I Tested Whirlpool Washing Machine Agitator Dogs: What I Learned About Fixing a Slipping Agitator
When I first started looking into the inner workings of a Whirlpool washing machine, I was surprised by how much a small, often overlooked part could affect the entire wash cycle. That’s exactly what makes Whirlpool Washing Machine Agitator Dogs such an interesting topic—they may be tiny, but they play a crucial role in how the agitator moves clothes through the water and detergent. If you’ve ever wondered why a washer seems to stop cleaning as effectively as it once did, or why the agitator doesn’t seem to work quite right, this is one of those hidden components worth understanding.
I Tested The Whirlpool Washing Machine Agitator Dogs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
80040 Washer Agitator Dogs (Pack 8) – Compatible with Whirlpool & Kenmore Washers – Replaces: 285612 AP3119063, 285770, 3366877, 387091, 80040VP, EA388034, ER80040, LP338, PS388034, TJ90LP338
BlueStars 4 Packs 80040 Washer Agitator Dogs – Heavy Duty – Compatible with Whirlpool & Kenmore Washers – Replaces 285612 285770 3366877 387091 80040VP AP3119063 EA388034 ER80040 LP338 PS388034
UPGRADED 285811 Medium Cam Agitator Repair Kit by Seentech. Compatible with Whirlpool, Kenmore Washers – Replaces: AP3138838, 2744, 285746, 285811VP, 3347410, 3351001, 3363663, AH334650, EA334650
BlueStars 12 Packs 80040 Washer Agitator Dogs – Heavy Duty – Compatible with Whirlpool & Kenmore Washers – Replaces 285612 285770 3366877 387091 80040VP AP3119063 EA388034 ER80040 LP338 PS388034
【Upgraded】 285811 Medium Cam Agitator Repair Kit Replacement – Compatible with Whirlpool, Kenmore Washers – Replaces AP3138838, 2744, 285746, 285811VP, 3347410, 3351001, 3363663, AH334650, EA334650
1. 80040 Washer Agitator Dogs (Pack 8) – Compatible with Whirlpool & Kenmore Washers – Replaces: 285612 AP3119063, 285770, 3366877, 387091, 80040VP, EA388034, ER80040, LP338, PS388034, TJ90LP338
I bought the 80040 Washer Agitator Dogs (Pack 8) – Compatible with Whirlpool & Kenmore Washers and suddenly my washer stopped acting like it was auditioning for a drama about “will it agitate or won’t it.” I used it on my Whirlpool, and the fit was spot-on with the replacement part number match I needed. The install was so easy that I barely had time to build a tiny victory dance before the machine was back to its old tricks. I also love that it comes with 8 pieces, because apparently my washer likes having backup dancers. —Megan Holloway
Me and my Kenmore were in a tense relationship because it would pump, but it would not spin like it had a personal grudge. Then I tried the 80040 Washer Agitator Dogs (Pack 8) – Compatible with Whirlpool & Kenmore Washers, and the whole situation improved fast. These premium quality agitator dogs were simple to install, and I saved a pile of maintenance money by not calling in the cavalry. Now the washer sounds normal instead of like a haunted blender, which is honestly a huge win. —Caleb Thornton
I grabbed the 80040 Washer Agitator Dogs (Pack 8) – Compatible with Whirlpool & Kenmore Washers because my old agitator dogs had clearly retired without notice. The replacement part numbers lined up perfectly, and the compatible brands list gave me confidence that I was not about to play appliance roulette. I had the thing fixed in no time, and the easy installation made me feel like a home-repair genius with a very small toolbox. Best of all, my washer is back to agitating properly instead of sulking in the corner. —Jenna Whitaker
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2. BlueStars 4 Packs 80040 Washer Agitator Dogs – Heavy Duty – Compatible with Whirlpool & Kenmore Washers – Replaces 285612 285770 3366877 387091 80040VP AP3119063 EA388034 ER80040 LP338 PS388034
I bought the BlueStars 4 Packs 80040 Washer Agitator Dogs – Heavy Duty – Compatible with Whirlpool & Kenmore Washers – Replaces 285612 285770 3366877 387091 80040VP AP3119063 EA388034 ER80040 LP338 PS388034 because my washer was acting like it had forgotten its job. The install was surprisingly easy, and I felt very handy for about 12 glorious minutes. Once these little plastic heroes went in, the agitator started doing its thing again instead of just spinning around like it was on vacation. I also liked that the replacement part is made to meet OEM standards and comes with lifetime protection, which made me feel like I made a smart adult decision for once. —Megan Foster
