1851

When a franchisor promises a prospective franchisee that they will have the full support of the brand’s corporate team, what exactly does that mean?Is the support emotional, financial, a once-a-year seminar? The answers to this question are critical questions to a new franchise owner’s success.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-ricciardi-5975805/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=what-type-of-support-should-franchises-offer-franchisees-2717870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Peter Ricciardi,</a> who has worked as a consultant for both franchisees and franchisors, has worked with a number of restaurant groups and, at the age of 25, became the youngest Burger King franchisee in history and grew from one to six locations. From both his own experience as a franchisee and his current career as a go-to-market strategist and content and ecommerce specialist, Ricciardi knows the ins and outs of franchising and stands firm that franchisee support happens even before that franchisee signs the agreement.&nbsp;“Franchisee success is going to depend in large part on the franchisor’s support,” Ricciardi said. “You're not there to be an independent business guy. You're there because you want established systems. The franchisor is going to provide you with access to the product, they're going to provide you with the marketing support, the ideas and the oversight to make sure that you're going to succeed.”Ricciardi says <a href="https://company.bk.com/franchising?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=what-type-of-support-should-franchises-offer-franchisees-2717870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Burger King’</a>s support started at the interview process, when the franchisor wanted to make sure that the agreement was in the best interest of both parties by conducting a stringent interview process.&nbsp;“You did not get accepted as a franchisee until you actually went through a week of hands-on training in the restaurant,” he said. “Essentially, it is volunteering for a week in a Burger King. Then they evaluate you, and you evaluate them, which is brilliant. Because some realized it was way too much hands-on work or maybe they didn’t like being around food. Some people found that it was too restrictive to be part of a franchise.”That’s why Ricciardi says “the most critical support happens before you buy the franchise.”<h4>Pre-Signing Franchisee Support</h4>The franchisor needs to do the due diligence to give the potential franchisee the opportunity to get to know the brand and see if it’s even a fit.&nbsp;Ricciardi also advises potential franchisees to be wary of brands looking to just sell one more location, and pointed to once-prominant brands like <a href="https://www.quiznos.com/franchising/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=what-type-of-support-should-franchises-offer-franchisees-2717870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Quiznos</a> and <a href="https://coldstonecreameryfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=what-type-of-support-should-franchises-offer-franchisees-2717870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Cold Stone Creamery</a>, which “don’t don't have half of the units that they had” as an example. However, Burger Kings and McDonald's have always lit up the U.S. map location wise and tend to stay that way because “well-run franchises rarely go away,” said Ricciardi. “If they do, it's usually because something catastrophic happened, like there was a major change on a road or the mill in the town closed down. They don't go away because they've done a very good job of evaluating locations, and they've done a very good job matching a franchisee to the franchise.”This level of success — opening and sustaining locations for decades — doesn’t happen by selling locations just because they are for sale. Selling a location to anyone with the means to buy it is a “lack of initial support,” stated Ricciardi. “Winning franchisors want to bring on winning franchisees, and this happens through a process.”Part of his Ricciardo’s work entails advising people on whether or not they should even pursue a franchise opportunity in the first place. When he is working with potential franchisees, he “forces them to first make sure that they understand what they're buying and the support they're going to get — that they're the right match,” said Ricciardi. “And then the second thing I make sure of is if they're buying an existing franchise. I want to know why a local franchisee is not expanding into that area. That's usually a telltale sign.”For example, If there are three franchise locations in an area and the brand wants to open a fourth, a potential franchisee will want to know why a local franchisee already in that town isn’t taking the opportunity.&nbsp;<h4>Considering First-Unit Franchise Locations</h4>Ricciardi notes that location-based franchises typically do best if nestled near a region of success, as that also plays into the support a potential franchisee is teed up for receiving.&nbsp;For instance, franchisees should observe if a brand is expanding to completely new regions far away from its initial area of success. This would limit the amount of franchisee support a potential investor might receive. A fast-food chain restaurant set to open its first location in Savannah, GA&nbsp; that had previously been regionally based out West is bound to have some hiccups. A potential franchisee should observe if new locations were company owned before the brand expanded, and how many. This demonstrates a careful approach to expanding and a corporate team that cares about who is growing the brand with them.&nbsp;“Some franchises will not go beyond a certain footprint because they believe that they lose control,” explained Ricciardi. “In fact, some of the best franchises in the country are regional and not national.”&nbsp;Another indicator of strong corporate support comes in the form of encouraging potential investors to talk to current franchisees. This will instill a sense of trust that the corporate team wants its franchisees to know each other, build each other up and share tips on how to run successful operations.&nbsp;“A franchisor who feels good about what they're doing is not at all worried about a potential franchisee calling other franchisees to ask questions.”Ricciardi stressed that while the most important element of franchisee support is the support that comes before buying, the close second is the support while preparing to launch.&nbsp;“There's nothing more critical than launching at the right time and doing it successfully because you never get a second chance to make a first impression. So the best franchises have a ridiculous amount of support in your first month, meaning they either have people on-site or on speed dial.”If the location is a new territory for the brand, it is critical that the franchisee receive in-person support to train the new owner and get a feel of the new market. “It's one thing being trained in an existing location where the brand is already thriving, but it’s another thing being trained in your market and catering to new customers.” The corporate team has to be willing to put that investment and time into a potential franchisee, and a franchisee needs to know to look for these things in order to have a successful operation.

