Ofqual Level 2 Award - Canine Care and Welfare Online Dog Care Course

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Level 2 Award
Qualification: 603/5731/9
20 Guided Learning Hours
Credits: 6 Study Credits
Course Start: Today
2 Online Modules
Downloadable Content
Instant 2 Year Access*

Learn canine care, welfare and foundation behaviour for dogs in your care.

The Level 2 qualification in care and welfare is ideal for understanding; a dog's needs, breed specific differences, foundation dog behaviour, dog health issues and disease prevention.

This course is an AIM Qualifications Level 2 course. And meets the Defra requirements for Licensing of Activities involving Animals. All qualifications are accredited by AIM Qualifications Group, an awarding body recognised and regulated by Ofqual.

Throughout your studies, you will have access to guidance and feedback from your tutor via the online learning platform.

Don't just learn about canine care and welfare - become a qualified professional.

The Level 2 Award in Canine Care & Welfare online course consists of 2 modules, each focusing on a different aspect of dog care, welfare, health & behaviour in dogs.

On successful completion of the course, you will understand;

Canine Needs
The Domestication of Dogs
Foundation Dog Behaviour
Dog Breed Differences
Classification of Dog Behaviour
Common Canine Health Issues
Dog Welfare and Behaviour Issues
Canine Health Checks
Canine Enrichment for Welfare
Canine Disease Prevention
Training Techniques

Canine Principles only teaches positive, careful, kind, scientific methods of canine coaching, communication and behaviour management.

Sally Gutteridge has been a full-time educational writer since 2015, holding a variety of canine certifications up to level 6. She is a former professional Dog Trainer with the Royal Army Veterinary Corps, a former instructor with Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, and has much rescue experience. Sally is a member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors. and an award-winning graduate of The Writers Bureau. Sally lives in Staffordshire with her ever-patient husband and three rescued, cheeky terriers.

Canine Needs: Dive into the fundamental needs of canines, learning what drives them, what fulfills them, and how you can contribute to their well-being. Gain knowledge that goes beyond pet ownership to truly comprehend the essence of our four-legged friends.
Dog Behaviour: Unravel the mystery of dog behaviour and decipher the silent language of our furry companions. This module offers a foundation understanding of how dogs communicate, interact, and express themselves, transforming your interactions with dogs into meaningful dialogues.
Classifying Behaviour: Step into the fascinating realm of canine behaviour science. Learn to classify behaviours and identify patterns, offering you vital insights into the complexities of a dog's life. Empower yourself with a systematic understanding of canine behaviour that will make you a standout in the field.
Preventing Welfare and Behaviour Issues: Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to dogs. Discover proven strategies to prevent common welfare and behavioural issues, improving not just their quality of life but also their relationships with the people around them. Be the proactive caretaker dogs need.
Welfare Through Enrichment: Explore the power of enrichment in promoting welfare in dogs. Learn how engaging activities, stimulating environments, and appropriate training can significantly enhance a dog's life, leading to happier, healthier canines. Create an environment that promotes growth, discovery, and joy.
Training Techniques and Equipment: Master a variety of proven, kind, and scientific training techniques that respect and acknowledge a dog's individuality. Familiarise yourself with the right equipment to support your training goals, and embark on a journey of transformation for both you and the dogs you work with. Equip yourself with the tools of the trade, shaping you into the canine professional you aspire to be.

Canine Needs: Delve into the core needs of canines, uncovering how to enhance their overall well-being.
Clickers & Markers: Dive into the world of clicker training and markers, uncovering a world of precise, rewarding communication with dogs.
Introducing A Clicker: Discover how to introduce a clicker to a dog, kickstarting your journey into effective, reward-based training.
Teaching Sit With A Lure/Capture: Learn the lure/capture method to teach a dog to sit, facilitating calm behavior and better control.
Focus: Understand how to enhance a dog's focus, key for successful training and enriched interactions.
Loose Lead Walking: Adopt techniques to ensure relaxed, enjoyable walks with your dog without the strain of pulling.

