GoDog: Redefining Pet Hospitality Through Premium Franchising

GoDog is a premier pet hospitality franchise founded in 2018 by Jess and Ben Eberdt.

Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, GoDog offers a full suite of services including dog daycare, overnight boarding, grooming, training, and its exclusive GoDog: SOCIAL—a membership-based dog park and bar.

The company began franchising in May 2023 and is rapidly expanding across the United States.

What sets GoDog apart is its dedication to premium care and modern facilities.

Each location is built with high-end features such as saltwater pools, non-slip flooring, soundproof suites, and advanced HVAC systems. GoDog also emphasizes personalized attention, accommodating both social dogs and those who need individualized care.

Training

GoDog provides an extensive training program for franchisees to ensure effective operation and adherence to brand standards. Here are the key training programs offered:

1. Initial Orientation and Training: This mandatory program includes a two-day orientation for the Managing Owner, followed by approximately four weeks of training for the Managing Owner, general manager, and assistant manager. It covers management, sales, operations, and front desk responsibilities, combining 28 classroom and 17 on-the-job hours for management, and 18 classroom and 24 on-the-job hours for front desk operations.
2. Train-the-Trainer Program: Part of the initial training includes a module enabling senior personnel to train other Campus employees according to GoDog Brand Standards. This is crucial for internal knowledge transfer and ongoing employee development.
3. Ongoing and Supplemental Training: GoDog may require additional training throughout the franchise term for the Managing Owner, general managers, and assistant managers. These may be conducted at designated locations or locally upon request and are subject to applicable training fees and expenses.
4. Employee-Specific Training: Franchisees are responsible for properly training all Campus employees. GoDog may provide tools and updated training materials to aid in this effort.
5. Retraining and Replacement Training: If a Certified Manager is replaced, the new manager must complete initial training within 90 days. GoDog also offers retraining options when requested or required, for which the franchisee must cover costs.

Territory Protection

GoDog grants franchisees a designated territory in which to operate their Campus, but this territory is not exclusive. The franchisor retains the right to operate company-owned locations and authorize other franchisees within or near the same geographic area.

As a result, GoDog does not guarantee that franchisees will be free from intra-brand competition. This territorial policy allows GoDog to maintain flexibility in expanding its brand and responding to market demands.

While franchisees are granted a defined area for their operations, they should be aware that the franchisor’s ability to place other Campuses nearby could influence market dynamics and competition. This approach is fairly common in franchises seeking rapid or strategic growth.