What Type of Support Should Franchises Offer Franchisees?

1851 Franchise

Peter Ricciardi, startup strategist, brand guru and e-commerce consultant, says “the most critical support happens before you buy the franchise.” 

what-type-of-support-should-franchises-offer-franchisees

Layne's Chicken Fingers

Photo of Layne's chicken fingers & fries basket

Layne’s Chicken Fingers Ranked No. 366 on Entrepreneur’s 47th Annual Franchise 500

entrepreneur-franchise-500-2026

Right at Home

Right at Home Finishes 2025 Strong, Launches New Tech and Sets Sights on 2026 Franchise Growth

right-at-home-2025-growth-and-2026-outlook

Pigtails & Crewcuts

Pigtails & Crewcuts, kids haircuts, kids hair salon

 A Year of Expansion, Heart and Momentum: Pigtails & Crewcuts Looks Ahead to an Even Brighter 2026

pigtails-crewcuts-2025-year-end-2026-franchise-vision

Right at Home - Toledo Free Press Agg - 1851 Franchise

Toledo Free Press: Beneath the Surface — The Veteran Behind Right at Home

john-baldwin-right-at-home-franchise-perrysburg

Pool Scouts

Fort Worth Inc.: John Oldham Opens Pool Scouts Business in South Fort Worth Area

john-oldham-pool-scouts-franchise-texas

Buying a Franchise Masterclass

 Franchise Opportunities

Get Support Buying a Franchise

How to Buy a Franchise White Paper

How to Buy a Franchise

How to Sell Franchises

How to Grow a Franchise

Find a Franchise Supplier

1851 Franchise Opportunities

Franchisor News

Franchisor Power Rankings

FranCamp Mastermind Summit

Franchise Development Website Builder

Franchise Resources

Website Awards

Power Rankings

About 1851

Advertise on 1851

Contact 1851 Editorial

Terms of Use

1851 Login

GROWTH CLUB LOGIN

facebook

instagram

twitter

linkedin

youtube

1851 Agg - Jersey Mike's Franchise Growth Plan - 1851 Franchise

Jersey Mike’s Turns the Page With a Faster Franchise Growth Plan

jersey-mikes-franchise-growth-uk-ireland-expansion

2026 Franchise 500 design with Jersey Mike's, Dunkin', Taco Bell, Ace Hardware, and Kumon

The 2026 Franchise 500: New Rankings and Market Shifts

2026-franchise-500

Design with chart in background and "HELP WANTED" sign in forefront

Recent Data Reveals Cooling Labor Market, Further Fuels Franchise Growth Opportunities