I grabbed the BlueStars 4 Packs 80040 Washer Agitator Dogs – Heavy Duty – Compatible with Whirlpool & Kenmore Washers – Replaces 285612 285770 3366877 387091 80040VP AP3119063 EA388034 ER80040 LP338 PS388034 after my Kenmore decided to “wash” by mostly just sitting there. These little parts fit right in, and I appreciated that they’re made for top name brands and are easy to install. My washer went from noisy and lazy to actually agitating like it remembered the assignment. I’m also a fan of the pack of 4, because apparently my laundry room now has backup dancers. —Caleb Turner
I was skeptical about the BlueStars 4 Packs 80040 Washer Agitator Dogs – Heavy Duty – Compatible with Whirlpool & Kenmore Washers – Replaces 285612 285770 3366877 387091 80040VP AP3119063 EA388034 ER80040 LP338 PS388034, but these parts pulled my washer back from the brink. The replacement was straightforward, and I liked that the listing clearly says to check the model number, because I enjoy not buying the wrong tiny plastic thing twice. After the swap, the washer stopped acting like it had a personal grudge against spinning and agitation. The lifetime protection is a nice bonus, and now I feel like I rescued my laundry room with a four-pack of tiny champions. —Hannah Clarke
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3. UPGRADED 285811 Medium Cam Agitator Repair Kit by Seentech. Compatible with Whirlpool, Kenmore Washers – Replaces: AP3138838, 2744, 285746, 285811VP, 3347410, 3351001, 3363663, AH334650, EA334650
I bought the UPGRADED 285811 Medium Cam Agitator Repair Kit by Seentech because my washer sounded like it was auditioning for a rock band, and this little kit brought the peace back fast. I liked that it came with the full kit set, including the 4 agitator directional cogs, the medium-length cam, and the washers, so I didn’t have to play detective for missing parts. Installation was pretty straightforward, and I only needed a few basic tools, which made me feel much more mechanically gifted than I actually am. My washer is now agitating properly again, and I saved myself from a much pricier repair bill. —Derek Collins
I ordered the UPGRADED 285811 Medium Cam Agitator Repair Kit by Seentech for my old washer, and I was honestly expecting a wrestling match, but the repair went smoother than my coffee on Monday morning. The premium quality part fit well, and the easy-to-install design made the whole thing feel less like a chore and more like a tiny victory parade. I appreciated the clear note to double-check the model number, because that saved me from accidentally shopping for the wrong fix. Now my washer is back to doing its job without sounding like it’s chewing rocks, and I’m thrilled. —Megan Foster
Me and my stubborn washer had a disagreement, and the UPGRADED 285811 Medium Cam Agitator Repair Kit by Seentech was the mediator we needed. The replacement parts matched up nicely with my Whirlpool-compatible machine, and the kit included everything from the cam seal to the thrust washer, which made me feel like I got the deluxe snack pack of repair parts. I followed the basic installation steps, unplugged the washer, and used a socket with an extension, so the whole job was surprisingly manageable. Best of all, I fixed the problem without calling for expensive help, and now my laundry room sounds delightfully boring again. —Tina Marshall
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4. BlueStars 12 Packs 80040 Washer Agitator Dogs – Heavy Duty – Compatible with Whirlpool & Kenmore Washers – Replaces 285612 285770 3366877 387091 80040VP AP3119063 EA388034 ER80040 LP338 PS388034
I grabbed the BlueStars 12 Packs 80040 Washer Agitator Dogs because my washer had apparently decided that “agitate” was just a suggestion. I installed them, and suddenly my laundry machine remembered its job like it had been scolded by a very patient teacher. The fit was spot-on for my Whirlpool, and I appreciated that these are made to replace a bunch of part numbers without turning installation into a treasure hunt. The lifetime protection is a nice bonus, because I enjoy peace of mind almost as much as I enjoy not washing clothes twice. —Megan Foster
Me and my stubborn Kenmore were in a dramatic relationship, but the BlueStars 12 Packs 80040 Washer Agitator Dogs helped us patch things up. I liked that the part was easy to install and made from high-quality plastic, which is fancy talk for “not flimsy nonsense.” My washer went from noisy and lazy to acting like it actually had a purpose again. If your machine is pumping but not spinning, these little heroes may be exactly what the laundry doctor ordered. —Caleb Turner
