confirmation doesn't arrive, you have proof of delivery to fall back on, but it's better to resolve any issues proactively rather than discovering problems after you've been charged again.

Step seven: Check your bank statements

Finally, monitor your bank statements around your renewal date to ensure no further charges appear. If BarkBox does charge you after you've cancelled with proper notice, you have grounds to dispute the charge. Contact your bank immediately and provide them with your proof of delivery and copy of your cancellation letter.

Most banks will initiate a chargeback process if you can demonstrate that you cancelled properly and the company charged you anyway. This is another reason why postal cancellation with Recorded Delivery is so valuable – you have concrete evidence to support your dispute.

The correct postal address for cancellation

This is absolutely critical: you must send your cancellation letter to the correct address. Sending it to the wrong location can delay or completely invalidate your cancellation attempt. Based on current information, BarkBox UK correspondence should be sent to their registered office address.

Here is the correct address for sending your cancellation letter:

• BarkBox UK
• Bark & Co.
• 55 Washington Street
• Brooklyn
• New York 11201
• United States

Yes, you'll notice this is a US address. BarkBox UK operations are managed through their US headquarters for administrative purposes, including subscription cancellations. When sending international post, allow extra time for delivery – typically 5-7 business days. This means you need to send your cancellation letter even earlier than you would for a UK address, ideally 14 business days before your renewal date to be absolutely safe.

Additionally, international Recorded Delivery is called "International Tracked and Signed" and costs more than domestic Recorded Delivery, typically around £6.85. However, this investment is worthwhile for the proof of delivery it provides. Make sure you clearly mark the envelope with the correct address and ensure you've paid sufficient postage for international delivery.

Common reasons people cancel BarkBox

Understanding why other subscribers have cancelled can help you evaluate whether cancellation is the right choice for you, and it can also inform how you approach the cancellation process. Here are the most common reasons I've encountered from former BarkBox members.

Cost considerations

The most frequently cited reason for cancellation is cost. While BarkBox offers good value in terms of the products included, spending £21-£29 monthly on dog toys and treats isn't feasible for everyone long-term. Some subscribers find that after several months, they've accumulated more toys than their dog can use, making the ongoing expense harder to justify.

Additionally, during times of financial pressure, subscription services are often among the first expenses people cut. The discretionary nature of BarkBox – it's a luxury rather than a necessity – means it's particularly vulnerable when households need to tighten their budgets. Keep in mind that if cost is your concern, BarkBox may offer retention discounts when you cancel, but you're under no obligation to accept these offers.

Product fit and quality issues

Some subscribers cancel because the products don't suit their dog's preferences or needs. Despite BarkBox's customisation options, not every dog enjoys every toy or treat. If your dog consistently ignores the toys or won't eat the treats, the value proposition disappears regardless of the subscription cost.

Quality concerns occasionally arise as well. While BarkBox generally sources good products, some subscribers have reported toys breaking quickly or treats their dogs didn't tolerate well. If you've experienced consistent quality issues across multiple boxes, cancellation becomes a reasonable choice.

Toy and treat accumulation

After several months of subscription, many households find they've accumulated more toys and treats than their dog can reasonably use. This is especially true for subscribers with smaller dogs or less active chewers. The monthly delivery that initially seemed exciting can start to feel overwhelming when you're running out of storage space for unused items.

Most importantly, some subscribers find that their dog has favourite toys and ignores new ones, making the continuous influx of new products unnecessary. If you're finding yourself donating or storing most of each month's box, cancellation might make sense.

Lifestyle changes

Life circumstances change, and these changes often prompt subscription cancellations. Moving house, changes in employment, or shifts in household finances can all make BarkBox less practical. Sadly, some subscribers cancel because their dog has passed away or can no longer enjoy the products due to age or health issues.

Additionally, some people cancel simply because they prefer to choose their dog's toys and treats themselves rather than receiving curated selections. After trying BarkBox for several months, they've discovered which brands and types of products their dog prefers and would rather purchase these directly.