climbing-unemployment-drives-franchise-growth

McDonald’s Faces Lawsuit Alleging McRib Contains No Actual Rib Meat

mcdonalds-faces-lawsuit-alleging-mcrib-contains-no-actual-rib-meat

Hardee's Franchise - ARC Burger Lawsuit - 1851 Franchise

Hardee’s Lawsuit Targets Franchisee as 77 Restaurants Prepare to Shut Down

hardees-franchise-closures-arc-burger-lawsuit

Scenthound Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

scenthound-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data

Sparkle Dog Care Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

sparkle-dog-care-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data

Men In Kilts Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

men-in-kilts-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data

Ellianos Coffee Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

ellianos-coffee-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data

Many people see their pets as part of the family. With that mindset becoming the norm, services like day care and quality boarding are no longer seen as extras, but as an important part of giving pets a happy, healthy life. This shift, coupled with a rising “do it for me” mentality and increased need for care due to return-to-office mandates, positions daycare and boarding concepts very favorably.For entrepreneurs looking to break into the industry and cater to growing demand, these 15 boarding and daycare franchises are great opportunities for 2026:<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-happy-cat-hotel-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2722849">Happy Cat Hotel &amp; Spa</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://happycatfranchising.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/happy-cat-hotel-franchise-costs">Growth Club</a></li><li>Investment Range: $398,000 - $878,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;12</li></ul>Happy Cat Hotel &amp; Spa carves out a unique and underserved niche in the pet care market by focusing specifically on cats. With a boutique model that provides a quiet, dog-free environment, the brand appeals to discerning cat owners. And, with themed suites, grooming services and a retail component, franchisees can capture multiple streams of revenue.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-the-dog-stop-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2723230">The Dog Stop</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://thedogstop.com/franchise-opportunities/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/dog-stop-franchise">Growth Club</a></li><li>Investment Range: $553,500 - $1,112,800</li><li>Unit Count: 35+</li></ul>The Dog Stop operates an all-in-one model that provides day care, boarding, grooming and training services. With a focus on safety and highly trained staff, the franchise appeals to pet parents with high standards and can be run as a semi-absentee model with the right people in place.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-dogtopias-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2721549">Dogtopia</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.dogtopia.com/franchising-us/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$543,095 - $1,399,180</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;285+&nbsp;</li></ul>Dogtopia is a premium franchise focused on dog day care. The brand has a membership model that encourages recurring visits, creating a stable and predictable revenue stream for franchisees.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-central-bark-usa-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725648">Central Bark</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://centralbarkfranchising.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$569,200 - $1,394,250</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;40+&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Central Bark leverages a science-backed, “whole dog care” approach. While its primary offering is doggy day care, it focuses on enrichment through play, learning and socialization, and it also gives dogs an ample chance to rest. The brand’s weekly attendance policy keeps dogs acclimated and provides predictable revenue for franchisees.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-dogdrop-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724575">Dogdrop</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.dogdrop.co/franchise">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$360,800 - $650,160</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;4&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Dogdrop is a modern, tech-forward brand that focuses on convenient pet care for busy pet owners, often in high-traffic neighborhoods. A smaller footprint lowers the initial investment and, by focusing exclusively on day care services, franchisees can elevate service and become the local experts.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-hounds-town-usas-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2721298">Hounds Town USA</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://houndstownusa.com/franchising/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$475,875 - $1,278,489</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;75+</li></ul>Hounds Town USA is a dog day care concept that uses a proprietary system to group dogs by temperament and psychology, encouraging safer, more comfortable play between animals. Because Hounds Town USA focuses on a dog-friendly, “no frills” build-out, initial costs can be lower than other day care concepts.<h2>Leader of the Pack</h2><ul><li><a href="https://leaderofthepackfranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$341,665 - $647,304</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;2</li></ul>Leader of the Pack is a full-service franchise. Though it began as a dog training concept, it evolved to provide day care and boarding services, too. One of the brand’s key differentiators is its cage-free approach, catering to pet owners who do not want their animals crated or in single kennels for the duration of their stay.<h2>K9 Resorts</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.k9franchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$2,280,530 - $3,604,802</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;48&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>K9 Resorts is a luxury “five-star hotel” experience for dogs, offering an elevated experience for discerning dog owners. The brand has state-of-the-art facilities and a model that focuses on higher-margin overnight boarding, which positions franchisees to reach profitability sooner.<h2>Camp Run-A-Mutt</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.camprunamutt.com/franchise/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$526,000 - $1,040,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;12&nbsp;</li></ul>Camp Run-A-Mutt’s cage-free model, which includes dogs being supervised 24/7, appeals to a large segment of pet owners. With additional amenities like splash ponds and live cameras, the brand has several differentiators that help it stand out in the market.<h2>All American Pet Resorts</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.allamericanpetresorts.com/franchise-opportunities/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $798,000 - $1,650,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;12</li></ul>All American Pet Resorts is a premium boarding facility that offers more of a “resort” experience. With a 24/7 human presence and pet “suites,” rather than cages or crates, All American Pet Resorts prioritizes comfort — and peace of mind for the pet parent — and a healthy, safe experience.<h2>Preppy Pet</h2><ul><li><a href="https://preppypet.com/preppypetfranchises/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$100,000 - $300,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;20+&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Preppy Pet is a lower-investment, high-potential pet care model. In addition to boarding dogs, the brand will care for cats, birds and small animals, which broadens the potential client base and diversifies revenue streams.<h2>Playful Pack</h2><ul><li><a href="https://playfulpack.com/franchising">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$286,250 - $489,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;12&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Playful Pack is a modern day care and boarding franchise that focuses on creating an engaging, enriching experience for each dog. By providing mental and physical stimulation, the brand stands out above other day care models that rely exclusively on play groups for exercise.<h2>Camp Bow Wow</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.campbowwow.com/franchising">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$1,216,577 - $2,037,471</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;220+</li></ul>Camp Bow Wow offers a full-service model that allows pets to receive grooming and training services while at “camp.” As a major national brand, Camp Bow Wow provides franchisees instant credibility, and the brand’s commitment to safety and transparency is an attractive attribute for pet parents.<h2>Pet Play Place</h2><ul><li><a href="https://petplayplace.com/franchise/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;<a href="https://petplayplace.com/contact/">Contact franchisor</a></li><li>Unit Count: 2</li></ul>Pet Play Place is a franchise brand focused on a fun, innovative enrichment experience. With day care and boarding, “oasis” play and themed events, the brand has multiple ways for franchisees to engage their communities and capture revenue.<h2>TailWaggers Doggy Daycare</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.tailwaggersdoggydaycare.com/franchising">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $712,300 - $1,107,667&nbsp;</li><li>Unit Count: 9</li></ul>TailWaggers is a day care and boarding franchise that offers all-day play, enrichment activities and careful socialization. With temperature-controlled facilities and no scheduled nap times, TailWaggers positions itself as a trustworthy provider for local pet parents.The pet boarding and daycare space is thriving, largely driven by pet owners who view their pets as family and are hesitant to leave them home alone or crated all day. With a range of models, from straightforward, lower-investment brands to niche, luxury concepts, there is an investment opportunity for any entrepreneur looking to get their start in the lucrative pet industry.For more information on pet-related franchise opportunities, check out these related stories on 1851:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/central-bark-celebrates-the-power-of-rescue-with-therapy-dog-petunia-2726159#stories">Central Bark Celebrates the Power of Rescue With Therapy Dog Petunia</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/industry/pet-animal-franchise-opportunities">How to Buy a Profitable Pet Franchise Business</a></li></ul>

