Can the All Dogs Unleashed agreement be modified orally?
All_Dogs_Unleashed Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| Provision | Section in Franchise Agreement | Summary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| s. | Modification of the agreement | Sections 18.1 and 18.2 | Must be in writing and signed by all parties |
| t. | Integration/merger clause | Sections 18.1 and 18.2 | Only the terms of the franchise agreement and other related written agreements are binding (subject to federal law). Any other promises may not be enforceable. Nothing in the franchise agreement or any other related agreement is intended to disclaim representations contained in this franchise disclosure document. Any representations or promises outside of the Franchise Disclosure Document and other agreement may not be enforceable. |
Source: Item 17 — RENEWAL, TERMINATION, TRANSFER AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION THE FRANCHISE RELATIONSHIP (FDD pages 30–38)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to All Dogs Unleashed's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchise agreement cannot be modified orally. Any modifications to the agreement must be in writing and signed by all parties involved. This requirement is detailed in Sections 18.1 and 18.2 of the All Dogs Unleashed franchise agreement.
This stipulation is common in franchising to prevent misunderstandings or disputes about changes to the original contract terms. By requiring written modifications, All Dogs Unleashed ensures there is a clear, documented record of any agreed-upon changes, protecting both the franchisor and the franchisee.
The integration/merger clause in Sections 18.1 and 18.2 further reinforces this by stating that only the terms of the franchise agreement and other related written agreements are binding, subject to federal law. Any promises or representations made outside of these written documents may not be enforceable. However, the FDD clarifies that this does not disclaim representations made within the Franchise Disclosure Document itself.
For a prospective All Dogs Unleashed franchisee, this means it is crucial to obtain any promises or agreements in writing and ensure they are properly incorporated into the franchise agreement or related documents. Verbal agreements or understandings, no matter how well-intentioned, may not be legally binding or enforceable.