To whom is the Hydrodog franchise fee paid?
Hydrodog Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT**
| Type of Expenditure (1) | Estimated Amount or Estimated Low ‒ High Range | Method Of Payment | When Due | To Whom Payment is To Be Made | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee (2) | $40,000 | $40,000 | Lump Sum | At the time of signing Franchise Agreement | Us |
| HydroDog Vehicle(3) | $1,000 (leased) $105,000 (purchased) | $2,500 (leased) $155,000 (purchased) | Monthly | Monthly | Approved Supplier |
| HydroDog Vehicle Delivery(3) | $0 | $5,000 | Lump Sum | By agreement with us or dealer | Third Party |
| Grand Opening Marketing (Per HydroDog Vehicle) (4) | $5,000 | $5,000 | Lump Sum | At least 60-days before opening | Us |
| Initial Tool Package (5) | $0 | $2,500 | Lump Sum | At the time of signing Franchise Agreement | Us |
| Construction, Improvements for home office | $0 | $1,000 | As Agreed | By agreement with provider | Lessors, Contractors, Subs |
| Professional Fees | $0 | $3,500 | As Agreed | By agreement | Third Parties |
| (lawyer, accountant, etc.) | w |
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (FDD pages 16–18)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hydrodog's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the initial franchise fee is paid to 'Us,' which refers to the franchisor. The table provided in Item 7 outlines the estimated initial investment for a Hydrodog franchise, detailing that the franchise fee is $40,000. This fee is paid in a lump sum at the time of signing the Franchise Agreement.
In addition to the franchise fee, other payments are made to Hydrodog. For example, the grand opening marketing fee, which is $5,000 per HydroDog Vehicle, and the initial training fee of $5,000 are also paid to Hydrodog. If a franchisee has less than 5 years' experience in grooming or is not a certified groomer, they must pay Hydrodog $2,500 for the Initial Tools Package.
Prospective franchisees should note that all payments and fees due to Hydrodog or its affiliates are non-refundable under any circumstances, including if the franchisee does not open for business or terminates the franchise relationship. This non-refundable policy is a critical factor to consider when evaluating the Hydrodog franchise opportunity, as it represents a significant financial risk.