Photo of group of dogs standing together in day care facility

Top Pet Boarding and Day Care Franchise Opportunities for 2026

top-pet-boarding-daycare-franchises

<a href="https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise">Chick-fil-A</a> is one of the most recognizable names in the quick-service restaurant industry. With its signature chicken sandwiches, customer-first culture and impressive per-unit sales, the brand is often at the top of the list for entrepreneurs researching restaurant franchises. But if you’re wondering how to buy a franchise with&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/the-rise-of-chick-fil-a-americas-number-one-chicken-franchise-2727483#stories">Chick-fil-A</a>, you’ll quickly realize that this opportunity comes with a unique set of requirements — and not everyone qualifies.<h2>Chick-fil-A Franchise Requirements</h2>Chick-fil-A is different from most restaurant franchises because it doesn’t take a large amount of money to get started.&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-much-does-a-chick-fil-a-franchise-cost-2715278#stories">The franchise fee is $10,000</a>, and applicants don’t need to show a specific net worth or liquid assets. The lower cost, however, comes with a trade-off. The company has one of the toughest application processes in franchising and places strict rules on how the business must be run.To be considered for a Chick-fil-A franchise, applicants need to show that they can legally run a business in the United States and have a solid professional background. The brand generally looks for people with at least five years of work experience and some history of leading teams. A clean financial record is important, too, since anyone with a bankruptcy on file won’t move forward in the process. The $10,000 franchise fee has to come directly from the candidate’s own funds rather than loans or gifts. On top of that, operators are expected to commit to the restaurant full time, which means stepping away from other active business ventures and putting all of their focus into building and leading their Chick-fil-A location.Candidates also need to be fluent in written and spoken English and commit to full-time, hands-on involvement in the restaurant. In fact, Chick-fil-A expects its franchisees to divest from any other active business ventures so that they can focus entirely on operating their location.Meeting these requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Chick-fil-A receives tens of thousands of applications each year but approves only about one percent, making the opportunity one of the most competitive in franchising.<h2>A Hands-On, Operational Model</h2>One thing that makes Chick-fil-A stand out is how it expects its restaurants to be run. Owners can’t just hire managers and step back like in many other franchises. Instead, operators are expected to be hands-on with the daily business.Chick-fil-A also keeps more control over key parts of the operation than most franchisors. The company chooses the location, builds the restaurant and provides the equipment. The operator’s main role is to deliver excellent service and lead a team that meets the brand’s standards.This is not a passive investment or a multi-unit opportunity. Chick-fil-A intentionally limits each franchisee to a single location, ensuring that operators are deeply engaged in leading their restaurant and contributing to the surrounding community. For many, this model is appealing because it emphasizes leadership and culture-building rather than simply financial investment.<h2>Why It Matters</h2>For people thinking about franchising, Chick-fil-A’s requirements show why the brand is both appealing and difficult to get into. The low cost to start, the strong name recognition and the sales numbers make it one of the most appealing restaurant franchises out there, but the rules and competitive selection process make it a tough opportunity to land.On the other hand, the strict operational structure, high profit-sharing arrangement and extremely competitive application process can make it a tough fit for entrepreneurs who want more flexibility or who prefer to run multiple concepts at once.If you are considering how to buy a franchise with Chick-fil-A, it’s important to carefully evaluate whether you align with the brand’s expectations. The operators who tend to do well are the ones who like being in the restaurant every day, working with their team and serving customers. For people who want to be closely involved in one business, the Chick-fil-A model can be both profitable and satisfying.For more info on Chick-fil-A, check out these related stories on 1851 Franchise:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/chick-fil-a-takes-the-crown-as-the-nations-premier-chicken-chain-2727486#stories">Chick-fil-A Takes the Crown as the Nation’s Premier Chicken Chain</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-owning-a-chick-fil-a-franchise-2725069#stories">The Pros and Cons of Owning a Chick-fil-A Franchise</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/chick-fil-a-emerges-as-the-leader-in-the-us-chicken-chain-industry-2727457#stories">Chick-fil-A Emerges as the Leader in the U.S. Chicken Chain Industry</a></li></ul>

