Dog Grooming Courses

Master the traditional art of hand stripping with this industry-recognised qualification designed for both aspiring and experienced dog groomers.

Hand stripping is a specialist grooming technique that removes dead hair from wire and silky coated breeds to maintain healthy skin, encourage fresh coat growth, and preserve the dog’s natural texture and appearance.

This course explores a wide range of breed-specific methods, tools, and techniques used in hand stripping, alongside the theory of coat types, handling skills, and aftercare best practices.

Whether you’re working with terriers like Border Terriers or sporting breeds such as Cocker Spaniels and Schnauzers, you’ll gain the confidence to achieve beautiful, breed-appropriate results.

Developed and reviewed by leading industry experts, this qualification blends hands-on learning with essential knowledge to support safe, effective grooming and real-world salon readiness. It’s ideal for professionals looking to expand their services or dedicated owners wishing to learn how to care for their dogs at home.

Flexible and comprehensive, the course ensures you leave equipped with the skills, understanding, and confidence to hand strip a variety of breeds to a high standard.

Course length: 2 days at FDM Academy

Training Time: 9.00am – 4.00pm

Availability: We offer flexibility, depending on our current bookings.

Study mode: In person practical training and online through your e-portfolio

Eligibility to complete this course: Learners must be aged 16 or above and able to follow Tutor instruction. They must be comfortable around dogs of all sizes, breeds and temperaments and able to work at level 3.

Assessment method: 

✅ Online submission of evidence and workbook

✅ Practical Assessment

❌ Exams

Includes:

• Theory of Hand Stripping a dog
• Advanced styling techniques of a wire and a silky coated dog
• Bathing and drying
• Understanding different hand stripping equipment
• Understanding what can prevent hand stripping

Certification: iPET Network Level 3 Award in Hand Stripping (Ofqual regulated)

Perfect for: Anyone looking to understand more about Hand Stripping techniques for there own dog or to gain a recognised qualification for this area of dog grooming

Awarding Organisation: iPET Network

Ofqual Code: 610/3210/4

Guided Learning Hours: 6

Total Qualification Time: 10

Start Date: Anytime

Enrolment will be valid for: 1 year

Study mode: In person and online

Award type: Award

Assessment Method: Portfolio of evidence, workbook and practical assessment

Qualification Level: 3

Entry Criteria: Learners should be aged 16 or above, be able to work at level 3 standard and be comfortable around dogs of all sizes, breeds and temperaments.

Credits: 1

Units: 1

Unit breakdown:

1. Hand Stripping a Dog

After the course, students can:

🐾 Take part in breed-specific training days at FDM Academy

🐾 Receive 3×30 minute 121 coaching sessions

🐾 Confidently offer hand stripping services

🐾 Complete other related canine qualifications to further their knowledge

🐾 Progress to Cat Grooming