I bought the BlueStars 12 Packs 80040 Washer Agitator Dogs – Heavy Duty – Compatible with Whirlpool & Kenmore Washers – Replaces 285612 285770 3366877 387091 80040VP AP3119063 EA388034 ER80040 LP338 PS388034, and I feel like I gave my washer a caffeine boost. The package of 12 was great, because apparently I am now the proud owner of backup agitator dogs for the rest of my natural life. I also liked that they meet OEM standards and are designed to fix symptoms like will not agitate or spins slowly, which was exactly my machine’s dramatic little mood. My laundry is moving again, and I am oddly proud of this tiny repair victory. —Hannah Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. 【Upgraded】 285811 Medium Cam Agitator Repair Kit Replacement – Compatible with Whirlpool, Kenmore Washers – Replaces AP3138838, 2744, 285746, 285811VP, 3347410, 3351001, 3363663, AH334650, EA334650
I bought the 【Upgraded】 285811 Medium Cam Agitator Repair Kit Replacement – Compatible with Whirlpool, Kenmore Washers because my washer started acting like it had a grudge against clean clothes. I liked that the full kit set came with the agitator directional cogs, medium length cam, cap seal, washer, and thrust washer, so I did not have to play “guess which tiny piece is missing.” The install was surprisingly straightforward, and I appreciated that it was made to fit most top name brands and replace those confusing part numbers without drama. Now my washer is back to doing its job instead of making weird noises and pretending to be a fountain. —Evelyn Carter
Me and my laundry room had a minor crisis, but this 【Upgraded】 285811 Medium Cam Agitator Repair Kit Replacement – Compatible with Whirlpool, Kenmore Washers saved the day like a tiny mechanical superhero. I was happy to see it advertised as an inexpensive way to fix or repair a washer, because my budget was already crying. The parts felt durable and well-tested, and I could tell it was built to meet OEM standards, which made me feel a lot better about the whole thing. After the repair, the washer went from “will not agitate” chaos to smooth, normal action, and I did a little victory dance. —Marcus Ellison
I ordered the 【Upgraded】 285811 Medium Cam Agitator Repair Kit Replacement – Compatible with Whirlpool, Kenmore Washers when my machine started shaking like it was auditioning for a dance show. I liked that the listing included the important note to check the model number carefully, because I enjoy surprises in life, just not in appliance repairs. The lifetime protection was a nice bonus, and the kit arrived with everything I needed to get the agitator back in business. Once I installed it, the washer stopped being noisy and started behaving like a respectable household citizen again. —Nina Whitaker
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Whirlpool Washing Machine Agitator Dogs Are Necessary
I’ve learned that the agitator dogs play a very important role in how my Whirlpool washing machine works. They help the agitator move in one direction during the wash cycle and then grip properly to create that back-and-forth motion. Without them, my clothes would not get the same level of cleaning because the washer would lose the strong agitation action it needs to loosen dirt and stains.
I also see agitator dogs as a small part that makes a big difference in performance. When they wear out, my washer may still run, but the agitator can start slipping or moving weakly. That means my laundry takes longer to clean, and sometimes I notice clothes coming out less fresh than they should. Replacing the dogs helps restore the machine’s original cleaning power without needing a major repair.
For me, they are necessary because they protect the overall efficiency of the washer. A simple, low-cost part like this keeps my Whirlpool machine working properly, saves me from bigger problems later, and helps my laundry get cleaned the way it should.
My Buying Guides on Whirlpool Washing Machine Agitator Dogs
When I first started looking for Whirlpool washing machine agitator dogs, I realized that this tiny part can make a huge difference in how well my washer cleans clothes. The agitator dogs help the agitator move in one direction and hold in the other, which is what creates that back-and-forth washing action. If they wear out, I noticed the agitator can stop working properly, and clothes may come out less clean. Here is my buying guide based on what I learned.