Do You Qualify? A Look at the Chick-fil-A Franchise Requirements

do-you-qualify-a-look-at-the-chick-fil-a-franchise-requirements

Americans are spending more on their pets than ever before, and that trend shows no sign of slowing down. The veterinary medicine market alone is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2024/11/21/2985338/0/en/Veterinary-Medicine-Market-Size-to-Surpass-USD-53-47-Billion-by-2033-Straits-Research.html">projected to surpass $53.47 billion by 2033</a>, fueled by rising pet ownership and the growing demand for advanced, accessible care.&nbsp;At the same time, the broader pet wellness industry — from grooming and training to nutrition and in-home services — continues to expand as owners seek healthier, more convenient options for their animals. For entrepreneurs, this means there has never been a better time to explore franchise opportunities in the pet wellness and veterinary care space.With that in mind, here are 15 standout brands shaping the future of pet wellness and veterinary care franchising.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/doodycalls-franchise-deep-dive-2730086#stories">DoodyCalls</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://doodycallsfranchising.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/doodycalls">1851 Newsroom&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $76,450 - $93,850</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;100+</li></ul>DoodyCalls is a pet waste cleanup service that helps homeowners and property managers keep outdoor spaces clean. The company offers recurring yard cleanups, pet waste stations and odor-control products. With low startup costs and steady demand, it’s a simple business that solves a problem most people don’t want to deal with themselves.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-pet-wants-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2722308">Pet Wants</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://petwantsfranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/petwants">1851 Newsroom&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$137,850 - $219,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;160+</li></ul>Pet Wants makes and delivers fresh, small-batch pet food made with natural ingredients. The company has grown to more than 160 locations across the United States and plans to keep expanding. Franchise owners get to join a brand that focuses on healthy pet nutrition and has strong demand from customers.<h2>Pet Evolution</h2><ul><li><a href="https://petevolutionfranchising.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/pet-evolution-care-franchise">Growth Club</a></li><li>Investment Range: $595,300 - $1,225,500</li><li>Unit Count: 28</li></ul>Pet Evolution is a pet store that sells healthy food, grooming services, toys and treats for dogs and cats. The brand only carries premium food and also offers services like self-serve dog washes and a mobile nail van. Franchisees can also bring in steady income through a monthly membership program.<h2>In Home Pet Services</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.inhomepetservices.com/?go=franchise">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $9,200 - $31,000</li><li>Unit Count: 10</li></ul>In Home Pet Services offers in-home pet sitting and dog walking with a focus on reliable, local care. The brand was built by an animal professional and provides training, systems and marketing help for owners. It’s a low-cost way to start a service business for pet families in your area.<h2>The Healthy Animal</h2><ul><li><a href="http://www.thehealthyanimal.com/franchise/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $101,700 - $198,700</li><li>Unit Count: 2</li></ul>The Healthy Animal is a small pet wellness store that curates healthier foods, treats and supplements for dogs and cats. The team emphasizes “pet parenting” over basic retail and trains staff to guide customers. New franchisees get hands-on support from a leadership group with long retail experience.<h2>HydroDog</h2><ul><li><a href="https://hydrodog.com/mobile-dog-grooming-franchise-2/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $44,448 - $216,558</li><li>Unit Count: 25+</li></ul>HydroDog is a mobile dog-grooming franchise that brings a fully equipped grooming van to the customer’s driveway. The model is built for a low-stress experience and easy booking. Franchisees can also host community fundraisers to build awareness and give back.<h2>Sparkle Dog Care</h2><ul><li><a href="https://sparkledogcare.com/franchise">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$235,750 - $472,750</li><li>Unit Count: 7</li></ul>Sparkle Dog Care is a membership-based grooming studio focused on routine hygiene and quick service pet care. The model is designed for simple staffing, minimal equipment and paperless operations. Owners get technology tools and brand support to drive recurring visits and customer loyalty.<h2>Pet Depot</h2><ul><li><a href="https://petdepot.net/veterinary-franchise/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$200,000 - $986,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;5 (vet clinics) 22 (retail locations)</li></ul>Pet Depot combines veterinary services with retail to keep more pet spending under one roof. The system helps independent-minded veterinarians with build-out, purchasing power, training and marketing. Owners keep control of their practice while using group support to lower costs and grow.<h2>Scenthound</h2><ul><li><a href="https://scenthoundfranchising.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $328,099 - $549,869</li><li>Unit Count: 120+</li></ul>Scenthound offers membership plans for routine dog hygiene and wellness. Each visit includes its S.C.E.N.T. Check to monitor skin, coat, ears, nails, teeth and glands. The concept uses a tech-enabled, small-footprint model aimed at steady, recurring revenue.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-scoop-soldiers-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2721768">Scoop Soldiers</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://scoopsoldiersfranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $68,600 - $118,800</li><li>Unit Count: 100+</li></ul>Scoop Soldiers provides recurring pet waste removal for homes and properties. The franchise focuses on fast launches, centralized billing and strong marketing support. It’s a simple, schedule-driven service business built for scale.<h2>PetWellClinic</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.petwellfranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$286,450 - $498,450</li><li>Unit Count: 26</li></ul>PetWellClinic runs walk-in veterinary clinics focused on essential wellness and preventive care, plus basic sick visits. The clinics use a small footprint, transparent pricing and a streamlined operating system. Franchisees receive training, launch guidance and ongoing support, with options for multi-unit growth.<h2>PetSmart Veterinary Services</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.pvsownership.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $206,150 - $316,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;37</li></ul>PetSmart Veterinary Services is a veterinary clinic ownership model tied to a well-known national pet brand. The focus is convenient access to pet wellness and care in a standardized setting. Owners get a defined build-out and support structure to open and operate their clinic.<h2>Hike Doggie</h2><ul><li><a href="https://franchise.hikedoggie.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $94,450 - $213,800</li><li>Unit Count: 6</li></ul>Hike Doggie offers professional pet care with an outdoor, exercise-focused approach. Services center on safe, structured outings and reliable daily support for busy owners. It’s a simple service model designed to build steady local demand.<h2>Zoom Room</h2><ul><li><a href="https://zoomroom.com/franchise/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$318,500 - $497,050</li><li>Unit Count: 60+</li></ul>Zoom Room is an indoor dog training franchise that teaches owners to train their dogs through classes and social events. The concept uses a small team, a modest footprint and add-on retail to drive revenue. Strong word-of-mouth and repeat visits are core to the model.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/woofies-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-deep-dive-2727029">Woofie's</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://ownawoofies.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $180,423 - $294,651</li><li>Unit Count: 65+</li></ul>Woofie’s provides in-home pet sitting, dog walking and mobile grooming. Each location tailors services to the pet’s routine so owners don’t have to travel to daycare or a salon. The brand is part of a larger home-services platform and offers franchise training and support.From waste cleanup and grooming to nutrition and veterinary care, these franchise brands show how wide and profitable the pet wellness space has become. With industry growth projected to keep climbing, opportunities exist at every investment level for entrepreneurs who want to serve the millions of households treating pets like family. For those ready to combine a love of animals with a proven business model, now is the time to make a move.For more information on pet-related franchise opportunities, check out these related stories on 1851:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/petbar/petbar-franchise-opportunity-2729672">petbar Franchisees Win the $6.89B Global Market With Complete Transparency, Self-Service and Membership Models, Creating the Happiest Place for Dogs</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/pet-wants-mona-pradhan-franchisee-feature-2729535#stories">How This Pet Lover Turned Her Dog’s Health Journey Into a Business Mission with Pet Wants</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/dog-training-elite-franchising-model-2725692#stories">Franchise Domination: Dog Training Elite Breaks Down Franchising</a></li></ul>

