OCN NI
Level 3
QN: 603/2765/0
Curriculum Active
OCN NI Level 3 Certificate in Commercial Dog Grooming and Salon Management
Official qualification regulated by Ofqual, awarded by OCN NI. Classified as a Vocationally-Related Qualification. Total guided learning hours: 126 hours.
Qualification Level
Level 3
Awarding Body
OCN NI
Syllabus Units
3 Units
Guided Hours
126 hrs
Instant access to interactive lessons, quizzes, and spaced revision.
Course Syllabus & Study Modules
Complete breakdown of verified curriculum topics and learning objectives.
1
OCN NI Level 3 Certificate in Commercial Dog Grooming and Salon Management
Dog Styling and Finish Grooming
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Demonstrate breed-appropriate styling techniques on at least three different coat types, including scissoring, clipping, and hand-stripping where applicable.
- Identify and rectify common grooming problems such as matting, tangles, skin irritations, and external parasites during the grooming process.
- Perform safe and effective nail clipping using guillotine or plier-style clippers, with appropriate restraint and styptic control.
- Remove excess hair from the ear canal and clean the external ear using correct techniques to minimise infection risk.
- Apply salon health and safety protocols throughout all grooming procedures, including disinfection of tools and workstation.
- Evaluate the finished groom against the breed standard or client brief and provide professional aftercare advice to the owner.
2
OCN NI Level 3 Certificate in Commercial Dog Grooming and Salon Management
Prepare Dogs’ Coats for Styling and Finishing
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Conduct a thorough pre-grooming assessment, examining coat and skin condition, detecting matting, parasites, and abnormalities, and recording findings accurately.
- Apply appropriate brushing, combing, de-matting, or clipping techniques to prepare the dog’s coat for styling, adapting methods to coat type and condition while ensuring the dog’s comfort and welfare.
- Demonstrate correct use, cleaning, sterilization, and maintenance of grooming tools and equipment in line with industry best practice and manufacturers’ instructions.
- Implement health and safety procedures, including risk assessment, safe handling, waste management, and infection control, to promote a safe and environmentally responsible grooming environment.
3
OCN NI Level 3 Certificate in Commercial Dog Grooming and Salon Management
Promote, Monitor and Maintain the Health and Well-being of Dogs throughout Grooming Stay
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Conduct a thorough pre-grooming health check on a dog, identifying normal and abnormal findings.
- Explain the importance of obtaining accurate client information prior to grooming.
- Demonstrate effective monitoring of a dog’s physical and behavioural welfare throughout the grooming stay.
- Record health observations and relevant client data in a clear and professional manner.
- Recognise early signs of stress, pain, or illness and take appropriate remedial action.
- Apply infection control measures to maintain a hygienic environment and prevent cross‑contamination.
Regulatory & Verification Details
- Qualification Number (QN)
- 603/2765/0
- Regulated Status
- Available to learners
- Awarding Body
- OCN NI
- Qualification Type
- Vocationally-Related Qualification
- Operational Start
- Dec 2017