Level 2 Award in Introduction to Canine Nutrition

Introduction

Good nutrition is at the heart of canine health and wellbeing.

The Level 2 Award in Introduction to Canine Nutrition gives you a solid understanding of how diet influences behaviour, digestion, skin, coat, weight, and overall vitality.

This Ofqual-regulated qualification introduces the principles of canine nutrition and helps you make informed, science-based choices about feeding practices, dietary planning, and the role of nutrition in disease prevention.

It’s suitable for anyone working in dog care — from walkers and boarders to groomers, breeders, or trainers — and for owners who want to deepen their knowledge of canine health.

Study flexibly online with expert tutor support and earn a recognised qualification that complements Defra’s licensing requirements for staff knowledge and competence.

Learning Objectives

Unit 1 – Introduction to Canine Nutrition

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• Understand the basic anatomy and physiology of the canine digestive system.
• Identify key nutrient groups (proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and water) and their functions.
• Recognise the principles of balanced feeding and dietary formulation.
• Understand the importance of life-stage nutrition and how dietary needs change from puppy to senior dog.
• Evaluate feeding options including raw, kibble, wet, and mixed diets.
• Understand how poor diet contributes to common health and behaviour problems.
• Identify signs of nutritional imbalance or deficiency.
• Understand the legal and labelling requirements for commercial pet foods in the UK.

Qualification Information

Qualification Title: Level 2 Award in Introduction to Canine Nutrition
Awarding Organisation: iPET Network
Level: 2
Regulated By: Ofqual
Guided Learning Hours: 8 Hours
Total Qualification Time (TQT): 20 hours
Delivery: Online with tutor guidance and self-paced study.

Reference: Animal Activities Licensing: Statutory Guidance (Gov.uk)

Completion of this qualification demonstrates your commitment to welfare-led, evidence-based canine care.

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 via Dog Business School’s eLearning platform. Includes videos, reading materials, podcasts, interactive quizzes, and tutor-led discussions.

Assessments

Achievement is through a portfolio of evidence, including:

• Short written assignments (200–500 words).
• Knowledge checks and quizzes.
• Scenario-based analysis of dietary choices and feeding plans.

Pass / Refer

Each assignment is graded Pass or Refer. Two complimentary resubmissions are included if needed.

Certification

Certificates are issued by iPET Network following external verification. An interim proof of achievement can be provided for licensing applications.

Gain a recognised qualification that strengthens your professional credibility and understanding of canine health.

Learn from experienced tutors who work within the UK dog care and welfare industry.

What a dog eats affects how it behaves, how it ages, and how it feels every day. This qualification gives you the knowledge to make better decisions.

FAQs