Level 2 Award in Canine Care & Welfare

Introduction

Start your professional journey with the Level 2 Award in Canine Care & Welfare, an Ofqual-regulated qualification awarded by AIM Qualifications.

This foundation course gives you the essential knowledge and skills to care for dogs responsibly, recognise their needs, and promote high welfare standards.

You’ll learn how to identify and prevent common health and behaviour issues, provide appropriate enrichment, and apply best practice in day-to-day care. It’s ideal for anyone starting a career in dog walking, home boarding, kennels, or day care, or for staff who want to meet Defra’s licensing requirements for animal activities businesses.

Study flexibly online with expert tutor support and gain the recognised qualification that sets the standard for professional canine care.

Learning Objectives

Unit 1 – Introduction to Canine Behaviour and Training

• Understand normal canine behaviour.
• Know suitable routines to prevent welfare and behaviour issues.
• Understand how to provide canine enrichment.
• Recognise appropriate, force-free training techniques.
• Understand the link between environment, management, and behaviour.

Unit 2 – Introduction to Canine Health and Welfare

• Understand how to provide for a dog’s basic needs to prevent health problems.
• Know about common canine diseases and disorders.
• Recognise early signs of illness, pain, or distress.
• Understand safe feeding, hygiene, and handling routines.
• Know carer responsibilities and legal welfare requirements.
• Understand the human–canine relationship and its impact on welfare.

Qualification Information

This qualification is regulated by Ofqual and meets the requirements of The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018.

Qualification title: Level 2 Award in Canine Care & Welfare
Awarding organisation: AIM Qualifications
Level: 2
Credits: 6
Total Qualification Time (TQT): Approximately 56 hours

Please ensure you hold a relevant Ofqual-regulated qualification or are able to demonstrate equivalent knowledge.

Reference: Home Boarding for Dogs – Licensing Statutory Guidance for Local Authorities

This Level 2 Award fulfils Defra’s recommended baseline qualification for staff working in licensed dog boarding, kennels, or day-care establishments.

Who is the course for?

This regulated qualification is for anyone who works with dogs – particularly in these settings:

• Dog boarding
• Dog day carer
• Dog breeder
• Dog walking
• Dog trainer/behaviourist
• Dog grooming
• Pet sitting

You do not need any prior knowledge or qualifications to study for this qualification, although some experience or related knowledge will be advantageous.

Assignments and assessments

Learning Style and Content

Delivered online through self-paced learning, eLearning modules, videos, podcasts, and practical tasks. Tutor-assessors provide guidance, feedback, and additional learning support if required.

Assessments

Achievement is through a portfolio of evidence demonstrating understanding of behaviour, health, and welfare.

• Written responses and short essay tasks (200–500 words).
• Scenario-based questions testing practical application.
• Quizzes and reflection activities.

All evidence is internally assessed and externally verified by AIM Qualifications.

Pass / Refer

Each task is graded Pass or Refer. Learners must achieve a Pass in all units. Two complimentary resubmissions are included; further resits cost £25.

Certification

Certificates are issued by AIM Qualifications once external verification is complete, usually within 2–6 months. Dog Business School can provide interim confirmation of achievement for licensing purposes if needed.

The Level 2 Award builds the foundation for anyone beginning or formalising their work with dogs. It demonstrates your commitment to good practice, welfare, and professionalism, and strengthens your credibility with clients and inspectors alike.

A recognised first step toward a successful, compliant canine-care career.

FAQs