What must a Hydrodog franchisee do if they are not already a dog groomer?
Hydrodog Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- 6.7 Grooming School.
If you are not already a dog groomer, you must hire a lead groomer (who must be approved by us in writing) and successfully complete our designated online grooming training program prior to Initial Training.
The cost of the online training program, including but not limited to registration fees, materials, equipment, travel and living expenses, shall be your sole responsibility.
These costs are non-refundable regardless of completion or success in the program.
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, if a franchisee is not already a dog groomer, they must hire a lead groomer who receives Hydrodog's written approval. Additionally, the franchisee must successfully complete Hydrodog's designated online grooming training program before initial training. The franchisee is solely responsible for all costs associated with the online training program, including registration fees, materials, equipment, travel, and living expenses, and these costs are non-refundable, regardless of completion or success in the program.
If the franchisee is already a dog groomer, they must complete and pass a skills assessment administered by Hydrodog before initial training. Should the franchisee fail to meet Hydrodog's standards in the skills assessment, they will be required to attend a dog grooming academy chosen by Hydrodog at their own expense before initial training.
These requirements ensure that all Hydrodog locations maintain a consistent level of service and expertise in dog grooming, regardless of the franchisee's prior experience. This protects the Hydrodog brand and ensures customer satisfaction. Franchisees should factor in the potential costs of hiring a lead groomer, completing the online training program, or attending a dog grooming academy when evaluating the financial feasibility of opening a Hydrodog franchise.