dog grooming courses

Dog Grooming Courses

Our passion is to create skilled dog groomers.

Dog Grooming Courses

Be an Achiever

Unlock your passion for dogs and turn it into a rewarding career.

Venue: 43B Burnt Ash Hill, London, SE12 0AE

If you have a specific question, have a look at our frequently asked questions (FAQ) at the bottom of the page.

If you cannot find your answer, please drop us an email at info@absolutelyanimals.biz. We’re happy to assist.

Invest in yourself by learning from the experts.

If you are looking for a career change as a professional dog groomer, you have come to the right place. We can give you the tuition you need to gain employment, work in a salon, in a van, or from your own home. You will need to book one of our Dog Grooming for a Living Courses.

The Gold and Platinum Grooming for a Living Courses include everything you need, including access to 2 dogs a day, a City & Guilds qualification, your own starter pack to use and take away with you, as well as an in-depth theory program.

Below you can find the link to the full price list.

Courses are bespoke, flexible, and can be started any time throughout the year from Monday to Saturday each week.

Small Personal Classes

Dog Grooming

One Day Taster

dog in bad
city and guilds approved centre

Is a professional dog grooming career for you?

With our One-Day Taster course, you can find out if the dog grooming profession is right for you. On this day, you will be participating in grooming taking place in the salon. bathing, drying, handling, and maybe even some clipping.

The cost of this taster day will be deducted if you go on to book a Gold or Platinum course.

We also offer:

  • One-day training and assessment days.
  • Individual tuition and assessment for practising groomers, to improve your key skills and grooming styles (see bespoke training days below).

If you decide to enroll in a Gold, Platinum, or Platinum Plus course after completing the one-day taster, we will deduct the amount from the price, making it a FREE day! You must book within two months to get this deal.

£200 Inc. VAT

Gold Course - 22 days

dog in bath

Dog Grooming for a Living – 22 days of practical dog grooming

The Gold Course is for people with or without experience. Those without experience would be suitable for someone who wants to get a job in a grooming salon. If you were to pick the Gold course and felt you needed more tuition, you can upgrade to the Platinum or Platinum Plus.

  • 22 days of access to practical dog grooming covering preparation, styling, finishing and handling (That’s 44 Dogs)
  • Understanding the emotional and physical needs of the dog when grooming
  • The health of the skin and hair as well as general product use. Online webinar
    Part 1: Anatomy and functioning of the skin and hair
  • Hands-on practicals including handling, demonstrations, and equipment practice sessions for home
  • Equipment maintenance videos
  • A course manual and a robust theory programme to complete at home with our guidance and support
  • Includes the City and Guilds Level 2 Qualification which has to be completed before the level 3
    (includes level 3 if you have the level 2 already)
  • Includes a fantastic Online First Aid Course taught by a Vet, Dr Sophie Bell
  • Includes a fantastic Starter Pack that you take home at the end of the course.
    Includes, Clipper blades, Extension combs, Scissor set, Combs, Brush, Nail Trimmers, Hand stripping Tools, Apron and a Trimmer with 5 settings
  • Receive a Prestigious Absolutely Animals Certificate of Achievement and rosette!
  • One free year subscription to the British Isles Grooming Association.
  • Our courses are bespoke to the individual. So whatever previous experience you have will be used to tailor the course to the best.
    further learning.
  • Don’t forget! Our tutors are highly qualified,  award-winning, industry experts in grooming.

£4,500 Inc. VAT

Platinum Course - 32 days

Dog Grooming for a Living – 32 days of practical grooming

Platinum is for those who want to start their own business and be proficient in dog grooming. You can always upgrade to Platinum Plus if you need more tuition.

  • 32 days of access to practical dog grooming, covering preparation, styling, finishing and handling (that’s 64 dogs)
  • Understanding the emotional and physical needs of the dog when grooming
  • The health of the skin and hair as well as general product use. Online Webinar
    Part 1: Anatomy and functioning of the skin and hair
  • Hands-on practicals including handling, demonstrations, and equipment practice sessions for home
  • Equipment maintenance videos
  • Starting your own business accredited CPD online course includes writing a business plan and receiving an end-of-course certificate
  • A course manual and a robust theory programme to complete at home with our guidance and support
  • Includes the City and Guilds Level 2 Qualification which has to be completed before the level 3
    (includes level 3 if you have the level 2 already)
  • Includes a fantastic Online First Aid Course taught by a Vet, Dr Sophie Bell
  • Includes a fantastic Starter Pack that you take home at the end of the course.
    Includes, Clipper blades, Extension combs, Scissor set, Combs, Brush, Nail Trimmers, Apron and a Trimmer with 5 settings
  • Receive a Prestigious Absolutely Animals Certificate of Achievement and rosette!
  • One free year subscription to the British Isles Grooming Association.
  • Our courses are bespoke to the individual. So whatever previous experience you have will be used to tailor the course to the best.
    further learning.
  • Don’t forget! Our tutors are highly qualified,  award-winning, industry experts in grooming.