Canine Health and Domestication: Unlock the secrets of canine health and domestication as you journey through the centuries-old partnership between humans and dogs. Learn how this relationship has influenced the health and behaviors of modern dogs.
Dog Breeds and Breed Traits: Unravel the mystery of dog behaviour and decipher the silent language of our furry companions. This module offers a foundation understanding of how dogs communicate, interact, and express themselves, transforming your interactions with dogs into meaningful dialogues.
Common Canine Disease and Health Conditions: Prepare yourself to identify and understand common canine diseases and health conditions. With this knowledge in your toolkit, you'll be ready to provide the best care possible for dogs of all breeds and backgrounds.
Prevention: Empower yourself with effective strategies for disease prevention. Learn how to maintain a healthy environment, provide the right nutrition, and stay vigilant to keep diseases at bay, ensuring a healthy, happy life for the dogs you care for.
Health Checking: Become proficient at health checking. With expert guidance, you'll learn how to conduct regular, thorough health checks, allowing you to spot potential issues early and respond effectively. With these skills, you'll be well-equipped to ensure dogs under your care enjoy optimal health and wellbeing.
Training Techniques and Equipment: Master a variety of proven, kind, and scientific training techniques that respect and acknowledge a dog's individuality. Familiarise yourself with the right equipment to support your training goals, and embark on a journey of transformation for both you and the dogs you work with. Equip yourself with the tools of the trade, shaping you into the canine professional you aspire to be.

Co-operative Care - Master techniques that allow for a mutual understanding between you and your dog, enhancing their comfort during care routines.
Grooming - Discover the ins and outs of keeping your dog clean and comfortable, from brushing their coat to trimming their nails.
Chin Rest - Learn how to teach your dog the calming 'chin rest' cue, a technique that fosters trust and eases stress during procedures like grooming or health checks.
Unleashing Your Dog with Dr. Jessica Pierce - Join Dr. Jessica Pierce as she shares her expert insights on giving your dog more freedom for a happier, more balanced life.

On successful completion of this course, you will receive a Certificate of Qualification

All Canine Principles certificate holders are pre-approved for a Professional Membership with the National Institute for Canine Ethics , an ABTC Member Organisation.

This qualification meets the standard requirements to apply for an Animal Activities License through your local council.

As a Canine Principles student, you are eligible for a Totum Pro student discount card, with great savings on big brand shops, travel and more.

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Canine Principles e-learning platform allows instant access to your qualification.

Access on-demand videos, course e-books, notes and class discussions on the move

Pick up where you left off on any device for a seamless learning experience

Boost your confidence, master the field, become a qualified professional

No Wi-Fi? No Problem! Download your course books and study materials for offline study

Sign Up Today on your mobile then access your course on your laptop, tablet and smartphone at any time

Canine Principles e-Learning platform can be accessed instantly from any device with an internet connection.
Modules can also be downloaded for offline study.
Courses are written or recorded in English.
The minimum age for access to this qualification is 16 years+

We're confident that Canine Principles provides an amazing educational experience, with accurate and up to date course materials and friendly tutor support. We want you to be completely satisfied with your choice to enrol on any of our online dog courses. If you're not completely satisfied, we will provide a full refund within 14 days of enrolment, no questions asked.

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Canine Principles is a trading name of
CANINE PRINCIPLES LTD
Registered Company Number 11458645
VAT Registration Number: GB300008875
CPD Provider Registered Number: 60082
The CPD Standards Office

Welcome to Canine Principles

Thank you for enrolling on your learning experience. Your enrolment includes entry to the Canine Principles Facebook Study Group which is a highly positive group, filled with a vast range of experience. It would be great to have you join us.

Canine Principles welcomes students of all ability, experience and previous education. Whether you are a seasoned professional who wishes to further their personal development or an enthusiastic beginner with a passion for dogs, your self-paced study will be supported and guided with the same care and attention.

We appreciate it can be difficult and even daunting taking on a new study route. Education should be an enjoyable experience where the student is encouraged to thrive in their chosen field. We are far less concerned about grammar, spelling and formatting than we are about understanding the course material and demonstrating your knowledge of dogs.

Please don’t worry if you haven't studied for a while, you’re here now and that’s great. We aim for you to find this learning experience empowering and enlightening. With this in mind, we have prepared a short guide to help you achieve the most from your study.

Each individual has their own strengths, weaknesses and acquired skills that will help or hinder in their study. This guide is intended as an example of best practice that can easily be included in your current study routine.

Best Wishes,

Sally Gutteridge

Canine Principles Director of Studies

Get Some Exercise
In 2014, A University of Illinois Study, led by Dr. Chuck Hillman, found that as little as 20 minutes of exercise can lead to better cognition and memory, and higher scores on tests and examinations. This is great news for dog owners and something that you can definitely take advantage of as a daily walker.

