iPET Network Level 5 Diploma for Canine Behaviour Practitioners – Qualification Number 610/6900/0 (link to qualification on Ofqual register) 

The iPET Network Level 5 Diploma for Canine Behaviour Practitioners has been designed to provide Learners with a comprehensive and applied understanding of canine welfare, behaviour and training, grounded in scientific research, ethical principles and evidence-based practice. It develops both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to work competently and responsibly in the canine behaviour sector under supervision from a Clinical Animal or Veterinary Behaviourist.

Learners will be equipped with a comprehensive understanding of canine behaviour, learning theory, physiology, welfare, and the practical application of training and behaviour modification techniques. It also covers key professional areas including client communication, business management, legislation, and ethical practice within the canine sector.

Ethical and welfare considerations are embedded throughout the qualification. Learners are encouraged to critically evaluate training and behaviour modification methods. The qualification reinforces the need for professional integrity, evidence-based decision-making, and collaboration with veterinary and other professionals where appropriate.

This qualification equips Learners with the knowledge and understanding required to support the work of a Clinical Animal or Veterinary Behaviourist. The Animal Behaviour Technician (ABT) role sets out the competences required to provide preventative and behavioural first-aid recommendations.

Centres delivering this qualification may apply directly to the Animal Behaviour & Training Council (ABTC), if desired, to seek course recognition under the Animal Behaviour Technician Standard.

Learners who complete this qualification at a Centre with ABTC course recognition may progress to supporting case work and, where appropriate, towards undertaking the ABTC practical assessment to become a recognised Animal Behaviour Technician under ABTC standards.

Learners who complete the qualification at a Centre without ABTC course recognition may still apply to undertake the ABTC practical assessment via the ABTC’s Assessment of Prior Experience and/or Learning (APEL) route.

While iPET Network, as the Awarding Organisation, cannot apply directly for ABTC course recognition, the ABTC were consulted during the development of this qualification. Consultation does not imply endorsement or recognition.

This qualification has been designed to enable Learners to:

• Understand the evolution and domestication of dogs, the effect of genetics on health and behaviour, and the responsibilities of dog breeders.
• Understand learning theories and how to apply them in practice, including training terminology such as conditioning and reinforcers.
• Be able to assess dogs for training, teach new behaviours, and evaluate the outcomes and impact of interventions.
• Understand basic functional anatomy and physiology, the stress response, signs of ill health that influence behaviour, and the impact of handling equipment on dogs.
• Understand the impact of diet, gut microbiome, ingestive behaviour, and the use of food in behaviour modification.
• Understand the needs and training of puppies, adolescents, street and rescue dogs.
• Understand canine communication, body language, and behavioural states.
• Understand common unwanted behaviours, their prevention and management, aggression, separation-related behaviours, fears and phobias.
• Understand the importance of play, exercise, and environmental factors on stress, and the use of psychopharmaceutical, complementary, or non-prescription therapies.
• Understand and be able to carry out preparation, risk assessment, documentation, and information gathering for consultations.
• Understand and implement behaviour modification plans and understand professional collaboration and the referral processes.
• Understand business ownership, marketing, pricing, insurance, and relevant legislation.
• Be able to create a business plan and understand the importance of maintaining up-to-date knowledge and professional practice.

This qualification consists of the following theoretical and practical units:

514: How Dogs Learn

447: Canine Anatomy, Physiology and Handling Equipment

515: Canine Body Language

448: Practical Dog Training

516: Puppy Training

517: Adolescent Dog Behaviour and Training

518: Rescue and Street Dog Welfare

519: Factors Influencing Canine Behaviour

520: Feeding and Diet-Related Problems

521: Behavioural Modification

522: Consultation and Behavioural Change Programmes

449: Business Management and Marketing

EDUCATION FOR PEOPLE, FOR PETS, FOR THE FUTURE