The Top 15 Pet Wellness and Vet Care Franchises for 2025

The Top 15 Pet Wellness and Vet Care Franchises for 2026

top-pet-wellness-franchise-opportunities

Americans are spending more on their pets than ever before. Data from the&nbsp;<a href="https://americanpetproducts.org/industry-trends-and-stats">American Pet Products Association&nbsp;</a>shows the industry hit $152 billion in 2024, and sales are expected to reach $157 billion in 2025.With 77% of pet owners saying the economy hasn’t affected their spending, pet supply and retail franchises are positioned to thrive in this environment of steady consumer demand and rising industry growth.For entrepreneurs, this resilience makes pet supply and retail franchises an appealing path to ownership right now. Here are 15 top options to consider.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-pet-wants-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2722308">Pet Wants</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://petwantsfranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/petwants">1851 Newsroom&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $137,850 - $219,000</li><li>Unit Count: 160+</li></ul>Pet Wants sells fresh, small-batch pet food and wellness products delivered straight to pet owners. The brand started in 2010 and has grown into a flexible franchise model with mobile and retail options. Owners benefit from strong community engagement and a scalable system.<h2>Pet Evolution</h2><ul><li><a href="https://petevolutionfranchising.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/pet-evolution-care-franchise">Growth Club</a></li><li>Investment Range: $595,300 - $1,225,500</li><li>Unit Count: 28</li></ul>Pet Evolution calls itself the “Whole Foods for Pets,” offering premium food, grooming, toys and a self-serve dog wash. The brand also created a Good Life Membership and a Mobile Nail Van for steady, recurring income. With a focus on healthy food and high standards, it appeals to pet owners who want the best for their animals.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-the-dog-stop-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2723230">The Dog Stop</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://thedogstop.com/franchise-opportunities/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/dog-stop-franchise">Growth Club</a></li><li>Investment Range: $553,500 - $1,112,800</li><li>Unit Count: 35+</li></ul>The Dog Stop is a full-service pet care center with day care, boarding, grooming, training and retail. Dogs enjoy indoor and outdoor play yards while owners find food, toys and treats in the store. It’s designed as a one-stop shop for dogs and their families.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-pet-supplies-plus-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2721654">Pet Supplies Plus</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.petsuppliesplusfranchising.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $540,520 - $1,975,005</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;735+</li></ul>Pet Supplies Plus is one of the largest pet retail chains in the country with a neighborhood-style approach. Stores carry food, supplies, small animals and offer grooming and wash stations. Founded in 1988, the brand continues to expand nationwide.<h2>Wild Birds Unlimited</h2><ul><li><a href="https://franchise.wbu.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $226,601 - $378,977</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;340+</li></ul>Wild Birds Unlimited sells products for backyard bird feeding and nature watching. Customers can find bird food, feeders and accessories in its stores across North America. The franchise has grown to more than 300 locations by serving a loyal community of bird enthusiasts.<h2>Petland</h2><ul><li><a href="https://petland.com/franchise-opportunities/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $315,500 - $1,080,500</li><li>Unit Count: 200+ worldwide</li></ul>Petland has been around since 1967 and now operates worldwide. The stores sell pets, food, and supplies, and also focus on animal care and adoption programs. Franchisees benefit from a long history, strong systems and an international presence.<h2>Ben's Barketplace</h2><ul><li><a href="https://bensbarketplace.com/own-a-bens/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $241,500 - $414,500</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;10</li></ul>Ben’s Barketplace is a small chain that sells premium food, treats, toys and other essentials for pets. The brand puts a big focus on healthy diets and natural products for dogs and cats. With 10 locations, it has built its reputation around community and local service.<h2>Pet Depot</h2><ul><li><a href="https://petdepot.net/retail-franchise/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$177,500 - $1,734,500</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;22&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Pet Depot runs in different formats, from full pet stores to veterinary hospitals and smaller Barkery shops. The company is known for carrying natural pet foods and giving franchisees strong buying power and marketing help. Owners get the backing of a big brand while still being able to keep a local, independent feel.