3 MINUTE READ

The Shift From Salon to Driveway

The pet industry is booming and mobile grooming is leading the charge. What began as a niche convenience has become one of the fastest-growing segments in pet care, projected to expand by over 8% annually in the next decade (IBISWorld, 2024). The reason is simple: dogs are family, and families want comfort, trust, and convenience all at once.

Traditional grooming salons are busy, noisy, and often stressful for dogs. A mobile unit changes the entire experience – no kennels, no waiting rooms, no juggling drop-off schedules. The groomer pulls up, the dog hops in, and the care begins.For owners, it’s time saved. For dogs, it’s peace of mind. For groomers, it’s autonomy and better relationships with their clients. The emotional benefit — calm dogs, grateful owners…builds loyalty faster than any discount ever could.

Hydrodog franchise groomer and dog outside mobile grooming van

Why Franchise Owners Are Flocking to Mobile

Owning a mobile grooming franchise means tapping into a proven system that’s flexible and rewarding. Hydrodog’s model lets owners control their schedules, set their income goals, and build strong roots in their community. With our training, support, and brand recognition, franchisees skip the hardest parts of starting from scratch — vehicle setup, marketing, and operational systems are all streamlined from day one.

Franchise ownership also aligns with a purpose-driven lifestyle. You’re not just washing dogs; you’re making neighborhoods better. Many Hydrodog owners host community events, wash rescue dogs for free, and partner with shelters to raise awareness. It’s entrepreneurship with heart.

The Numbers Behind the Movement

In 2024, pet services hit $150 billion in annual spending, (American Pet Products Association, 2024) and grooming accounted for a major share. The mobile segment continues to outpace brick-and-mortar growth, largely because of lower overhead, scalability, and changing consumer behavior. Mobile units require fewer staff, offer flexible routes, and reach clients traditional salons can’t — especially in suburban and rural areas.

Hydrodog’s model is built for sustainability. Territories are data-mapped for demand and population, ensuring each franchise can scale responsibly. Most franchisees start with one van and quickly grow to multiple units once they see the demand — a sign of both strong market need and a replicable system.

Doing Good While Doing Well

Hydrodog’s mission goes beyond grooming. Every franchise is encouraged to engage in Do.Good events — from rescue washes to local fundraisers. It’s not just philanthropy; it’s brand identity. When communities see Hydrodog helping, they remember. The goodwill becomes its own marketing engine.

A Day in the Life

Imagine starting your morning by greeting wagging tails, working outdoors, and ending the day knowing you’ve made both dogs and people happier. You’re mobile, independent, and part of a national network that supports you every step of the way. There’s pride in that — and profit too.

The Next Step

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining your love for animals with business ownership, mobile grooming is the perfect intersection of purpose and potential. The industry is still young enough for new leaders to make their mark — and Hydrodog is the platform built to help them do it. Check out

See how our franchise model works — from first conversation to van launch, we’ll walk you through every step.