Limit Distractions
Distractions can easily break our train of thought or pull us away from study all together. Find a suitable place to study that is conducive to learning. Set some time aside, ask for some privacy and turn off your phone.

Stay Hydrated
Dehydration contributes towards fatigue and poor memory. A 2012 study, conducted by the universities of East London and Westminster, found that results improved by an average of 10% when students kept hydrated throughout exams.

Read Out Loud
In 2015, Professor Victor Boucher of the University of Montreal completed research that suggested you are 50% more likely to remember information that has been read aloud than reading to yourself. You can either find a quiet place to read aloud to yourself or read directly to a friend or family member.

Teach as You Go
A step beyond reading aloud is to describe the lesson to somebody else. Try and make the subject understood and invite questions. If you don’t have the answer to the question, you have a new area of understanding to explore and study which will help to further your knowledge in a given subject.

Make Notes and Diagrams
Keep a pen and paper close to hand and be ready to note down specific areas of interest. Even if you are not artistic, a quick diagram that only you understand is a great aid to the memory and allows you to process the information in a different way.

Research
Even when you feel that you have fully understood a subject from the course material, take some time to research further by looking online, reading books or talking to others who are involved in the subject. The study group is a great place to meet like minded people who are also learning new topics.

Review
Going back over previous course topics and modules, with the benefit of newly acquired knowledge, can help us to understand the connection between subjects. If we only focus on one subject in isolation, the connection may never be made.

Create Flash Cards
Flashcards are a great way to test your knowledge. Write a subject on one side of the card and then explain the subject on the opposite side. You can either draw the cards randomly and test your own knowledge or ask a friend to help.

Each course will have a unique grading system, dependant on the number of questions and exercises available.

Assessments will begin by advising the maximum possible score for each section and how this score can be achieved. Every module has an overall pass mark of 80%. Whilst the pass score is 80%, any assessment that scores below this will be returned with constructive feedback. Feedback is intended to describe where further marks can be achieved. You can re-submit a revised assessment to improve your score.

Assessments that score between 80% and 100% will also be returned with feedback, however, there will be no further grading as the threshold for passing the module has been met.

Each assessment will be marked and returned within 3 - 5 days of receipt by your tutor. If you have submitted an assessment and have not received any correspondence within 4 days, contact us here, via email or the study group to confirm the assessment has been received.

Plagiarism is defined as:

“the practice of taking someone else's work or ideas and passing them off as one's own”
https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/plagiarism accessed online February 2018

Canine Principles has a duty of care to identify and deter plagiarism in order to comply with accreditation standards.

Before marking, all work is checked against Copyscape, an online plagiarism detection service. To avoid plagiarism, all work should contain original writing with the exception of small quotes and properly referenced research.

External research is a great way to improve your knowledge on any subject. Often, a course subject will be focused on the specific area that is relevant to the type of course. A course that covers the topic of scentwork may describe the scenting ability of a dog in great detail, whereas a course that covers dog training in general may only include a foundation knowledge of the same subject. For this reason, external research can provide an invaluable way of expanding on specific course subjects.

When you choose to include external research as part of your assessment, it is important that the work is clearly referenced. If you have previously studied at a higher level, you will be aware that there are many ways to reference your research. For the purpose of Canine Principles assessments, we are happy for you to include your references at the end of each answer.

References from online research can be included as a link to the source of the information:

Example:

...During a stressful experience, the canine immune system will begin to shut off nonessential functions in order to maximise the chances of survival. “The body sees no point in digesting food when danger is upon it. Neither does it place emphasis on fighting disease, for it is putting all that effort into fighting the threat on life itself, so the immune system shuts down.”...

(https://canineprinciples.com/fear-dog-physical-illness/ accessed online Feb 2018)

References from printed publications can be included in the following format:

Example:

A common mistake made by dog owners is to misinterpret canine communication in a way that suits our own style of communication and body language. “Anthropomorphism, the attribution of Human characteristics to non-human creatures – to phenomena such as weather, and even inanimate objects like rivers and mountains – is an intrinsic part of human nature.”

(John Bradshaw, In Defence of Dogs P.148)

In both examples, the external research is highlighted as a quotation and clearly referenced.

The following section includes 3 different answers to the same question. All of these answers are correct, however they will each vary in the level of demonstrated understanding.