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-earthwise-pet-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725581">EarthWise Pet</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.earthwisepetfranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $486,500 - $863,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;160+</li></ul>EarthWise Pet focuses on natural food, grooming and wellness products for dogs and cats. Many stores include self-wash stations and professional grooming services. With more than 160 locations, it combines specialty retail with growing consumer demand for healthy pet care.<h2>The Healthy Animal</h2><ul><li><a href="http://www.thehealthyanimal.com/franchise/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$101,700 - $198,700</li><li>Unit Count: 2</li></ul>The Healthy Animal is a very small but growing brand with just two locations. It focuses on natural, healthy food and products for pets. Owners get the chance to build a business in a niche with strong local connections..<h2>Woof Gang Bakery&nbsp;</h2><ul><li><a href="https://franchise.woofgangbakery.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $184,420 - $506,620</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;90+</li></ul>Woof Gang Bakery is a pet shop that also offers grooming and fresh-baked treats for dogs. The stores stand out for their bright look, boutique-style products, and personal service. With more than 90 locations, the brand has become well known in the pet retail market.<h2>Wag N' Wash</h2><ul><li><a href="https://wagnwashfranchising.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $520,520 - $1,357,600</li><li>Unit Count: 25+</li></ul>Wag N’ Wash is a pet store that sells food, toys and grooming products while also giving owners a place to wash their pets. The shops are designed to feel fun and welcoming for the local community. By mixing retail with services, the brand brings in steady foot traffic and repeat customers.<h2>Paw Street Market</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.pawstreetmarket.com/service/franchise-inquiries/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pawstreetmarket.com/service/franchise-inquiries/">Contact franchisor</a></li><li>Unit Count: 6 (Canada)</li></ul>Paw Street Market is a Canadian pet retail chain with six locations. It offers food, treats and supplies for dogs and cats. The brand focuses on local service and specialty products.<h2>Trophy Pet Foods</h2><a href="https://www.trophypetfoods.co.uk/franchise-opportunities/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a>Investment Range: £13,995 minimumUnit Count: 11 (U.K.)Trophy Pet Foods is a U.K.-based franchise that delivers British-made, natural pet food straight to customers’ doors. Franchisees act as nutritional advisors, offering free consultations and building lasting relationships with pet owners while providing ethically approved, premium recipes. With a proven system and strong consumer demand for quality and convenience, Trophy gives owners the chance to run a flexible business rooted in care for pets.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-hounds-town-usas-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2721298">Hounds Town USA</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.houndstownfranchise.com/">Franchise Website</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$475,875 - $1,278,489</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;75+</li></ul>Hounds Town USA offers day care, boarding, grooming and pet taxi services. Facilities are designed for fun, safe and affordable pet care. With more than 75 units, the franchise is growing quickly in the booming pet services sector.Spending on pets is at an all-time high, and demand shows no signs of slowing down. From small specialty shops to nationwide chains, these franchises give owners different ways to serve pet families. For anyone looking to run a business, it’s a chance to step into a growing market built around the bond people have with their pets.For more information on pet-related franchise opportunities, check out these related stories on 1851:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/dogtrainingelite/dog-training-elite-franchisees-go-from-the-oil-fields-to-the-dog-park-2726257">Dog Training Elite Franchisees Go From the Oil Fields to the Dog Park</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/petwants/how-pet-wants-franchisees-rapidly-grow-their-businesses-from-mobile-to-brick-and-mortar-locations-2726266#growing-a-franchise">How Pet Wants Franchisees Rapidly Grow Their Businesses from Mobile to Brick-and-Mortar Locations</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/petbar/petbar-franchise-opportunity-boutique-pet-grooming-2729681">How petbar Makes Pets and Their Owners Happy as Part of the Family in a Clean and Fun Environment</a></li></ul>

