Animal Grooming Courses for Beginners

Where to Start if You Love Animals

If you’ve ever dreamed of working with animals, an animal grooming course could be the perfect first step. Whether you’re looking for a new career, a side business, or simply want to learn professional grooming skills, iPET Network offers beginner-friendly, Ofqual-regulated qualifications designed to help you turn your passion into a profession.

At iPET Network, our courses combine practical learning with industry-recognised qualifications, so you can start your journey with confidence and credibility.

Why Start with Beginner Animal Grooming Courses?

The pet-care industry continues to grow rapidly across the UK, and skilled groomers are in high demand. Taking a beginner grooming course allows you to gain essential skills, understand animal welfare, and explore whether grooming is the right fit for you, all in a supportive, hands-on learning environment.

Starting with an entry-level animal-care course gives you:

• Confidence with dogs and cats through supervised, practical sessions.
• Knowledge of coat types, tools, and techniques used by professional groomers.
• A recognised qualification that helps you progress into advanced study or employment.
• A foundation for business ownership if your goal is to open a salon or mobile grooming service in the future.

Which Animal Grooming Course Is Best for Beginners?

iPET Network offers several qualifications that are ideal for those just starting out. Each course is regulated by Ofqual, meaning it meets national education standards and is recognised across the industry.

Level 3 Award in an Introduction to Dog Grooming

This short, introductory qualification is perfect for complete beginners. Over approximately five days, learners gain experience in bathing, drying, brushing, and styling dogs under expert guidance. You’ll also cover topics such as animal handling, salon safety, and coat-care basics.

This Level 3 Award is ideal if you:

• Are exploring a new career working with animals.
• Want to gain a recognised qualification in a short timeframe.
• Prefer hands-on, practical learning from day one.

Level 3 Certificate in Dog Grooming and Introduction to Styling

For those who want to take their learning further, the Level 3 Certificate builds on the introductory award with more in-depth styling and grooming practice. You’ll learn to groom a wider range of breeds and coat types, while developing the skills to work confidently in a salon environment.

This qualification suits you if you:

• Want to work as a professional dog groomer.
• Are ready to commit more time to training.
• Want to progress towards a full diploma in the future.

Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management

While not strictly a beginner course, many learners who complete the award or certificate choose to progress to this comprehensive animal grooming qualification. It’s ideal if you’re aiming to run your own salon, manage a team, or work at an advanced level within the industry.

Entry Requirements and What to Expect

There are no formal entry requirements for iPET Network’s beginner grooming courses, just a genuine love for animals and the motivation to learn.

Here’s what you can expect during your training:

• Practical experience from day one, learning to bathe, dry, and style a variety of breeds.
• Small class sizes led by qualified tutors who are passionate about both education and animal welfare.
• Supportive environments where safety, compassion, and confidence are prioritised.
• Blended learning options, combining hands-on experience with theory and portfolio work.

Most introductory courses can be completed in around five to fifteen days, depending on your chosen qualification and schedule.

Why Study with iPET Network?

iPET Network is an award-winning, Ofqual-regulated awarding organisation dedicated to improving standards in animal-care education. We work with approved training centres across the UK to deliver flexible, inclusive qualifications that reflect real-world industry needs.

When you study with us, you gain:

• A recognised qualification that sets you apart in the grooming industry.
• Access to expert trainers who guide you every step of the way.
• Flexible study options to fit around your lifestyle and commitments.
• Pathways for progression into advanced grooming or related animal-care qualifications.

Our goal is to help you build confidence, competence, and a career that brings genuine joy and purpose.

Start a Career with Animals Today

If you’re ready to begin your journey into professional grooming, our animal grooming courses for beginners are the perfect place to start. You’ll learn the skills that matter, gain a regulated qualification, and join a community passionate about animal welfare and education.

You can explore our site to find your nearest approved training provider or contact our team to learn more about becoming one.