Watch These Franchises in 2019

Whether they’ve been going strong for decades or they’re just starting out, the following franchises are ready to innovate and grow in the new year.

By Jim Gold

Dogtopia’s mission is to enhance the joy of dog parenthood and enable dogs to change our world for the better.

North America’s fastest-growing dog daycare, boarding, and spa franchise plans on growing its paw print. Dogtopia, which has already opened more than 80 locations across North America, aims to have more than 400 by 2021.

Peter Dufall, who opened Dogtopia of San Jose, California, in December 2017, understands why. The former factory operations director got into the dog daycare business to escape working with people who didn’t share his positive attitude and ambition.

“I wanted to work for myself,” Dufall says. Because he didn’t know enough to enter the burgeoning pet care industry by himself, he explored franchise opportunities.

“Every person I met at Dogtopia was my kind of people: practical and down-to-earth,” he says. “They have the same goals and attitude as me.”

The Dogtopia playbook is logical. The company’s staff members and other franchisees are approachable and helpful whenever there’s a challenge, Dufall says.

“I have a small footprint; I’m the Trader Joe’s of dog daycare,” he says. In San Jose, he also faces higher-than-average operating costs in rent and labor. Nevertheless, his business became profitable within about six months.

“If I can make money, anybody can,” he says.

Dog parents appreciate the daycare, and the ability to check on their dogs via Dogtopia’s webcams. Dogtopia’s website and mobile app also let dog parents make daycare, boarding, and spa appointments. At some locations, app users can request that Dogtopia employees greet them outside and help bring in their dogs.

Inside, dogs play in open rooms outfitted with protective rubber flooring. Coaches guide dogs through exercise routines and training to make sure the dogs socialize safely. Playrooms are grouped by size, personality, and play style to ensure dogs are happy and safe. Exposing dogs to a variety of people, animals, social interactions, and noises helps them to be more comfortable and better behaved at home and in new environments.

Dufall says it’s not unusual for an appreciative dog parent to note how tired and contented their dogs are after a stay at the daycare.