Live the dog lover’s dream and be your own boss, running a multi award-winning pet care franchise.
A lifestyle with flexibility, a growing full-time income and the rewards of making a really positive difference to the lives of pet lovers and their four-legged best friends – what’s not to like?
Why not escape the ordinary, leave the 9-5 office grind behind and become your own boss with Barking Mad?
Sharing our pet care sector knowhow, systems and brand name has enabled our large network to start or grow their own successful businesses via the franchise route.
Our 70+ franchise owners love what they do and reap the benefits of a successful, flexible, family-friendly career.
Why Barking Mad?
- Over 20 years’ experience – we are proud to be an award-winning, leading franchise in our sector.
- Best Pet Care Franchise – as awarded by The Elite Franchise Top 100 for the LAST 7 YEARS in a row!
- A highly flexible business opportunity – allowing you to run it around other personal commitments.
- Great earnings potential, as well as achieving the work/life balance you really want.
- A market leading launch package – including marketing activity, licensing support and insurance.
- The UK’s most-trusted pet care provider – as verified by our substantial number of Trustpilot reviews – over 9,000 and counting!
- Fantastic support available to our franchise network including: Animal welfare licensing support, Social-media, Sales & Marketing support, Operational, Accounting and IT support, Dog behaviour training, canine first aid certification and other practical coaching.
Join Our Pack
Would you jump at the chance to ditch your current routine and enjoy spending every day in the company of adorable dogs and fellow dog lovers? John and Elaine Warburton, winners of the British Franchise Association Lifestyle Award, describe buying a Barking Mad franchise as,
“the best decision we have ever made”
Self-confessed, ex ‘wage slave commuter’ John explains:
“As animal lovers, the concept of home-from-home dog boarding held huge appeal. The Barking Mad franchise system’s tried, tested and proven operating procedures were a major factor in our decision, along with the training, support and potential for growth to an impressive six figure turnover.”
Dog ownership in the UK has surged over the past few years, with an estimated 34% of the UK population now owning a dog, which equates to over 13m dogs*! Therefore, Barking Mad is expanding across the UK and needs motivated business owners to meet demand. Could this be you?
Comprehensive Business and Customer Support
Starting out on your own can be really tough and new entrants to the market need to stay ahead of the competition. According to a recent report in ‘The Times’, 20% of sole traders fail within a year and 60% fail within five years. Launching a franchise with a prominent brand name, with the added support of a dedicated HQ team, means that your new venture has the best possible start.
Barking Mad’s team of experts are specialists in all areas of the business, so you don’t have to be! From sales and accounts advice, to social media and online marketing support, help is on hand. Franchisees are guided every step of the way with one-to-one business planning and expert training guides.
As part of Franchise Brands plc since 2016, our franchisees also benefit from the knowledge of a group of market-leading franchise businesses who share the same support services, with huge commitment to investment and innovation.
Loyal Repeat Business and Referrals in a Massive Growth Industry
When you buy a Barking Mad franchise, you will benefit from our brand’s loyal repeat business and referrals in a massive growth industry. Our customers love our service, as demonstrated by our independent 5* Trustpilot reviews.
Tapping into potential in the pet market requires knowledge of a complex sector, but with a Barking Mad franchise, our proven and successful business model will give you all the tools you need to achieve your entrepreneurial, pet care dreams.
Top Dog Brand Leader
A strong brand and extensive expert resources mean we have a tried and tested recipe for your success. Barking Mad has a strong brand presence both online and offline, as well as being featured by the national media including the BBC, ITN, Daily Mail, Metro, Evening Standard and many more.
If you’re a pet lover, with ambition and a dedication to first class customer service, then Barking Mad could be perfect for you. Our franchise owners create profitable and successful businesses with the support and expertise of our leading national brand. They enjoy an enviable work-life balance whilst indulging their passion for pets.
Join a business community who love pets as much as you do. Territories are strictly exclusive and available on a first come first served basis, so why not get in touch today? We’d love to chat to you about taking the first steps to becoming a dog care entrepreneur. Request an information pack today to find out more.
*The franchise is £9,995+VAT, and with our PAYG option, we can get you started with as little as £4,995 +VAT to set up. Barking Mad also has a great relationship with high street banks and there is also the option of a Government start up loans scheme, subject to acceptance.
* Dog population in the UK 2024 | Statista
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Barking Mad climbs the rankings in the 2026 Elite Franchise Top 100
Barking Mad is celebrating national recognition after being named one of the UK’s leading franchise opportunities in the 2026 Elite Franchise Top 100 (EF100), proudly rising to 53rd place, up from 60th last year.
The achievement highlights Barking Mad’s continued growth, exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to supporting its thriving franchise network.
Now in its ninth year, the EF100 - sponsored by HSBC UK - showcases the most innovative, impactful and successful franchises across the country. Each brand is evaluated against a broad set of criteria, including growth, innovation, franchisee satisfaction and contribution to local communities.
The 2026 rankings once again underline the strength and diversity of the UK franchising industry. Despite economic and operational challenges, the franchises featured have continued to adapt, evolve and succeed - demonstrating the true resilience of the sector.
Anita Roberts, Franchise Director at HSBC UK, commented:
“Once again, the standard of the entries highlights how dynamic and determined UK franchising continues to be. The adaptability and innovation shown by brands in challenging conditions are truly impressive.”
For Barking Mad, securing a place among the UK’s top 100 franchises - and improving its position year on year – reflects ongoing dedication, collaboration and progress. The brand continues to expand its reach and make a positive impact through its award-winning dog home boarding services, while offering rewarding opportunities for passionate entrepreneurs across the UK.
Rachel Stewart, Managing Director at Barking Mad, said:
“We’re thrilled to be recognised once again in the Elite Franchise Top 100. Climbing to 53rd place is a fantastic achievement and a real honour. This success belongs to our incredible franchisees and team - their passion, commitment and belief in what we do are what drive Barking Mad forward.”
Barking Mad remains committed to delivering outstanding pet care services nationwide and providing exceptional opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to join a trusted, growing franchise network.
Barking Mad Video