Tips from former BarkBox members

Over the years, I've gathered insights from hundreds of former BarkBox subscribers about their cancellation experiences. Here are the most valuable tips and lessons learned that can help you avoid common pitfalls.

Cancel earlier than you think necessary

The single most important piece of advice from former members is to cancel earlier than you think you need to. Many people have been caught out by leaving their cancellation until what they thought was adequate time, only to find they were charged for another month because they missed the deadline by a day or two.

Given that you're sending your cancellation to a US address, allow at least 14 business days before your renewal date. This might seem excessive, but it accounts for international postal delays, processing time at BarkBox, and any unexpected issues. It's far better to cancel too early than too late – you'll still receive any boxes you've already paid for.

Document everything meticulously

Former members consistently emphasise the importance of documentation. Keep copies of your cancellation letter, your Recorded Delivery receipt, tracking information showing delivery confirmation, and any correspondence you receive from BarkBox. Take screenshots of your account showing your renewal date and subscription details.

This documentation becomes invaluable if disputes arise. Several former members have reported situations where BarkBox claimed not to have received cancellation requests or disputed the timing of cancellation. Having comprehensive documentation allowed them to resolve these issues quickly and get refunds for improper charges.

Check for automatic renewal clauses

If you're on a six-month or annual plan, pay careful attention to what happens when your initial term ends. Some former members have reported being automatically enrolled in rolling monthly subscriptions at the higher monthly rate when their discounted term expired, even though they thought their subscription would simply end.

Read your original subscription agreement carefully to understand what happens at the end of your term. If it automatically converts to a rolling subscription, you need to cancel before the term ends if you don't want to continue. Don't assume that reaching the end of a fixed-term contract means your subscription automatically terminates.

Consider timing around special occasions

Several former members wish they'd thought more carefully about timing their cancellation. If your dog's birthday or Christmas is approaching, you might want to time your cancellation to ensure you receive one final box for the special occasion. Conversely, if you've just received a themed box for a special occasion, that might be the perfect time to cancel while ending on a high note.

Additionally, keep in mind that BarkBox sometimes offers special themed boxes for holidays. If you're considering cancelling but want to receive a particular themed box, check the schedule and time your cancellation accordingly.

Use services that simplify the process

Many former members recommend using services like Postclic to handle the postal cancellation process. Rather than taking time off work to visit the Post Office, paying for international postage, and manually tracking your letter, Postclic handles everything digitally while still providing the legal proof of delivery you need.

The service is particularly useful for people who are time-poor or who find the prospect of international tracked mail daunting. You simply provide your cancellation details, and Postclic creates, sends, and tracks the letter on your behalf. You receive digital confirmation when it's delivered, giving you peace of mind without the hassle.

Don't feel pressured by retention offers

If BarkBox does contact you after receiving your cancellation letter with offers to stay, remember that you're under no obligation to accept. Some former members report feeling pressured or guilty about declining these offers, but if you've made the decision to cancel, stick with it unless the offer genuinely addresses your reasons for leaving.

Retention discounts are often temporary, and you might find yourself wanting to cancel again in a few months when the discount expires and the price returns to normal. Most importantly, accepting a retention offer can sometimes complicate your cancellation, creating a new contract with new terms that you'll need to navigate if you decide to cancel again later.

Learn from the experience for future subscriptions

Finally, former members often reflect that their BarkBox cancellation experience taught them valuable lessons about subscription services generally. Many now read terms and conditions more carefully before signing up, pay closer attention to renewal dates, and set calendar reminders well in advance if they're considering cancellation.

The experience of cancelling BarkBox can make you a more informed consumer for all subscription services. Understanding notice periods, documentation requirements, and the value of proof of delivery applies equally to meal kits, streaming services, magazine subscriptions, and countless other recurring payments. Take the lessons learned from this process and apply them broadly to protect yourself in future subscription commitments.