Dogtopia Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)

Dogtopia, established in 2002 in Virginia, emerged as an innovative player in the pet industry by introducing the concept of “indoor dog parks” akin to children’s daycare centers. This model was a departure from traditional pet care services and signified a new era for dog daycare, combining the essence of safety, socialization, and education for dogs.
The franchise began its expansion in 2005, marking the beginning of its journey to becoming the fastest-growing pet franchise in the U.S.
Dogtopia sets itself apart with a multifaceted approach to pet care, offering services that extend beyond mere daycare to include overnight boarding, spa treatments, and, at some locations, grooming and training services.
The brand’s focus on creating a safe and stimulating environment for dogs is evident in their open-play spaces, equipped with protective flooring to safeguard the joints of their furry guests.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Dogtopia franchise? It costs on average between $608,000 – $1,269,000 to start a Dogtopia franchised store.
This includes costs for construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating expenses. The exact amount depends on various factors, including the location, and whether the franchisee chooses to lease or purchase the property.
Type of Expenditure | Amount (Low – High) |
---|---|
Initial Franchise Fee | $40,095 – $49,500 |
Initial Training Fee | $0 – $2,000 |
Initial Training Expenses | $1,000 – $5,000 |
Utility & Security Deposits | $5,500 – $17,500 |
Real Estate and Facility Coordination Fee | $15,500 – $44,500 |
3 Month’s Rent (3 Months after Opening) | $17,400 – $45,600 |
Leasehold Improvements | $575,511 – $818,533 |
Deductions for Landlord Contributions (Free Rent & TIA) | ($263,718) – ($177,493) |
Furniture, Furnishings & Equipment | $22,003 – $29,764 |
HVAC Equipment | $69,426 – $111,364 |
Exterior Signage & Graphics | $9,000 – $28,500 |
Interior Signage & Graphics | $13,500 – $24,500 |
Microsite & Social Media Account Set Up Fee | $700 |
Technology Systems | $8,300 – $32,600 |
Technology Fees (pre-opening period) | $1,750 – $3,000 |
Contact Center Fees (pre-opening period) | $0 – $1,050 |
Air System | $500 – $2,000 |
Initial Supply of Inventory and Operating Supplies | $14,598 – $19,723 |
Grand Opening Marketing | $15,000 – $25,000 |
Business Licenses & Permits | $2,000 – $44,000 |
Insurance (3-months’ premium) | $1,200 – $3,000 |
Professional Fees | $28,500 – $78,500 |
Additional Funds (3 months after opening) | $30,000 – $60,000 |
Total Estimated Initial Investment | $607,765 – $1,268,841 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Dogtopia franchise? A Dogtopia franchised facility makes on average $916,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:

This compares to $886,000 yearly revenue for similar pet retail franchises.
Below are 10 Dogtopia competitors as a comparison:
Dogtopia Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Dogtopia locations are there?
As of the latest data, Dogtopia operates 253 locations across the United States. The majority of these are franchise-owned, with a smaller number being company-owned. Texas leads with 39 locations, accounting for approximately 15% of the total.
What is the total investment required to open a Dogtopia franchise?
The total investment required to open a Dogtopia franchise ranges from $608,000 to $1,269,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Dogtopia franchise?
Dogtopia franchiseees are required a 7% royalty fee on weekly gross sales, alongside a 2% marketing fee. These fees support ongoing brand development and marketing initiatives, ensuring consistency and quality across all locations.
What are the financial requirements to become a Dogtopia franchisee?
To qualify as a Dogtopia franchisee, you must have a minimum net worth of $1,000,000 and at least $300,000 in liquid capital reserves. These financial prerequisites ensure that franchisees possess the necessary resources to establish and sustain a Dogtopia location effectively.
How much can a Dogtopia franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a Dogtopia franchise are approximately $0.92 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $0.92 million yearly revenue can result in $138,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns Dogtopia?
Dogtopia is a privately held company led by CEO and President Neil Gill. The company has received significant investment from Thomas Franchise Solutions (TFS), a firm specializing in franchise development. This partnership has been instrumental in Dogtopia’s expansion across North America.
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