07511 895698
Mabel & Friends Canine Academy
Welcome to Mabel & Friends Canine Academy, an approved iPet Network Learning Centre based in the Essex countryside.
Turn your passion for dogs into recognised qualifications and a rewarding career with our dog grooming and canine care & welfare courses.
With one-to-one tuition or small groups of no more than three students, you'll benefit from personalised support, hands-on experience and learning in a professional, 5-star licensed canine care environment.
Whether you're starting out, changing careers or developing your existing skills, we'll help you build the knowledge, confidence and practical experience to succeed in the canine industry.
One-to-one tuition • Maximum 3 students • Hands-on learning • Ofqual-regulated qualifications
Learn. Develop. Achieve.
Grooming Courses
Grooming Courses
1
iPet Network
Level 2 Award for Dog Grooming Assistants
Ideal for learners aged 16+ looking to develop the practical skills needed to work as a dog grooming assistant. This hands-on qualification covers bathing, drying, clipping, de-shedding and nail trimming, alongside canine anatomy, first aid and salon safety. Offering a broader introduction to professional grooming techniques, it builds confidence and prepares learners for supporting experienced groomers or progressing towards Level 3 qualifications.
Registration open for November 2026
2
Registration open for November 2026
iPet Network
Level 2 Award for Dog Grooming Support
A perfect first step into the world of dog grooming, suitable for learners aged 14+ with no previous experience. This introductory qualification focuses on essential salon support skills, including safe dog handling, bathing, drying and brushing, alongside basic canine care and workplace safety. Particularly suited to younger learners and those exploring a future career with dogs, it provides a practical and supportive introduction to the grooming industry.
3
iPet Network
Level 3 Award in an Introduction to Dog Grooming
Designed for beginners looking to explore a career in professional dog grooming. Combining practical training with essential theory, learners develop skills in bathing, clipping, scissoring, styling and nail trimming. Working with at least three dogs across different breeds and coat types, this qualification provides a valuable introduction to professional grooming techniques. No previous qualifications or grooming experience are required.
Registration open for November 2026
4
Coming 2027
iPet Network
Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management
Our comprehensive qualification for those aspiring to become professional dog groomers or run their own salon. Learners gain extensive practical experience grooming at least 20 dogs across different breeds and coat types, alongside training in styling, canine first aid, salon safety and business management. Combining practical expertise with essential business knowledge, this diploma provides an excellent foundation for a rewarding career in dog grooming.
5
iPet Network
Level 3 Certificate in Dog Grooming and Introduction to Styling
An ideal qualification for those wishing to develop practical grooming and styling skills. Learners gain hands-on experience grooming at least 10 dogs across different breeds and coat types, covering bathing, clipping, scissoring, styling and nail trimming. The course also introduces canine behaviour, health checks and salon safety. No previous qualifications are required, making this an accessible route into professional dog grooming.
Coming 2027
6
Coming 2027
iPet Network
Level 4 Higher Professional Diploma in Dog Grooming
Designed for experienced groomers wishing to take their expertise to an advanced professional level. This qualification develops exceptional breed-standard and freestyle styling techniques, alongside advanced knowledge of canine welfare, behaviour management, business operations and emergency first aid. Combining practical excellence with professional development, it is ideal for established groomers seeking to refine their skills, enhance their confidence and progress within the industry.
Behaviour & Welfare Courses
1
iPet Network
Level 2 Award in Canine Body Language
Discover how dogs communicate and learn to recognise the subtle signals behind their behaviour. Ideal for dog owners and those working with dogs, this qualification explores canine body language, communication and appropriate responses to different situations. Learners develop the knowledge to better understand dogs, promote positive welfare and help prevent potential conflicts. A valuable qualification for anyone passionate about canine behaviour and wellbeing.
2
Coming 2027
iPet Network
Level 2 Award in Canine Care, Health and Behaviour
An excellent starting point for anyone considering a career working with dogs or wishing to broaden their canine knowledge. This qualification introduces essential aspects of dog care, including nutrition, welfare, health, behaviour, handling, exercise and communication. Suitable for complete beginners, it provides a strong foundation for further study or future opportunities in dog walking, kennels, pet sitting and other canine care professions.
3
iPet Network
Level 2 Canine First Aid
An essential introduction to canine first aid for dog owners and anyone working with dogs. This theory-based qualification covers common emergencies including wounds, choking, poisoning, seizures, heat-related illness and water inhalation. Learners develop an understanding of how to recognise emergencies and respond appropriately, helping them feel better prepared should a dog need urgent care. An excellent foundation for progressing to Level 3 canine first aid training.
Coming 2027
Course Funding & Payment Options
Investing in your future should be as straightforward as possible.
At Mabel & Friends Canine Academy, we understand that undertaking a new qualification is an important investment. That's why we offer a range of payment options to help make your learning journey more accessible.