Central Bark Franchise
Dog daycare franchise with 'Whole Dog Care™' approach to boarding, grooming & training—strong brand, trusted model, growing demand—built on canine psychology.
$300,000
$55,000
38
2003
West Allis,WI
Robert Crawford
About Central Bark
Unleash your potential with Central Bark—where passion for dogs meets a proven franchise opportunity in the booming $123B+ pet care industry.
Central Bark is a leading national dog daycare and enrichment franchise offering much more than traditional care. Our fully interactive, behavior-based model is built on a Whole Dog Care approach—grounded in science-backed dog psychology—to support each dog’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Services include enrichment-focused daycare, boarding, grooming, training, and more—all under one trusted brand.
With a strong, growing customer base and a recurring revenue model, Central Bark offers franchisees the chance to build a rewarding business with purpose. Backed by extensive training, ongoing support, and a passionate community, it’s a chance to change lives, create a legacy, and thrive in a high-demand market.
Franchise Unit Trends & Revenue
38
3
$767,776
* in 2023
Franchise Fees
$55,000
Veteran's Fee: $44,100
6.0%
Gross Sales
2.0%
Gross Sales
Why Choose Central Bark?
Central Bark is more than dog daycare—it’s a purpose-driven business built on science, enrichment, and heart. Our diversified model includes daycare, boarding, grooming, training, retail, and memberships—providing franchisees with multiple revenue streams and a strong foundation for long-term, recurring growth.
Grounded in science-backed dog psychology, our Whole Dog Care approach supports each dog’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Required weekly attendance, low dog-to-staff ratios, and carefully tailored playgroups—based on size, personality, and energy level—create safe, enriching experiences that lift moods, build bonds, and enhance overall well-being.
Franchisees receive expert training in dog behavior, safety, daily operations, and marketing, along with ongoing support for site selection, zoning, and build-out. We also provide access to the latest tech tools, an easy-to-use scheduling app, and a network of annually tested, vetted vendor partners.
Founded in 1997, Central Bark is a respected, established brand in the thriving $157B pet care industry. If you’re ready to change lives, build a legacy, and lead with purpose, Central Bark is ready to welcome you.
Starting Costs & Investment Requirements
$569,200 - $1,394,250
$750,000
$300,000
Training & Support
Central Bark provides franchisees with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to operate their business confidently and successfully. Before opening, each franchisee completes a 10-day training program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on experience. Training covers dog behavior and handling, customer service, marketing, HR, safety protocols, and financial operations. Franchisees also gain access to a digital learning platform and a client management system with a built-in scheduling app to streamline operations.
To ensure a smooth launch, franchisees receive five days of opening support, including on-site assistance. Ongoing support includes access to business coaches, a detailed operations manual, monthly webinars, system-wide updates, and an annual convention. Marketing support includes national campaigns funded by a system-wide marketing fund, local launch strategies, and collaborative advertising in select markets. Technology tools help manage scheduling, reporting, and client communications. With Central Bark’s robust support system, franchisees are never alone in their journey—from launch through long-term growth.
History
Central Bark began in 1997 when founder Jackie Jordan opened the first dog daycare at a time when the concept was met with skepticism. Jackie envisioned a safe, nurturing place where dogs—now considered true family members—could play, socialize, and thrive while their owners managed increasingly busy lives. Recognizing the need for quality care for dogs in dual-working households with long commutes, she pioneered the idea of doggy daycare tailored to modern pet families.
Seven years later, with three successful locations and plans to franchise, Jackie partnered with Chris Gaba, a fellow dog daycare owner who shared her vision. Together, they expanded Central Bark into one of the nation’s leading dog care franchises. Today, Central Bark boasts over 40 open locations nationwide, with more than 30 additional centers currently under development. The brand continues to grow by partnering with passionate franchisees dedicated to delivering exceptional care and fostering strong community connections.
Ideal Candidate
At Central Bark, dogs truly are the heart of the business. Our franchisees combine a love for dogs with strong entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to community. If you enjoy working with animals, building relationships, and leading a dedicated team, Central Bark offers a fulfilling opportunity to grow a rewarding business.
The ideal candidate:
- Has a genuine love for dogs and their well-being
- Is passionate about entrepreneurship and eager to build a thriving business
- Follows proven systems closely to ensure consistency and quality
- Possesses strong customer service and communication skills
- Is a natural leader, committed to developing and motivating a team
As a franchisee, you will:
- Operate and grow your own Central Bark center, offering daycare, boarding, grooming, and training
- Build lasting relationships with pet parents and your local community
- Lead and inspire a team of pet care professionals delivering personalized, high-quality service
- Promote your business through local marketing and community engagement to attract loyal clients
If you’re driven by passion for pets and business success, Central Bark could be your perfect match.