Dogs & Cream Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Dogs & Cream is a modern fast-casual restaurant specializing in gourmet hot dogs and rich ice cream creations. Founded in 2018 by Eric Robinson in Racine, Wisconsin, the brand still calls Racine home, where it operates its main location along with other units. In 2023, Dogs & Cream launched its franchise program to bring its unique concept to markets outside Wisconsin.
The eatery is known for its handcrafted hot dogs, creamy custard, brats, burgers, and sides — all made to order with a focus on flavor and quality. Meals are typically ready in around five minutes, offering guests freshly prepared dishes that never sacrifice taste for speed.
What truly sets Dogs & Cream apart is its blend of premium quick-service food and genuine hospitality. Every item is cooked fresh, with no pre-made or heat-lamp food, maintaining a higher level of quality and cleanliness compared to traditional fast-food restaurants.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Dogs & Cream franchise? It costs on average between $279,000 – $799,000 to start a Dogs & Cream franchised restaurant.
This investment covers expenses such as construction, restaurant equipment, inventory, and initial operating costs. The total amount varies based on several factors, including the restaurant’s size and layout, its location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or buy the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $40,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $75,000 to $500,000 |
| Real Estate/Rent | $2,000 to $10,000 |
| Utility Deposits | $1,000 to $1,500 |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment | $120,000 to $170,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $8,000 to $12,000 |
| Insurance | $1,000 to $1,700 |
| Signage | $6,000 to $10,000 |
| Office Equipment & Supplies | $300 to $600 |
| Computer Equipment (Hardware, Software, POS System, etc.) | $1,000 to $2,000 |
| Pre-Opening Expenses | $1,500 to $3,000 |
| Training | $0 to $3,000 |
| Licenses & Permits | $1,000 to $1,500 |
| Legal & Accounting | $800 to $2,000 |
| Grand Opening Advertising | $1,200 to $2,000 |
| Additional Funds – Three Months | $20,000 to $40,000 |
| Total | $278,800 to $799,300 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Dogs & Cream franchise? A Dogs & Cream franchised location makes on average $301,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Dogs & Cream locations are there?
As of the latest data, Dogs & Cream currently operates two confirmed locations in the U.S.
What is the total investment required to open a Dogs & Cream franchise?
The total investment required to open a Dogs & Cream franchise ranges from $279,000 to $799,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Dogs & Cream franchise?
The ongoing fees for a Dogs & Cream franchise include a royalty fee of 5% of monthly gross sales and an advertising or brand fund fee of 3% of monthly gross sales. These fees support continued brand development, marketing initiatives, and operational support provided to franchisees.
Who owns Dogs & Cream?
The franchise is owned by the parent company CSG Hospitality, which oversees the operations of Dogs & Cream.
Disclaimer
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