Dog Grooming Level 2

Course Overview

The City & Guilds Level 2 Dog Grooming Assistant qualification is designed specifically for adults aged 19 and over who wish to begin a career in the professional dog grooming industry or retrain in a hands-on, practical field. This course is ideal for career changers, those returning to work, individuals currently employed in animal care settings, or dog owners wishing to develop professional skills. It provides a supportive entry point into the grooming sector and can act as a stepping stone to higher-level qualifications or employment within a grooming salon.

Throughout the course, learners will develop the essential practical skills and knowledge required to work effectively as a grooming assistant in a commercial environment. Learners will gain an understanding of canine behaviour, safe handling and restraint methods, health and safety legislation, infection control, and maintaining a clean and organised workspace.

On successful completion, adult learners will leave with the confidence, technical ability, and industry awareness needed to support a professional groomer and contribute positively within a salon setting, helping to ensure high standards of animal welfare and customer care.

What will I study?

• Preparing, bathing, drying, and trimming dogs
• Brushing, de-matting, safe handling, moving, and lifting
• Health and safety, infection control, and salon cleanliness
• Canine anatomy, breed characteristics, and behaviour
• Regular practical sessions in a professional grooming environment

How will the student be taught and assessed?

• The course is taught through theory lessons and practical lessons in the parlour.
• Practical assessments, demonstrating your skills on different coat types.
• Multiple choice written exam.

Modules

• Prepare and groom dogs prior to bathing.
• Know relevant health and safety legislation and good practice.
• Bathing of dogs
• Drying dogs and prepare for styling
• Carry out trimming a dogs coat to prepare for styling
• Moving and lifting dogs
• Maintain the cleanliness and biosecurity of the dog grooming environment
• Professional practice
• Introduction to anatomical features, breed characteristics and behaviour in dogs

Entry requirements

• No formal entry requirements
• Interest in working with dogs and learning practical skills essential

Why should I choose USP College?

• Industry-standard grooming parlour
• Expert tutors with real-world experience
• Strong links to local employers

Additional costs

Students need their own grooming kit (scissors, combs, brushes)

What could I do next?

• Progress to Level 3 Dog Grooming
• Work as a dog grooming assistant
• Opportunities in animal care or further study

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