Level 3 Award in Canine Care, Behaviour & Welfare

Introduction

Advance your knowledge and credibility with the Level 3 Award in Canine Care, Behaviour & Welfare — an Ofqual-regulated qualification from AIM Qualifications designed for anyone working professionally with dogs.

This nationally recognised award provides a deeper understanding of canine behaviour, health, and welfare, helping you care for dogs ethically, confidently, and in line with Defra licensing expectations.

You’ll learn how to read canine body language, recognise stress and aggression, apply force-free training methods, and manage dogs in kennels, day care, or home boarding settings.

Whether you’re a dog walker, trainer, day care provider, boarder, or aspiring behaviour professional, this qualification builds the foundation for professional progression and supports compliance with the Higher Standard under the Animal Welfare Regulations.

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.
• Understand appropriate, force-free training techniques.
• Recognise the impact of environment and management on behaviour.

Unit 2: Introduction to Canine Health and Welfare

• Understand how to meet a dog’s physical and psychological needs.
• Know how to prevent common health issues.
• Recognise signs of pain, stress, and illness.
• Understand how to apply best practice in care and hygiene.
• Understand the basics of human-canine relationships.
• Know how to maintain welfare standards in kennels, day care, or home settings.

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 3 Award in Canine Care, Behaviour & Welfare
Awarding organisation: AIM Qualifications
Level: 3
Credits: 3
Total Qualification Time (TQT): Approximately 60 hours

It is suitable for anyone who:

• Works with dogs in day care, boarding, training, or rescue.
• Seeks to meet Defra’s Higher Standard licensing requirement.
• Wants to deepen their understanding of canine behaviour and welfare.

Defra’s guidance states that to meet the Higher Standard, at least one permanent, full-time staff member must hold a relevant Ofqual Level 3 qualification.

Reference: Dog Kennel Boarding – Licensing Statutory Guidance for Local Authorities

Who is the course for?

This regulated qualification is for anyone who works with dogs – particularly as a:

• Dog boarder
• Dog day carer
• Dog breeder
• Dog walker
• Dog trainer/behaviourist
• Dog groomer
• Pet sitter

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 entirely online via self-paced study and tutor-led support. Learning materials include video lessons, eLearning modules, podcasts, case studies, and interactive resources. You can study from any device, at any time.

Assessments

Achievement is based on a portfolio of evidence meeting AIM Qualification standards.

• Written assignments (typically 200–500 words).
• Scenario-based tasks applying theory to real-world dog care.
• Reflective evaluation of learning and professional growth.

All work is assessed by qualified tutor-assessors and externally verified.

Pass / Refer

Each task is graded Pass or Refer. Two complimentary resubmissions are included; additional resits cost £25.

Certification

Once all units are passed and verified, the awarding body (AIM Qualifications) issues your certificate. Verification typically takes 2–6 months. Dog Business School can provide interim confirmation of achievement for Defra licensing purposes.

This course provides a formal, Ofqual-recognised qualification that demonstrates your knowledge and professionalism to clients and inspectors alike. It strengthens your inspection readiness, enhances your credibility, and deepens your understanding of canine care and behaviour.

Because great dog pros make great dogs.

FAQs