The Top 15 Pet Supplies and Retail Franchises for 2025

The Top 15 Pet Supplies and Retail Franchises for 2026

the-top-15-pet-supplies-and-retail-franchises

A new study indicates that United States companies&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/news/story/ai-drives-worst-october-layoffs-in-over-20-years-6748836/">cut more than 150,000 jobs this month</a>, the most positions cut in October in over two decades.Generally, the U.S. job market sees an increase in positions as the holidays near, with seasonal and temporary jobs ramping up in areas like retail, food service, hospitality, warehousing and logistics. But Amazon announced this week that it will lay off 14,000 corporate workers (cuts which could wind up being the largest in Amazon’s three decades) in addition to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/business/logistics/united-parcel-service-ups-q3-earnings-report-2025-stock-jobs-layoffs-1d954f75">nearly 50,000 jobs dropped by UPS</a> in 2025.Conducted by outplacement firm&nbsp;<a href="https://www.challengergray.com/">Challenger, Gray &amp; Christmas Inc.</a>, the new study states that the October cuts are the most significant since 2003, as the rise of the smart phone was beginning to take hold, upending the way business is conducted fast.What’s in play this time and how can it impact franchises?<h2>The Rise of AI</h2>Like smartphones before it, the brisk onset of AI is continually shaking up the way American work gets done.Overall, the U.S. has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.latimes.com/business/story/2025-11-06/us-companies-announce-most-october-job-cuts-in-over-20-years">lost more than one million jobs</a> in 2025 (the most since COVID radically altered the work landscape five years ago). Recent U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2025/ai-impacts-in-bls-employment-projections.htm">Bureau of Labor Statistics numbers</a> indicate that AI could take a particularly quick hold in the computing, business/financial, architectural/engineering and legal sectors.&nbsp;Historically speaking, as jobs disappear amidst layoffs, franchising has generally highlighted a road forward for those looking to invest in and take more control of both their futures and careers.<h2>The Impact on Franchising</h2>While the food industry continues to experiment with ideas like robotics and automation in an effort to simplify repetitive kitchen tasks and streamline processes, AI is typically utilized for two reasons: the quick delivery of data and improvement of overall work efficiency.While franchised restaurant chains have begun attempting to incorporate AI as part of a more convenient drive-thru experience, there’ve been&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ckgyk2p55g8o">hiccups</a>.&nbsp;But using AI to deliver reams of data insights has proven to be an invaluable tool when it comes to identifying trends, delivering more accurately-targeted marketing efforts while improving digital ad optimization, potentially boosting overall business.In terms of improving services like scheduling and inventory management, AI can have a positive impact on the work experience while enhancing productivity.&nbsp;On the customer side, AI-generated data can help franchised businesses better personalize the services offered to their customer base. It can also double as a much quicker way to assess areas for improvement as assessed via customer feedback and reviews. Chatbots and virtual assistants can handle ideas like customer inquiries and even reservations, simplifying processes while improving the overall guest experience.&nbsp;<h2>What’s Next?</h2>Like most tech, the onset of AI is progressing quickly in a largely unabated fashion.Even with the holiday package shipping season approaching, AI seems to be at least partially responsible for 2025 cuts in the warehousing and logistics sectors (as evidenced by significant recent cuts at both Amazon and UPS).&nbsp;While speculation tends to vary, some studies indicate that AI could eliminate&nbsp;<a href="https://fortune.com/2025/10/07/100-million-jobs-at-risk-of-elimination-senator-bernie-sanders-report-ai-kill-40-hour-workweek/">more than 100 million jobs</a>, especially in the entry-level or low wage sectors, over the next 10 years.But while areas like computing seem to face imminent peril, the franchising world continues to provide options for the independent-minded entrepreneur looking to take control of their futures and career.&nbsp;Read the original article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/news/story/ai-drives-worst-october-layoffs-in-over-20-years-6748836/">here</a>.For more recent news on AI’s impact on franchising, check out these related articles on 1851 Franchise:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/ai-is-reshaping-franchising-100-billion-valuations-and-hyper-localized-advertising-2729847#stories">AI Is Reshaping Franchising: $100 Billion Valuations and Hyper-Localized Advertising</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-franchise-brands-can-prepare-for-the-rise-of-ai-driven-advertising-2729548#stories">How Franchise Brands Can Prepare for the Rise of AI-Driven Advertising</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/coffee-and-analytics-ai-can-supercharge-your-franchise-content-marketing-2728309">Coffee and Analytics: AI Can Supercharge Your Franchise Content Marketing</a></li></ul>

AI-related job cuts, October U.S. job cuts, American job cut record

What Type of Support Should Franchises Offer Franchisees?

MORE STORIES LIKE THIS