£5,500 Inc. VAT

iPET Platinum Plus Course Level 3 - 37 days

ipet course

iPET Platinum Course Level 3 – 37 days

We are very happy to introduce a brand-new level 3 qualification brought to you by iPET Network. We also offer a fast-track option for experienced groomers. This course does not require completion of level 2 to take and can be started without any experience.

With 37 days of practical grooming and some additional theory, candidates will be trained in practical skills such as prepping, bathing, scissoring, clipping, styling, and nail trimming on a variety of dog breeds.

If you want to know more, hit that pink course details button or sign up now by booking the course, and let’s get you started on your journey to becoming a fully qualified dog groomer.

You have one year to complete this qualification.

 

FAST-TRACK Available for experienced groomers only 

iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management qualification

£1000

We know many experienced groomers would like to be able to say they are also qualified and have had their skill validated.

Via the fast-track route, students complete theory work remotely and a portfolio of grooms at their own pace before undergoing assessment. You will complete 3 grooming assessments remotely online in your own salon environment making it a more relaxed process in achieving your qualification or if you prefer you can carry out your assessments at Absolutely Animals and we will supply the models.

We want to remove any learning barriers to ensure you achieve your goal of becoming qualified. As part of the enrolment fee you can attend one of our Canine Emergency First Aid dates at the school or you provide evidence of your previous achievement.

This iPET qualification is a great opportunity for experienced groomers to achieve Level 3 qualification status without the need for first completing a Level 2 qualification. This route is also ideal for students who hold the City and Guilds Level 2 or 3 Intro Certificate but who have not yet reached the City and Guilds Level 3 Diploma.

To prepare for assessment, we can offer additional training days at £250 per day.

Send us an email if you would like to discuss the course and one of the team will give you a call.

info@absolutelyanimals.biz

£6,500 Inc. VAT

City & Guilds Platinum Plus Level 2 & Level 3 - 37 days

platinum plus
city and guilds approved centre

Dog Grooming for a Living – 37 days of practical grooming

For those who want to include Level 2 and Level 3 City & Guilds, it can be added to any existing course if the customer wants to complete level 3 after completing level 2.

  • 37 days of access to practical dog grooming, covering preparation, styling, finishing and handling (That’s 64 Dogs)
  • Understanding the emotional and physical needs of the dog when grooming
  • The health of the skin and hair as well as general product use. Online Webinar
    Part 1: Anatomy and functioning of the skin and hair
  • Hands-on practicals including handling, demonstrations, and equipment practice sessions for home
  • Equipment maintenance videos
  • Starting your own business accredited CPD online course includes writing a business plan and receiving an end-of-course certificate
  • A course manual and a robust theory programme to complete at home with our guidance and support
  • Includes the City and Guilds Level 2 Qualification which has to be completed before the level 3
    (includes level 3 if you have the level 2 already)
  • Includes a fantastic Online First Aid Course taught by a Vet, Dr Sophie Bell
  • Includes a fantastic Starter Pack that you take home at the end of the course.
    With Clipper blades, Extension combs, Scissor set, Combs, Brush, Nail Trimmers, Apron and a Trimmer with 5 settings
  • Receive a Prestigious Absolutely Animals Certificate of Achievement and rosette!
  • One free year subscription to the British Isles Grooming Association.
  • Our courses are bespoke to the individual. So whatever previous experience you have will be used to tailor the course to the best.
  • Don’t forget! Our tutors are highly qualified, award-winning, industry experts in grooming.

You have one year to complete this qualification.

  £6,500 Inc. VAT

City and Guilds Qualification Assessments Only - Competent Groomers

City and guilds logo in turquoise

If you would like to take just the City and Guilds Qualification Assessment,  level 2 or level 3 you must already be skilled in dog grooming, where those skills will be assessed prior to enrolment. You will also be required to complete an open learning home study course, which will be provided and marked by qualified assessors.

