Course overview
If you’re considering the Level 1 Principles of Dog Grooming course at
Plumpton College, you can expect a welcoming introduction to the dog grooming
industry. The course is designed for complete beginners, whether you’re
exploring a future career in grooming, want to learn how to groom your own dog,
or are considering progressing onto the Level 2 Dog Grooming Assistant
qualification.
As a student, you’ll develop a basic understanding of canine behaviour, learn
to identify different breeds and coat types, and become familiar with the
equipment used in a grooming salon. You’ll also gain practical experience in
fundamental grooming skills such as bathing, drying, nail clipping, and
preparing dogs for grooming.
The atmosphere is likely to be supportive and relaxed, with students who
share a common interest in dogs. Learning combines theory with practical
activities, allowing you to build confidence gradually while developing safe
working practices and understanding health and safety requirements within the
grooming environment.
Throughout the course, you’ll begin to appreciate the importance of handling
dogs correctly, recognising their behaviour and communication signals, and
adapting your approach to suit different breeds and personalities. Many students
find that it gives them a realistic insight into what working in the grooming
industry involves before committing to higher-level study.
Learn the skills the dog grooming industry values
At Plumpton College, you’ll learn from a course shaped by industry expertise,
helping you develop the practical skills and professional knowledge needed to
succeed as a dog groomer.
You’ll explore:
- High standards of animal welfare
- Safe and professional grooming practices
- Excellent customer service
- Current legislation and industry expectations
- Sustainable approaches to grooming
- The importance of continuous learning and development
You’ll also discover how grooming contributes to a dog’s health, comfort and
wellbeing, and learn how to help owners become active partners in their dog’s
ongoing care.
Whether you’re starting your journey or planning to build a rewarding career
with dogs, Plumpton College will help you develop the confidence, knowledge and
standards expected by the industry.
Modules
- Recognise Health and Safety Issues
- Identify basic canine behaviour
- Identify different breeds and coat types
- Name grooming equipment and when to use it
- Demonstrate the ability to dilute shampoo correctly
- Demonstrate the use of the equipment by grooming a dog
How will I be assessed?
Workbook and a practical assessment.
Industry links
Plumpton College Dog grooming department work closely with the industry experts to reinforce industry led legislations. Sustainability is becoming a major focus in dog grooming as salons, mobile groomers, training providers, and product manufacturers work to reduce their environmental impact while maintaining high standards of animal welfare and customer service. Therefore, the dog grooming industry expects high welfare standards, professional competence, excellent customer service, regulatory compliance, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Plumpton College work hard to produce successful groomers who educate owners about the connection between grooming, health, comfort, and welfare, helping them become active partners in their dog’s ongoing care.
Progression routes
This course is designed to give an insight to the grooming industry, including recognition of basic canine behaviour, identification of different breeds and their coat types and basic techniques to practice, such as bathing, drying and nail clipping.
You can progress onto the City & Guilds Level 2 Dog Grooming Programme.
| Cost | £405 |
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Start dates
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