Central Bark

Central Bark was founded in 1997 and began franchising in 2004 under the parent company Barkley Ventures Inc., which transitioned to the name Barkley Ventures Franchise LLC in 2022. Central Bark has been the vanguard of dog behavior and day care innovation since its inception, pulling from the most recent peer-reviewed research in the canine sciences. Combine this science with the company’s undeniable passion for dogs, and customers will see why focusing on exercise, socialization, and training make for a healthier, happier, and more adaptable dog – what Central Bark has branded as Whole Dog Care.

Currently, 35 Central Bark locations are established throughout the United States, with opportunities to grow in your community. Along with its top-rated doggy day care, Central Bark provides the following services: salon and spa, sleepovers and boarding options, training and enrichment, group play skills, and well-reviewed dog products and supplies in the Central Bark Market.

Why a Central Bark Franchise May be Right for You

An ideal Central Bark franchisee is a dog lover with an entrepreneurial spirit and passion. Current franchisees come from all walks of life, careers, and industries and desire to take control of their professional path, growth, and trajectory.

The benefits of opening a Central Bark franchise are that for over 20 years, it has created a very successful business model maintained by a team of business and marketing professionals who are experts in franchising and the pet care industry; this team will be supporting and advising you in each step of the franchising process.

Why is a Central Bark Franchise a Good Choice?

Financially, Central Bark is moving in a positive direction at a tremendous clip. Central Bark locations have gone from an AUV of $446,855 (2020) to $604,955 (2021) to $731,602 (2022), with the highest sales store at $1,376,540 in 2022 (compared to $1,082,428 (2021) and $741,715 (2020)). 

Moreover, 45.5% of the locations (15) exceeded the AUV in 2022. This, again, is an improvement compared to the previous two years. In 2021, 41.9% of the locations (13) exceeded the AUV. And in 2020, 38.5% of Central Barks (10) exceeded the AUV.

Operationally, franchisees will experience ongoing support, including continuous research to maximize and develop new ideas, a targeted marketing program with advertising, public relations efforts, and social media. Additionally, franchisees receive programs, processes, procedures, and technology to provide superb customer service.

Before making any financial commitment or signing an agreement, you must perform your due diligence and establish if this opportunity makes sense for you.

To be part of the Central Bark team, you should make sure you're financially ready for an initial investment made up of a franchise fee and other startup costs. In addition, you should prepare yourself for ongoing fees, including advertising, royalty, and potential renewal fees. A typical franchise agreement runs for 10 years. Franchisees must also meet the company's set net worth and liquid capital requirements.

How To Open a Central Bark Franchise

Once you've decided that Central Bark is a good match for you, fill out an information request form. The franchise development team at Central Bark will then contact you to begin the initial qualification process. Once we’ve determined your qualifications and answered all of your questions, he will further explain the franchise screening and discovery process. You will also be expected to review the Central Bark Franchise Disclosure Document.

After reading the Franchise Disclosure Document and completing any other phone calls with the franchise development team, your file will be reviewed by the Central Bark executive team, who will then schedule a phone interview with you if they approve your application. The last step will be for you to attend the franchise discovery day, and if all parties are in agreement, you will be awarded a Central Bark franchise.