Dog Grooming Courses

Thinking about a career in dog grooming?

The iPET Network Level 3 Award in an Introduction to Dog Grooming is the perfect place to start.

Delivered over five days at our modern, purpose-built grooming school, this course introduces you to the essential skills, techniques, and best practices needed to safely prepare, style, and finish a range of dog breeds.

Ideal for complete beginners, this course is tailored for those looking to explore the world of professional grooming—whether you’re considering a future as a grooming assistant or stylist, or you’re a dog owner who wants to confidently care for your own pet’s coat at home.

You’ll learn to groom a minimum of five dogs across at least three different breeds, giving you a strong foundation in breed-specific styling and coat care.

There are no prior qualifications or experience needed—just a genuine passion for animals and a desire to learn. We understand that learners come from all walks of life, which is why our experienced tutors offer a supportive, flexible approach that adapts to your learning style.

As part of the qualification, you’ll complete two units, maintain grooming diaries for each dog you style, and take part in practical grooming assessments.

Start your grooming journey with confidence—and let us help you turn your passion into a profession.

Course length: 5 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 Methods:

✅ Online submission of evidence and workbook

✅ Practical Assessment

❌ Exams

Includes:

• Practical experience bathing and drying different dogs
• Basic styling and hygiene
• Coat preparation
• Bathing and drying
• Clipping
• Scissoring
• Nail trimming
• Health and safety for people and pets
• Animal welfare legislation and best practice
• Customer care
• Planning dog grooming styles
• Health checks and canine behaviour
• Maintaining equipment

Certification: iPET Network Level 3 Award in an Introduction to Dog Grooming (Ofqual regulated)

Perfect for: dog owners who want to confidently groom their pets in a variety of styles, as well as those considering a future in dog grooming. By the end of this course, you’ll have a clear sense of whether a career in grooming is your next step—or if your new skills will simply bring joy and comfort to your own beloved dogs.

Awarding Organisation: iPET Network

Ofqual Code: 603/6031/8

Guided Learning Hours: 46

Total Qualification Time: 55

Start Date: Anytime

Enrolment will be valid for: 1 year

Study mode: In person practical training

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: 6

Units: 2

Unit breakdown:

1. Prepare, Style and Finish Several Dog Breeds
2. Health and Safety in a Dog Grooming Environment

After this course, students can:

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

🐾 Receive 3×30 minute 121 coaching sessions

🐾 Complete other related canine qualifications to further their knowledge

🐾 Begin working as a trainee Dog Groomer

🐾 Progress to Cat Grooming