1997
38
$522,474
$49,000
$1,039,974
No
Central Bark Doggy Day Care is redefining pet care in the United States with its innovative Whole Dog Care philosophy. As one of the nation's largest networks of dog day care franchises, Central Bark offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to promote the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of dogs. From enrichment day care and grooming to training and boarding, each service is rooted in canine behavioral science, ensuring dogs receive the best care possible. This holistic approach not only enhances the lives of dogs but also provides franchisees with a proven business model in the thriving $123 billion pet care industry.
Proven Business Model: Central Bark's membership-driven model supports better socialization for dogs and predictable revenue for franchisees. The average annual revenue per unit is approximately $552,000, with an operating profit margin of 15.6%.
Comprehensive Service Offerings: Franchisees can capitalize on multiple revenue streams, including day care, boarding, grooming, training, and retail sales, making cross-selling easy and enhancing profitability .
Territory Protection: Each franchisee is granted exclusive territorial rights, reducing internal competition and allowing for focused market development .
Veteran Incentives: Central Bark offers a 10% discount on the franchise fee for veterans, recognizing their service and commitment
Established Year: 1997
Franchising Since: 2003
Franchise Units: Over 38 locations across the United States
Founders: Jackie Jordan and Chris Gaba
Headquarters: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Industry Category: Pet Care Services
Founded by Jackie Jordan in 1997, Central Bark pioneered the concept of dog day care, recognizing the need for professional care services for dogs. In 2003, Jordan partnered with Chris Gaba to expand the concept into a franchise model, leading to the establishment of Central Bark as a leading brand in the pet care industry
Central Bark understands that franchisee success depends on both operational knowledge and business support. They provide comprehensive pre-launch, operational, marketing, academic, and ongoing support:
Site Selection & Lease Negotiation: Franchise experts assist in identifying the best locations based on demographics, traffic, and local competition. They also help negotiate leases to ensure favorable terms.
Facility Design & Build-Out: Central Bark provides guidance on layout, equipment, and décor to ensure the day care meets brand standards and safety requirements.
Staff Recruitment & Training: Before opening, guidance is provided to hire the right team, including dog care professionals and administrative staff.
Grand Opening Planning: Central Bark helps plan and execute a launch strategy to attract customers from day one, including local promotions and media outreach.
Central Bark University Training: Franchisees attend a two-week immersive program at headquarters covering:
Dog behavioral science and safe handling procedures
Day care operations, grooming, and boarding protocols
Customer service and client communication
Staff management and scheduling
Financial management and reporting systems
On-Site Hands-On Training: Following the classroom program, franchisees spend one week at a fully operational Central Bark location, gaining practical experience in running daily operations.
National Marketing Strategy: Central Bark runs nationwide campaigns that drive brand awareness.
Local Marketing Tools: Franchisees receive templates for social media, email campaigns, loyalty programs, and event planning.
Training on Marketing Analytics: Franchisees are taught how to track marketing ROI and adjust strategies to maximize customer engagement.
Operational Assistance: Continuous guidance on improving efficiency, staff productivity, and customer satisfaction.
Regular Check-Ins: Franchise consultants monitor performance and provide tailored advice to help each location grow.
Technology & Systems Support: Access to Central Bark’s proprietary software for scheduling, billing, and customer management.
Continuing Education: Ongoing workshops and webinars keep franchisees up-to-date with the latest trends in pet care, business management, and canine enrichment practices.
Central Bark seeks franchisees who are passionate about dogs, entrepreneurially minded, and committed to delivering exceptional pet care services. Success in this franchise requires more than financial capability—it depends on enthusiasm, leadership, and hands-on involvement.
Franchisees should genuinely love dogs and understand their needs, behavior, and well-being.
A strong affinity for animals ensures authentic customer interactions and high-quality care for the pets.
Ideal candidates are motivated self-starters who are willing to take initiative and manage a growing business.
They should enjoy leading teams, solving operational challenges, and innovating to improve customer experience.
Previous experience in management, customer service, retail, or business operations is highly beneficial.
Franchisees must be capable of overseeing day-to-day operations, including staff management, scheduling, budgeting, and compliance with safety standards.
While prior pet care experience is helpful, it is not mandatory—Central Bark provides extensive training to fill any knowledge gaps.
Candidates must have sufficient liquid capital and net worth to cover franchise fees, start-up costs, and initial operational expenses.
They should be prepared for a hands-on investment, understanding that returns grow over time with effective management and marketing.
Central Bark is not ideal for passive investors. Franchisees are expected to be actively involved in daily operations, at least during the first few years.
Engagement includes staff supervision, customer interaction, and maintaining high standards of pet care.
Ideal franchisees are interested in establishing a long-term presence in their community, fostering relationships with pet owners and local organizations.
They should be willing to adapt marketing strategies to their local market while following Central Bark’s brand guidelines.
Franchisees should embrace Central Bark’s Whole Dog Care philosophy, which emphasizes the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of dogs.
They should prioritize ethical pet care, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement.
| Financial Parameter | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $49,000 |
| Total Investment | $522,474 – $1,039,974 |
| Liquid Capital Required | $200,000 |
| Net Worth Requirement | $500,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of gross sales |
| Marketing Fee | 2% of gross sales or $500/month |
| Average Annual Revenue (AUV) | $552,000 |
| Operating Profit Margin | 15.6% |
| Break-Even Time | Typically 2–3 years |
| Franchise Units (Current) | Over 38 locations across the USA |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Day care, boarding, grooming, training, retail sales |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | Included in total investment (depends on location & size) |
| Working Capital | Part of total investment, varies per location |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location, typically achievable within 3–5 years |