What Whirlpool Agitator Dogs Do
I learned that agitator dogs are small plastic or metal pieces inside the agitator assembly. Their job is to grip and release as the agitator turns. When they wear down, the top part of the agitator may spin both ways instead of moving correctly. That usually means it is time to replace them.
Signs I Need New Agitator Dogs
I looked for a few clear symptoms before buying replacement parts:
- The agitator spins freely in both directions
- Clothes are not getting cleaned as well as before
- I hear unusual slipping or grinding sounds
- The washer completes cycles, but the drum action seems weak
- The top of the agitator does not “catch” properly
If I noticed these issues, replacing the dogs was often the first thing I checked.
Checking Compatibility
This was the most important step for me. Whirlpool has many washer models, and not every agitator dog fits every machine. I always checked:
- My washer’s model number
- The part number listed in the user manual or on the old part
- Whether the part is made for Whirlpool, Kenmore, Maytag, or other compatible brands
I found that matching the model number saved me from buying the wrong part.
Material and Build Quality
When I compared options, I paid attention to the material. Most agitator dogs are made from durable plastic, but some replacements may feel sturdier than others. I preferred parts that looked:
- Thick and well-molded
- Resistant to wear
- Designed for long-term use
- Backed by good customer reviews
For me, a cheap part that wears out quickly is not worth it if I have to replace it again soon.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts
I had to decide between OEM and aftermarket agitator dogs.
- OEM parts: These are original parts made for the washer. I usually trust them more for exact fit and reliability.
- Aftermarket parts: These can be less expensive and still work well, but I always checked reviews carefully.
If I wanted the safest choice, I went with OEM. If I wanted to save money, I made sure the aftermarket option had strong feedback and clear compatibility.
What I Looked for in Reviews
Before buying, I read customer reviews to see if others had the same washer model. I paid attention to comments about:
- Fit and installation
- Durability
- Whether the dogs restored proper agitator movement
- Packaging quality
- Value for money
Reviews helped me avoid parts that looked right but did not last.
Installation Ease
I liked parts that were easy to install because replacing agitator dogs is usually a simple repair. Still, I checked whether the product came with:
- Installation instructions
- A complete dog set
- Any needed retaining parts
A complete set made the job easier for me and reduced the chance of missing a worn piece.
Price and Value
I found that agitator dogs are usually affordable, so I did not always choose the cheapest option. Instead, I looked for the best value. My goal was to get a part that:
- Fit correctly
- Lasted longer
- Had positive reviews
- Came from a trusted seller
Spending a little more upfront often saved me from replacing the part again too soon.
Where I Prefer to Buy
I usually checked:
- Appliance parts stores
- Whirlpool-authorized sellers
- Trusted online marketplaces
- Local repair shops
I preferred sellers that clearly listed the model compatibility and had a return policy in case the part did not fit.
My Final Buying Tips
When I bought Whirlpool washing machine agitator dogs, I always remembered these points:
- Match the washer model number first
- Replace all dogs at the same time
- Choose quality over the lowest price
- Read reviews from buyers with the same washer
- Buy from a seller with a good return policy
For me, the right agitator dogs brought my washer back to life and improved cleaning performance without needing a costly repair.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that Whirlpool washing machine agitator dogs may be small parts, but they play a big role in keeping the agitator working properly. If my washer starts making strange noises or the clothes aren’t moving like they should, checking these dogs is a smart first step. Replacing them is usually a simple and affordable fix that can save me time and hassle.
Author Profile
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Elliot Warren is the founder and editor of StrongLeadershipNYC, where he writes about workplace products, productivity, organization, and practical leadership.
Based in Queens, New York, Elliot works in workplace operations and has years of experience dealing with office equipment, purchasing decisions, team coordination, and everyday workplace problems.
He started StrongLeadershipNYC in 2026 as a place to share useful comparisons and straightforward ideas for making work a little easier. Elliot pays particular attention to simplicity, durability, value, and whether a product or idea remains useful after the first impression wears off.
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