The City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Professional Dog Grooming is for those looking to transform a passion for animals into a high-level career. Moving beyond the basics of bathing and brushing, this course dives deep into the technical artistry of the craft. You will master advanced scissoring, thinning, and hand-stripping techniques, learning how to execute complex breed-standard styles with precision. It is a hands-on journey where you refine your “eye” for balance and symmetry, ensuring that every dog leaving your table looks like a show-quality example of its breed. Beyond the grooming table, this qualification equips you with the essential knowledge of a canine professional. You will study anatomy, physiology, and health assessments, becoming an expert at identifying skin conditions and structural issues. The curriculum also places a heavy emphasis on professional ethics and business management, covering everything from health and safety regulations to customer relations and salon planning. Whether you dream of opening your own business or working in a high-end salon, this diploma provides the necessary skills and knowledge to work in a demanding and highly satisfying career.
Modules Include: *Health & Safety, Legislation and codes of practice for the dog grooming industry
*Styling and finishing a selection of breeds
*Health checking and handling a dog in a dog grooming environment
*Customer service and record keeping in a dog grooming environment
1. Industry-Expert Tutors The grooming department is led by tutors with over 10 years of industry experience who also run their own independent grooming businesses. This means the advice you get on everything from styling a breed standard dog to managing a tax return. 2. Specialised Grooming Facilities DVC boasts a dedicated, professional-grade grooming salon within its Animal Management Centre. A high-spec environment that mirrors a commercial setting. This helps you transition seamlessly from the classroom to a professional Position 3. The Perfect Practical Balance The course structure is designed for “doing” rather than just “listening.” ? 1 Day a Week: This allows the course to be structured around the students, giving both practical hands-on sessions and theory-based classes. ? Smaller Class Sizes: DVC prides itself on smaller cohorts, ensuring you get the one-on-one guidance necessary to master techniques. 4. Beyond the Grooming Table Each grooming student will be responsible for the dog in their care and will deal face-to-face with clients. 5. Career & Business Focus DVC doesn’t just want you to pass; they want you to work. The Level 3 course at Dearne Valley includes a heavy focus on entrepreneurship. Many students, like those in the college’s recent case studies, leave the course with their own salon business plans already finalised and ready to launch.
* 4 GCSEs at grade 3 or above including English and Maths, or * Level 1 Vocational Qualification plus English and Maths at Functional Skills Level 1 * Must hold a Merit or Distinction level 2 City and Guilds dog grooming assistant.
You can apply using our online application form and clicking the Apply Now button at the top of this page. For more information support with your enquiry or application please contact Student Services by emailing learn@dearne-coll.ac.uk or by calling 01709 513333.
Progression Opportunities
City & Guilds Level 4 LCGI (Licentiateship)
FdSc Animal Management / Applied Animal Grooming
You may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan. Please contact the college for further information on this. You will also be required to pay a £150 payment when enrolling on the course.
“The support is always there, even when we aren’t in College.”
Yevette Level 2 Dog Grooming - Adult Learner
We make every effort to ensure information within our online course directory is accurate and a true representation of the courses we are offering in 2026-27 However, we do reserve the right to make changes if necessary.
