Can a Hydrodog franchisee establish a website without prior written approval?
Hydrodog Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
All Websites (as defined below) are managed exclusively by HydroDog web designers and are considered "advertising" under the Franchise Agreement, subject to our review and prior written approval before use. This management includes access to the resource center, store, and vendor list. As used in the Franchise Agreement, the term "Website" means an interactive electronic document contained in a network of computers linked by communications software that you operate or authorize others to operate and that refers to your HydroDog Business, Marks, us, or the System. The term Website includes Internet and World Wide Web home pages. In connection with any Website, the Franchise Agreement provides that you may not establish a Website, nor may you offer, promote, or sell any products or services, or make any use of the Proprietary Mark, through the Internet without our prior written approval.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 22–30)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hydrodog's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are not allowed to establish a website related to their Hydrodog business without obtaining prior written approval from the company. Hydrodog manages all websites pertaining to the brand through its web designers, and these sites are considered advertising. This includes any interactive electronic document that refers to the Hydrodog business, trademarks, or the Hydrodog system.
Hydrodog retains control over internet activities related to the system, including social media. Franchisees need written consent to promote their Hydrodog business or use Hydrodog trademarks on social media or networking sites like Facebook, LinkedIn, or X. Hydrodog provides access to branded social media pages, handles, and assets, which franchisees must update regularly.
Hydrodog also reserves the right to create a website or electronic system for private communications between the company, its franchisees, and other relevant parties. If required, franchisees must establish and maintain access to this intranet as designated by Hydrodog. These measures ensure brand consistency and quality control across all online platforms associated with the Hydrodog franchise.