Should I Buy an Existing Dog Daycare, Franchise, or Open My Own Independent Store?

Introduction:
If there’s one thing we’ve learned at Dogdrop, it’s that location can make or break a dog daycare. The right location means happy pet parents, healthy foot traffic, and a booming business. If you’re thinking about opening a dog daycare, whether as part of the Dogdrop family or on your own, here’s how to find the perfect spot.

Tip 1: Understand the Needs of Your Market

Start by researching the pet ownership rates and demographics in your potential locations. Areas with a high percentage of dog owners—particularly young professionals and families—are ideal. Look for neighborhoods with dog parks, pet-friendly businesses, and high walkability scores. At Dogdrop, we use advanced market data to help our franchisees find prime locations with high demand and low competition.

Tip 2: Accessibility and Convenience are Key

Pet parents want a daycare that’s convenient. Your location should be easily accessible from major roads or public transportation, and parking should be a breeze. Consider being near busy intersections or neighborhoods where your clients already spend their time—close to work, home, or local hotspots.

Tip 3: Space Considerations for Your Facility
You might think bigger is better, but that’s not always the case. You need just enough space to accommodate play areas, nap zones, and reception areas while keeping overhead costs manageable. At Dogdrop, we’ve perfected the small-footprint model, creating efficient spaces designed to maximize safety and play without requiring oversized locations.

Tip 4: Researching the Competition
Before settling on a location, take a look at the competition. Are there already established dog daycares in the area? If so, what sets them apart, and where do they fall short? Look for areas that are underserved—where pet ownership is high, but existing dog daycares are few and far between. Dogdrop franchisees benefit from our extensive competitive research and site selection assistance, ensuring they open in areas with the best opportunity for success.

Tip 5: Get Support When Needed
If you’re thinking about opening a dog daycare but are worried about finding the perfect location, franchising with Dogdrop could be your solution. Our experienced team helps guide you through the entire process, from selecting a location to setting up and marketing your business.