Question: Describe how you would apply an emergency improvised muzzle to a dog, for the purpose of performing first aid safely.

i. Create a large loop in a bandage and slowly slip it over the dog’s muzzle. Tighten the loop so the dog’s mouth remains closed and he can’t open it. Pass the ends under the chin, knot again and then tie behind the ears to secure it.

This answer describes the correct process of applying an emergency muzzle. The method is correct; however, no consideration has been given to safety. To improve on this, and answer the full question, we can include more detail...

ii. Slowly approach the dog, talking gently. Create a large loop in the gauze bandage and slowly slip it over the dog’s muzzle. At this point, it is best to stand behind the dog. Tighten the loop so the dog’s mouth remains closed and he can’t open it, not so tight as to cause pain. Pass the ends under the chin, knot again and then tie behind the ears to secure it.

This answer has improved and includes personal safety advice. We now have a correct answer that covers the whole question. To demonstrate our understanding of the subject, we can go one step further and cover the whole subject in greater detail.

iii. Any injured dog, no matter how gentle they are normally, can bite when painful or panicked. Unfortunately, an injured animal is highly likely to bite, even if you are trying to help them. You may also be in a situation where you need to help a strange dog during an emergency. It is a useful and important skill to be able to muzzle a dog in an emergency situation. Some people will carry a muzzle in their car for emergency situations. However, you can also use a shoelace or gauze bandage. Slowly approach the dog side on, talking gently to reassure them. Be mindful of the dog’s body language and communication efforts while he is experiencing pain. Create a large loop in the gauze bandage and slowly slip it over the dog’s muzzle. At this point it is best to stand behind the dog to prevent direct eye contact. Tighten the loop so the dog’s mouth remains closed and he can’t open it, not so tight as to cause pain. Pass the ends under the chin, knot again and then tie behind the ears to secure it. NEVER apply a muzzle if the dog is struggling to breathe or vomiting.

This final version is an excellent demonstration of the whole subject. We have added information about the subject of emergency muzzles and included advice for keeping the dog free from additional pain or suffering.

You will receive positive, personal feedback from tutors who are always available to answer any questions and guide you through your learning experience. If you ever have any questions about course material or assessments, you can contact us here via email or through the study group.

Students are also encouraged to support each other, through access to a private study group where discussions and new information are shared daily.

Students are also encouraged to support each other, through access to a private study group where discussions and new information are shared daily.

Canine Principles offers both self-paced and time sensitive courses.

Self-paced - All CPD Diploma Courses, CPD Certificate Courses, Workshops, Webinars and Self Study Courses are completely self-paced learning with no deadlines for assessments or completion.

Qualifications - All regulated qualifications inherit a 2 year registration period. The cost of registration is included with initial enrolment. When the 2 year registration period expires, students may re-register for an additional registration fee. Fees vary by course, please contact us for details.

CPD Courses
Upon successful completion of your course, you will receive 2 certificates. The first certificate is supplied by Canine Principles and the second is supplied by the CPD Standards Office. All Certificates are available to download on successful completion and marking of the final exercise.

Qualifications
Upon successful completion of your course, you will receive 2 certificates. The first certificate is supplied by Canine Principles and the second is supplied by AIM Qualifications, an independent awarding body. Both certificates will be available as a digital downloads only.

All Other Courses & Workshops
These courses come with a single Canine Principles digital certificate of completion.

You will receive positive, personal feedback from Tutors who are always available to answers any questions and guide you through your learning experience. Tutors will respond to assessments within 48 hours (72 hours during weekends)

Students are also encouraged to support each other through built in student community and private Facebook Study Group. where discussions and new information are shared daily.

Thank you!

Canine Principles courses are externally accredited and have been reviewed by the accrediting body for quality and content.

Qualifications Canine Principles is an AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group recognised centre and has been approved to deliver AIM Qualifications. AIM Are an awarding body recognised by Ofqual.

Registered Provider Number: 161711
Each qualification carries an 8 digit qualification number that can be referenced against the existing qualification framework.

CPD courses are accredited by the CPD Standards Office.

All students must be aged 18 years+

Courses are assessed at the end of each module.

Qualifications Each module of a regulated qualification course, typically includes 2-4 written exercises and represent the module as a whole. Word counts and referencing guidelines are made clear for each assessment. Tutors will score assessments based on the agreed learning objectives. Students must keep an evidence file of all assessments for external auditing purposes.

CPD Courses The format may vary, dependent on the course. Typically, each module of a certificate course includes 5 - 10 revision questions and a single exercise.

