iPET Network has announced the launch of two new Ofqual Regulated qualifications designed to support learners who are interested in working within the dog grooming industry. The iPET Network Level 2 Award in Dog Grooming Support and the iPET Network Level 2 Award for Dog Grooming Assistants have been developed to provide learners with the knowledge and practical skills needed to work in a professional dog grooming environment.
The introduction of these qualifications provides new opportunities for learners to gain hands-on experience while building an understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities within a grooming salon. They also support training centres looking to offer additional learning pathways within the growing dog grooming sector.
The iPET Network Level 2 Award in Dog Grooming Support is designed for learners aged 14 years and above and provides an introduction to working in a dog grooming environment. The qualification focuses on supporting professional groomers while developing an understanding of the grooming process and the importance of maintaining high standards of animal welfare.
Learners completing this qualification will gain an overview of how grooming salons operate and the essential tasks involved in preparing dogs for grooming and styling. This includes supporting experienced groomers, ensuring dogs are prepared safely and appropriately, and understanding the professional environment in which grooming takes place.
The iPET Network Level 2 Award for Dog Grooming Assistants, available to learners aged 16 years and above, has been developed for those who wish to progress further within the grooming environment and work as a dog grooming assistant in a professional salon. This qualification focuses on preparing dogs for grooming procedures and supporting professional groomers, while also introducing learners to basic styling techniques that form part of everyday salon work.
Both qualifications aim to provide learners with a well-rounded understanding of the grooming environment by combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience. Learners will explore a range of key topics that support safe and professional working practices within a grooming salon.
These areas include:
For learners undertaking the Dog Grooming Assistant qualification, the programme also introduces practical styling skills, allowing learners to develop hands-on experience in basic grooming techniques under professional supervision.
The launch of these new qualifications also provides training centres with the opportunity to expand their course offering and support learners at different stages of their journey within the animal care sector. By offering structured learning programmes that combine theory and practical application, centres can help learners develop confidence and competence in a professional grooming environment.
Dog grooming continues to grow as a career pathway within the wider pet care industry, with increasing demand for skilled professionals who understand both grooming techniques and animal welfare. Qualifications such as these play an important role in supporting the development of future professionals while helping to maintain high standards within the sector.
In addition the qualifications may also appeal to individuals who are home-schooled or seeking a qualification at a younger age.
Training centres interested in delivering the iPET Network Level 2 Award in Dog Grooming Support and the iPET Network Level 2 Award for Dog Grooming Assistants can now register their interest HERE.
Please complete the fields within the form before submitting your interest
