What must a Hydrodog franchisee who is already a dog groomer do prior to Initial Training?
Hydrodog Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
If you are already a dog groomer, you must complete and pass a skills assessment administered by us prior to Initial Training.
Should you fail to meet our standards in the skills assessment (as determined by us in our sole discretion), you will be required to attend a dog grooming academy of our choosing at your expense prior to Initial Training.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 43–166)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hydrodog's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee who is already a dog groomer must complete and pass a skills assessment administered by Hydrodog prior to Initial Training. If the franchisee fails to meet Hydrodog's standards in the skills assessment, they will be required to attend a dog grooming academy of Hydrodog's choosing at their own expense before Initial Training.
This requirement ensures that all franchisees, regardless of their prior experience, meet a minimum standard of grooming proficiency before they begin operating a Hydrodog franchise. This protects the Hydrodog brand and ensures a consistent level of service across all locations.
The skills assessment and potential requirement to attend a grooming academy at the franchisee's expense represent a potentially significant cost and time commitment for franchisees who do not meet Hydrodog's standards. Prospective franchisees should inquire about the specific criteria used in the skills assessment and the potential costs associated with attending a dog grooming academy if they do not pass the assessment.