Established
2011
Franchise Units
10
Minimum Investment
$250,000
Franchise Fee
$40,000
Total Investment Range
$450,000
Home Based
No
Description
Instinct Dog Behavior & Training is one of America’s most trusted and science-driven dog training brands, known for blending certified behavior expertise with a compassionate, positive training approach. Over the years, Instinct has built a reputation for transforming the way families understand their dogs by offering personalized training programs, board-and-train services, puppy development programs, and behavior modification plans rooted in modern canine science.
What sets Instinct apart is its commitment to helping dogs and humans live happier, more harmonious lives. Their signature “Nature-Driven Nurture™” philosophy has resonated with pet owners nationwide, creating growing demand for behavior-focused training centers that prioritize wellbeing over quick fixes. As pet ownership surges in the USA and the demand for professional training expands, the Instinct franchise model offers entrepreneurs an opportunity to step into a purpose-driven, high-growth industry backed by a brand known for professionalism, credibility, and measurable results.
Whether you are passionate about animals or seeking a scalable service-based business rooted in community trust, Instinct Dog Behavior & Training delivers a compelling and future-ready franchise opportunity.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
Choosing Instinct Dog Behavior & Training means aligning with a brand that leads the industry in ethics, education, and behavioral science. There is rising demand for expert dog training—especially behavior modification—due to increased dog ownership, urban living, and a growing desire for well-trained companion animals.
Key advantages include:
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A proven, science-based training system backed by certified behavior consultants and years of field experience.
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A recurring revenue model through private lessons, board-and-train programs, puppy development packages, and behavioral consulting.
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Strong brand reputation built on transparency, safety standards, and consistent results.
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High-demand service sector with low competition among behavior-focused training centers.
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Comprehensive franchise support, allowing owners to operate successfully even without prior dog-training experience.
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Large and recession-resistant industry—the U.S. pet care market exceeds $100 billion and continues to grow annually.
Background
Instinct Dog Behavior & Training was founded in 2011 by Sarah Fraser and Brian Burton, two respected leaders in the canine behavior community. Both founders are certified dog behavior professionals with deep experience in canine learning, behavioral science, and humane training methods. Their shared belief that families deserved access to ethical, science-based dog training inspired the creation of a brand built on compassion, transparency, and measurable results.
The company began in New York City, where demand for modern, behavior-focused dog training quickly exceeded expectations. Over time, Instinct developed its signature Nature-Driven Nurture™ training philosophy, combining canine behavioral science with practical, reward-based training programs customized to each dog’s unique needs. This approach set Instinct apart from traditional training schools and helped establish the brand as a trusted resource for complex behavior issues, puppy development, and long-term training support.
As the brand grew, Instinct refined its operations, expanded its curriculum, and built a comprehensive training system used by all franchise locations. The company evolved into a franchise model to meet nationwide demand for qualified behavior consultants and structured training programs.
Today, Instinct Dog Behavior & Training operates 10+ locations across the United States, with a mix of franchise-owned and company-owned centers. The brand continues to expand as more entrepreneurs join the mission to help dogs and humans live happier, more harmonious lives.
Instinct is positioned within the fast-growing pet services and dog training industry, a sector strengthened by rising pet ownership and increasing awareness of canine mental wellbeing. With a strong foundation, respected leadership, and a proven training system, Instinct has established itself as one of the most trusted and forward-thinking dog behavior franchises in the country.
Support Training
Instinct Dog Behavior & Training offers one of the most comprehensive training systems in the pet services franchise industry. Their support is designed to ensure that every franchisee operates with the confidence and expertise required to deliver exceptional results.
Pre-Launch Support
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Site selection and territory analysis
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Facility layout assistance for training spaces, enrichment areas, and office setup
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Guidance on local regulations, zoning, and licensing
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Pre-opening marketing plan, launch strategy, and branding support
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Vendor sourcing for equipment, training tools, flooring, safety systems, and more
Operational Training
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Extensive hands-on training at a certified Instinct training center
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Instruction in canine behavior science, assessment processes, and training protocols
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Staff hiring guidance and onboarding systems
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Daily operations manuals covering scheduling, safety protocols, dog handling, customer communication, and service delivery
Marketing Support
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National brand recognition and ongoing PR initiatives
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Digital marketing guidance including SEO, paid ads, content strategies, and social media templates
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Local marketing plans tailored to each franchise territory
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Lead conversion strategies and CRM automation
Ongoing Support
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Access to updated training modules and continuing education
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Regular franchise meetings, webinars, and performance coaching
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New program rollouts and operational upgrades
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A dedicated franchise support team with behavior experts and business analysts
Franchisees benefit from a turnkey system that combines behavioral science, operational efficiency, and high-quality customer service.
Ideal Candidate
Instinct Dog Behavior & Training is ideal for individuals who love working with animals and want to build a meaningful, service-driven business. No prior experience as a dog trainer is required—just a passion for pets and dedication to learning the Instinct methodology.
Best-Fit Candidate Attributes
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Passionate about dogs, animal wellness, and community service
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Strong communication and people-skills
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Business management experience (optional but helpful)
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Ability to lead and develop a small, specialized team
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Comfortable managing operations, marketing, and customer interactions
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Willingness to follow a proven training and operational system
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Financial capability to invest in the business and scale operations
Location Preference
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Suburban or urban markets with strong pet ownership
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Areas with limited competition in professional behavior and training services
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Regions with demand for enrichment, puppy training, and behavior modification programs
Entrepreneurs who want to blend purpose with profitability will find Instinct an extremely rewarding opportunity.
Financial Detail
| Financial Category | Amount / Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Range | $250,000 – $450,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | $250,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 – $60,000 |
| Current Franchise Units | 10+ Locations Across the USA |
| Infrastructure & Build-Out | $120,000 – $250,000 |
| Training & Equipment | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Marketing Budget (Launch) | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Working Capital | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 6% – 8% of Gross Revenue |
| Brand Fund / Marketing Fee | 1% – 2% of Gross Revenue |
| Expected ROI Timeline | 18 – 36 Months |
| Break-Even Period | 12 – 24 Months |
| Primary Revenue Streams | Private lessons, board-and-train, puppy programs, behavior modification, group training |