Self Study Courses These courses are assessed via multiple choice quizzes.

Enrol on your chosen course directly from the course overview page.

Enrolled courses can be accessed anytime via the student dashboard. Once you are logged in to you account, select your course and you will be taken directly to the learning materials.

Online elements require an internet connection and suitable device.

Course books can be studied online or downloaded for offline reading.

Solutions to common account issues:

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Skill-Hub courses are only available while there is an active subscription. Check your account to show the most recent payments and membership expiry.

Occasionally, students have more than one account as they have signed up for a free course or newsletter with a different email. Contact us using the form to solve this issue.

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Check all spelling is correct. Check the email account for previous correspondence from Canine Principles. If everything seems normal, contact us using the form to solve this issue.

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Manage subscription
You can manage your subscription settings directly from your student account page.

We welcome students of any age*, education or previous experience. Occasionally, our courses will require some prior learning. This will always be made clear in the course description.

(*All students must be aged 18 years+)

Canine Principles Skill-Hub is a monthly/annual subscription learning service. Membership allows unlimited* access to all self-study courses, workshops and webinars. Some courses and workshops are exclusive to the Skill-Hub, including the Skill-Hub members area, including presentations, interviews and webinars from a variety of Canine Professionals.

The 3 day free trial requires credit/debit card details to begin. Your card will be billed automatically when the trial expires and every month subsequently.

You can manage your subscription here.

We currently have students and graduates from over 30 countries worldwide. Online learning allows us to support all students, no matter where in the world you may be.

All courses are online study. You will not need to travel for assessments.

All Courses are written in the English language.

AIM qualifications only apply to students from the UK.

Canine Principles offers both self-paced and time sensitive courses.

Self-paced - All CPD Diploma Courses, CPD Certificate Courses, Workshops, Webinars and Self Study Courses are completely self-paced learning with no deadlines for assessments or completion.

Qualifications - All regulated qualifications inherit a 2 year registration period. The cost of registration is included with initial enrolment. When the 2 year registration period expires, students may re-register for an registration fee. Fees vary by course. Please contact us for details.

Canine Principles pledges to teach only kind, force-free, positive methods that promote mental and physical well-being for dogs, in line with current scientific research. Our courses occasionally discuss the use of other training methods, with the intention of providing education in why these approaches are ineffective and harmful to learning.

You will receive positive, personal feedback from Tutors who are always available to answers any questions and guide you through your learning experience. Tutors will respond to assessments within 72 hours (98 hours during weekends)

Students are also encouraged to support each other through built in student community and private Facebook Study Group. where discussions and new information are shared daily.

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Your Level 2 Award - Canine Care & Welfare Is Waiting...

Canine Care & Welfare

Learn how to care for dogs, with a nationally recognised qualification.

Understand the Care and Welfare Needs Of Dogs With A Nationally Recognised Qualification

What's in the canine care & welfare qualification?

Sally Gutteridge

What's in the Course?

Module 1: Canine Welfare and Behaviour Needs

Module 1: Bonus Video Workshops

Module 2: Canine Care and Health Needs

Module 2: Bonus Video Workshops

Certificate of
Achievement

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Activities Involving Animals License

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Welcome Back

Your Level 2 Award - Canine Care & Welfare Is Waiting...

Canine Care & Welfare

Learn how to care for dogs, with a nationally recognised qualification.

Understand the Care and Welfare Needs Of Dogs With A Nationally Recognised Qualification

What's in the canine care & welfare qualification?

Sally Gutteridge

What's in the Course?

Module 1: Canine Welfare and Behaviour Needs

Module 1: Bonus Video Workshops

Module 2: Canine Care and Health Needs

Module 2: Bonus Video Workshops

Certificate of Achievement

NICE Membership

Activities Involving Animals License

Student Discounts

Course Bundles Available

Canine Care &Welfare +Nutrition & Health

Save Over £140

Ready To Learn

What methods will I learn?

Does this qualification meet licensing requirements?

Who can join the qualification?

Are there any course requirements?

How is the qualification assessed?

Is this course accredited?

How many study credits will I gain?

14 Day Satisfaction Guarantee

2 Ways to Enrol

Choose a payment option to suit your study budget.

Single Payment

£299

Spread the Cost

£100

Recommended For You

Follow Us

Exclusive News & Offers

Canine Principles#Dog Skills For Humans

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Welfare +
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