Bark Busters
Bark Busters offers dog behavioral therapy, obedience training, and pet care services from home or remote locations. Known for comprehensive dog psychology education, this franchise supports customers with various dog-related needs in North America.
About Bark Busters
Bark Busters franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment necessary to begin operation of a Bark Busters franchise ranges from $77,900.00 to $117,000.00, according to [p.1].
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee is $49,500 plus applicable taxes, which is non-reoccurring and non-refundable. This payment will be deferred until the Franchisor fulfills its initial pre-opening obligations to the franchisee and the franchisee is open for business [p.185, p.191, p.80].
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
The franchisee pays an ongoing royalty fee of 10% of revenues [p.62, p.81]. Additionally, there are other periodic fees for services provided [p.62], though specific details about advertising fees are not specified in these excerpts.
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
The initial franchise agreement is for a term of five years [p.75]. You have the option to extend this agreement for an additional five-year Successor Term at the franchisor's sole discretion [p.75], though the franchisor is not required to provide notice or grant renewal.
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
According to the FDD, you cannot freely transfer ownership of your franchise without good cause, as specified by Bark Busters North America, LLC. The franchisor has the right to refuse such transfers except for valid reasons [p.170].
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
The franchisor may terminate the agreement on any grounds available by law [p.173]. Additionally, the franchisor's obligations for training services terminate upon the conclusion of the initial training, but this does not specify other potential grounds for termination by the franchisor.
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
You receive a protected territory ("Territory") in which to offer dog training, obedience, and therapy services. This territory is not exclusive, as you may face competition from other franchisees, outlets owned by the company, or competitive brands controlled by them [p.28].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides initial one-time training services that are completed upon finishing the franchisee's training [p.62]. Additionally, the franchisor offers marketing and other support services for the life of each five-year franchise agreement [p.62]. However, it is not specified whether ongoing technical or operational support beyond initial training is included in the standard package.
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
This isn't specified in the excerpts. The provided FDD does not give a total number of franchised outlets nor does it specify how many have closed or been terminated.
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
The franchisor does not make any financial performance representations other than the preceding one. If you are considering purchasing an existing business, the franchisor may provide actual records of that business, but no other financial projections or performance information is shared [p.41].
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You are required to sell products designated by the franchisor, such as recall leashes, training aids, Bark Busters training collars and harnesses, and books. You must purchase all business cards, brochures, brochure stands, promotional materials, uniforms, car signage, training equipment, website, and other supplies (collectively, 'Bark Busters Supplies') from the franchisor or a limited group of suppliers designated by them [p.17].