The Dog Stop

The Dog Stop Academy

Start Your Career in Dog Grooming

With over 10 years' experience in dog grooming and 21 years in the wider pet industry, we offer accredited courses to launch your new career.

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OCN Accredited

Hands-on Training

Small Class Sizes

Flexible Schedule

Are you looking for a new career?

With our small class sizes, you'll enjoy individualized attention and support throughout your training. Our all-encompassing curriculum includes grooming techniques, handling, relevant legislation, salon management, canine health and behaviour, and first aid.

We also provide continued support after you qualify, including career guidance, salon start-up support, follow-up sessions and tuition days.

Our Courses

Accredited Qualifications

OCN NI Level 3 Diploma in Commercial Dog Grooming, Animal Welfare & Salon Management

30 daysMinimum 2 days per week with flexible scheduling options

This course is delivered over 30 days, with 29 days in-house practical and 1 day canine first aid & CPR training. Over the 30-day period, students will groom a minimum of 10 different breeds to ensure a thorough understanding of a variety of different coat types, sizes and temperaments.

Prerequisites: No pre-requisites required - suitable for beginners and established groomers

Skills you will learn:

Bathing and drying techniques

Clipping and scissoring skills

Both breed-specific and pet styling

Health and Safety in the workplace

Salon and business management

Client communications

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OCN NI Level 3 Fast Track Qualification in Dog Grooming

12 monthsCompleted in your own salon at your own pace

For skilled and experienced dog groomers who are eager to earn an accredited qualification swiftly and effectively. This course is suitable for groomers with a minimum of 2 years practical grooming experience.

Prerequisites: Minimum 2 years practical grooming experience

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OCN NI Stand Alone Canine First Aid & CPR Course

1 daySingle day course

Our 1-day Canine First Aid & CPR training course is ideal for both pet owners and professionals who want to be ready to provide emergency care and treatment should a pet face difficulty.

Prerequisites: Open to pet owners and professionals

Skills you will learn:

CPR techniques

How to respond and treat for injury

Allergic reactions response

Seizure management

Choking response

Canine First Aid kit essentials

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More Options

Taster & Tuition Days

Taster Days

Curious about dog grooming?

Our Taster Days are an excellent chance to get a first hand look at what it's like to work in a genuine dog grooming salon before you decide to commit to a full course. Whether you're thinking about a career change, checking out your options, or simply curious to find out if grooming suits you, this session will give you practical experience in a welcoming, professional environment.

5-6 hoursBook Now

Tuition Days

Refine your skills

Our Dog Grooming Tuition Days are ideal for both new groomers needing extra help and support to boost their confidence as well as former students who want to refine or refresh their skills. Our Tuition days allow for both an opportunity to concentrate on styling and advancing your grooming methods.

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