Getting a City and Guilds Qualification will help you to build and add to your professional skills and performance within the field of dog grooming. With the noted qualifications, you will improve your earning potential and gain professional recognition by showing a level of competence has been met.

Qualifications not only provide you with professional achievement but also a personal achievement. Attaining them will help to improve your own confidence in the job, which is an important factor in any career choice.

To be completed in 4 days.

 £1,000 Inc. VAT

Bespoke Training Day

dog wearing diploma hat
  • Higher qualification grooming or ICMG (International Certified Master Groomer qualification).
  • Learn and improve skills and techniques required for grooming, styling and competing with your own dog.
  • Follows on from Level 3 Dog Grooming Diploma (7863-03).
  • Groom your own dog or groom two supplied dogs.

We also offer:

  • A one-day training and assessment day.
  • Individual tuition and assessment for practising groomers, to improve your key skills and grooming styles.

 £250 Inc. VAT

iPET Level 4 Diploma:
Higher Professional Diploma in Dog Grooming

ipet diploma

We’re very proud to introduce our new qualification for experienced groomers looking to further their careers, with the level 4 Higher Professional Diploma in dog grooming.

This qualification does cater to the individual (just like all our courses) and is approved by industry-leading experts.

Having a level 4 qualification can really make you stand out from the crowd, and we will be there to support you on your course every step of the way.

You have 12 months to complete this qualification.

 £1,499 Inc. VAT

Exams and Workshops

At Absolutely Animals, we also offer online Evolve exams every month for the qualifications, along with a variety of workshops. Our workshops are held for animal first aid, dog handling, poodle grooming, and City and Guilds Qualification preparation.

With our exams and workshops, you can continue to learn and improve your professional skills after your course and assessments are completed.

Invest in your future

Invest in your future with professional training at Absolutely Animals! With our team and our quality-assured courses, you will learn everything you need to know to groom for a living.

Our tutors are not only fully qualified but also international award-winning groomers themselves. Working with our experienced professionals, you will go through the necessary training to lead you towards qualifications and a fulfilling career in dog grooming.

Heidi Explains the Courses.

FAQ

What course is best for me?

The best course for you depends on many things, including affordability, previous experience, where you will groom afterwards if you want to get a job or be self-employed, and where you will be grooming; a shop, a van, or grooming from home?

We can assist you with choosing the right course. Talk to us so we can assist you in choosing the right course for you.

 

Where can I find City & Guilds dog grooming courses near me?

If you are looking for professional dog grooming courses nearby, you may want to travel that extra mile and visit us at Absolutely Animals. We are the place where professionals come to train, learn, and become certified in all aspects of dog grooming. We train dog groomers from all over the UK and internationally. Your local dog groomers near you were probably trained by one of our highly qualified professional dog groomers at Absolutely Animals Ltd.

 

Where are we located?

If you are local or in the area, then do stop by! We would be happy to discuss our dog grooming courses and explain the course features.

Our address is: Absolutely Animals Ltd, 43B Burnt Ash Hill, Lee, London, SE12 0AE.

 

Can I arrive by train?

Our business location is conveniently located just a few minutes walk from the Lee Southeastern Train Station. Train tickets are readily available online, but please do contact us prior to travelling if you do not already have a pre-arranged appointment.

 

Do you do payment plans?

Unfortunately, at this time we do not provide payment plans. All course payment has to be made prior to starting the course.

You can find more FAQs on Grooming Courses on our Frequently Asked Grooming Course Questions page.

Professional Dog Grooming Courses

Here at Absolutely Animals, we cover a variety of topics and content in our professional dog grooming courses, with courses that are flexible and tailored to the individual. As you will see from our reviews, our dog grooming courses are unique, and this is because our goal is not only to teach you the skills and knowledge of dog grooming, which are included in your qualifications, but also the tricks of the trade from our award-winning stylists.

With over 50 years of experience at hand, we want to pass on all this experience and knowledge to you so that when you leave our courses, you can groom safely and confidently for a living, offering you solid foundations for a career and life change.

Award Winning Teachers!

outstanding achievement award in dog competition grooming

City and Guilds Qualification

The famously known City and Guilds Qualifications are included in the course, as well as our own specialist supervision and tutoring. Don’t settle for less when investing in your future…

Absolutely Animals tutors are highly accredited in the dog grooming industry and offer successful dog grooming courses where our learners go on to achieve. We teach you to groom for a living. You won’t be disappointed! See our reviews from past learners.

See which course is best for you. Fill out the forms and let’s get you booked on your course today.

Everybody is Welcome!

