Level 3 Certificate in Dog Grooming and Introduction to Styling

Gain the essential skills, confidence, and nationally recognised qualification to begin your journey into professional dog grooming.

Level 3 Certificate in Dog Grooming and Introduction to Styling

The qualification is designed for candidates who wish to gain the skills and knowledge to prepare, style, and finish a selection of dog breeds, understand health and safety in a dog grooming salon, and develop an understanding of health checking, handling, and canine behaviour. The course is delivered over a minimum of 15 days of practical training with 2 days of theory, plus additional theory work to be completed at home.

iPET Network is proud to have developed this new qualification in the canine and feline sector. Candidates will groom at least 10 dogs, including a minimum of 5 different breeds and 4 different coat types. There are no prerequisites for starting the qualification, meaning candidates can join directly at Level 3 without needing to complete a lower-level (Level 2) course first.

Practical Skills You'll Learn

Candidates will be trained in essential grooming techniques including:

  • Prepping

  • Bathing

  • Scissoring

  • Clipping

  • Styling

  • Nail trimming

on a variety of dog breeds.

Units Included in This Qualification:

  • 301: Health and Safety in a Dog Grooming Environment

  • 302: Promote the Welfare of Dogs Conforming with Relevant Legislation

  • 304: Assess and Plan Dog Grooming Styles and Maintain Equipment

  • 305: Health Checking, Handling and Canine Behaviour

  • 317: Prepare, Style and Finish a Selection of Dog Breeds

Assessment Method

Candidates are continually assessed through practical demonstration and coursework. There is no formal exam required to achieve this qualification.

This holistic and flexible approach has been well received by learners from across the UK, Ireland, and internationally. The qualification is designed to strike a balance between theoretical and practical learning, helping to take the pressure out of adult education—an approach that appeals to a wide range of learners.

Who Is This Qualification For?

The iPET Network Level 3 Certificate in Dog Grooming and Introduction to Styling demonstrates to employers and the public that candidates:

  • Understand the core principles of dog grooming

  • Have been introduced to professional styling techniques

  • Are ready to continue their learning or begin working in the grooming industry

It is ideal for those who are just starting out or for hobby groomers looking to gain a nationally recognised qualification.

Pathway to the Diploma

The units and evidence completed as part of this Certificate can be recognised as prior learning toward the iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management. To progress, candidates would need to:

  • Complete an additional minimum of 15 training days

  • Complete the remaining Diploma-specific units

Taster Day

To ensure this course is the right fit for you, a Taster Day must be attended before registration. The cost is £145, which will be refunded if you enrol on a course lasting 15 days or more with Knots+Tangles.

Course Cost

Certificate in Dog Grooming – £3,000

A £900 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance is due 3 weeks before the course start date.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Like To Speak To Us?

Phone: 07540 353 864 or Email: info@knotsntangles.co.uk

FAQs

Do I need any experience?
No! Our Level 3 Diploma is designed for complete beginners.

Will I receive a qualification?
Yes, all our courses are accredited by the iPET Network and recognised nationally.

Can I start my own business after the course?
Absolutely — many of our students go on to open successful grooming salons.