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Buy a Dog Boarding Business in Colorado | Licensing, Financing, & Real Estate Guide

Brian Lee BurkeBrian Lee Burke
Jun 15, 2025 2 min read
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Buy a Dog Boarding Business in Colorado | Licensing, Financing, & Real Estate Guide

How to Buy a Dog Boarding Facility in Colorado – Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Why Invest in a Dog Boarding Facility in Colorado?

Colorado is one of the fastest-growing states for pet ownership. The demand for pet boarding services continues to rise due to strong tourism, an active population, and the pet-friendly culture statewide. A well-located dog boarding business can offer strong ROI for savvy investors and entrepreneurs.

Featured Dog Boarding facility in Colorado

Click On the Address Below For information og the Best Dog Boarding Facality in Colorado

How to Find Dog Boarding Businesses for Sale

  • Search Pet Care Businesses on BizBuySell
  • Commercial Listings on LoopNet
  • Contact commercial real estate brokers in Colorado with experience in pet services
  • Target off-market listings through direct outreach and networking

Evaluating a Facility Before You Buy

Before buying a dog boarding facility in Colorado, assess these factors:

  • Revenue, profit margins, and client retention rates
  • Facility layout, HVAC, odor control, and waste disposal systems
  • Licensing status and compliance with PACFA and local zoning laws
  • Operational history and online reviews

Commercial Real Estate & Zoning Laws in Colorado

Dog boarding facilities often require special use permits or zoning approvals depending on the county. Always confirm zoning and land use permissions through the local planning department before purchasing.

Financing Your Purchase

Explore the following financing options:

  • SBA 7(a) Loans for acquiring businesses with real estate
  • Commercial mortgages for standalone facilities
  • Seller financing to ease upfront capital requirements

Business Licensing & Legal Requirements

  • Form a business entity (LLC, S-Corp, etc.) through the Colorado Secretary of State
  • Apply for PACFA licensing under the Colorado Department of Agriculture
  • Secure city/county kennel permits and sales tax licenses
  • Ensure proper business liability and property insurance are in place

Due Diligence & Closing the Deal

Work with a commercial real estate attorney and CPA. Ensure transfer of client contracts, vendor agreements, digital assets, and all relevant licenses at the time of closing.

Transitioning Operations Smoothly

  • Introduce yourself to clients with a formal onboarding plan
  • Retain key staff during the transition period
  • Maintain consistent care routines and branding or update with clear messaging

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to buy a dog boarding facility in Colorado?

Prices vary widely based on location, size, and profitability. Expect to pay between $200,000 to over $1 million for a well-established facility with real estate included.

Do I need to be licensed to own a kennel in Colorado?

Yes, the Colorado Department of Agriculture requires facilities to be licensed under PACFA (Pet Animal Care Facilities Act). Local city or county licensing may also apply.

What should I look for when evaluating a pet care business?

Key factors include the business’s financial performance, condition of the facility, staffing structure, client retention rate, and community reputation.

Can I live on the property?

Some rural boarding facilities include residential quarters. Zoning laws and the property’s layout will determine if on-site living is permitted.

What are typical profit margins?

Margins range from 15% to 35% depending on staffing, occupancy rates, and efficiency. Boarding-only businesses tend to be less profitable than those offering training or grooming services.

Ready to Buy a Dog Boarding Facility in Colorado?

Kenna Real Estate Group helps buyers locate, evaluate, and close pet care business transactions. With decades of experience in Colorado commercial real estate, we’re your trusted partner in success.

 Contact us now to get a customized list of available dog boarding businesses for sale in Colorado.

Request More Info or Get Listings

Contact Kenna Real Estate Group

Have Questions? Get in Touch

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WRITTEN BY
Brian Lee Burke
Brian Lee Burke
AUTHOR, E-PRO®, REALTOR® BROKER

Brian Lee Burke is the founder and team leader of Kenna Real Estate Group, a real estate team at Keller Williams DTC. A licensed REALTOR® since 2002, Brian helps Colorado buyers and sellers navigate residential real estate, new construction, pricing, and negotiation. He is also the author of The Real Estate Playbook and Mastering Real Estate: Your Guide to Becoming a Top Agent.

View Brian Lee Burke’s full profile.