Dog Grooming courses

What Learners Have to Say About Us...

Review by Clare 2022 Read More

"Really professional and informative course. I really feel as if I've come away with the tools. I need to start my own dog walking business. Thank you, Christine and the dogs for being super friendly ...

Review by Sylvia Marks Read More

“The Absolutely Animals Facebook group is a brilliant resource for help, ideas and advice. It’s a lifesaver, especially when you are at the beginning of your career and need some reassurance.” S...

Review by Sally James Read More

“It feels like being part of a very special family with a huge safety blanket. Life changing. Thank you so much.” Sally James...

Review by Sue Wright Read More

“The ongoing support continues long after training has finished. Heidi and Christine are very down-to-earth and encouraging, they become like extended family and the opportunities are there for howe...

Review by Sophie Foxton Read More

“I have never felt more supported to achieve and thrive. The support and patience given by Heidi and Chris during the course are immense, and that does not stop after you fly the nest! I feel like p...

Michelle Peachy  Read More

“The reason I chose Absolutely Animals was because after comparison I felt that this course offered more variation of breeds to practice on and also I wanted the formal City and Guilds qualification...

Denise Sacker Read More

“After deciding to change career, I researched many grooming courses. The recommendations I read for Absolutely Animals really stood out from the others. My course is now well under way and I am ver...

Louisa Dodd Read More

“My time at Absolutely Animals has been so enjoyable! At first I was very apprehensive especially because I was so young, however everyone was so supportive and they’ve helped me gain a lot of con...

Claudia Colen 2015 Read More

“I enjoyed every minute of this course and learned a lot through ought the process. I'm happy for choosing a high standard training school and highly recommend Absolutely Animals to anyone who wishe...

Carole Cooper 2015 Read More

“Dear Heidi and Absolutely Animals team. Thank you so much for a fantastic experience at my taster day yesterday. It has confirmed to me that this is definitely what i want to be doing for my future...

Rosie Munson 2016 Read More

“To the girls at Absolutely Animals – Thank you for all your help and support over the last few months. I cannot believe I have completed. I will be back for more soon. You are by far the best sch...

Sophie Foxton Ray 2016 Read More

“I absolutely loved my time at Absolutely Animals. Heidi, Christine and Kay have been of the upmost support, I have laughed until I cried, learned things I can’t believe I now know, and developed ...

Change of Career Review by Inara Pavare 2017 Read More

” I was looking for a career change and wanted to train as a professional dog groomer. I am very pleased I chose Absolutely Animals as my grooming school. The whole atmosphere in the school is very...

Absolutely Animals – would give it 6 stars if I could. Super Dog Grooming School Read More

“I started and completed the 22-day Gold Course at Absolutely Animals at the end of 2017 and cannot recommend them highly enough. The practical experience starts on day one under the expert guidance...

Review from Kamila Poniatowska 2019 Read More

"I did my grooming course in Absolutely Animals and it's the best place ever, the whole team were lovely and helpful. I've leant how to groom dogs to a very high standard which pays off now as I  wor...

Gary's Story Read More

Hi peeps,  If you’re looking for some of the best dog grooming courses in the UK bar none, then you’ll find them here at Absolutely Animals 🤗. The immensely talented team of Heidi, Chri...

Customer Review

The Journey of Becoming a Dog Groomer Review Read More

“Completing your City & Guilds course at Absolutely Animals is just the beginning of your journey into the world of grooming – you never really leave the nest entirely! Heidi and Christine alw...

Customer Review

A Review From a Lone Groomer Read More

“The aftercare service is a unique and valuable facility to those who need any help and support to continue the excellent courses supplied by Absolutely Animals. As a lone groomer, it’s reassuring...

Customer Review

Training for Many Years... Read More

“After training with Heidi many years ago, her team has been of continual support since I did my course way back when. I remember a few times calling them from work in a panic, asking for help (usua...

Customer Review

Passing At Absolutely Animals Read More

“Since I passed my course at Absolutely Animals, I have used the Facebook page for many things. It’s great for asking for help, getting different options and it’s a great safety net for all who ...

Groomer Learner Review

Cheaper Courses? Review on Value of Teaching Read More

“I could not recommend anywhere else to get your grooming certificate. Do not fool yourself with cheaper courses. The money you invest here is for a profession for a lifetime because you will leave...

Dog Grooming Review

What's the Gold Course like Review? Read More

“I have completed the gold course of dog grooming and now I watch some other professional dog groomers videos online and I ask “why aren’t they using the right technique instead of making it all...