Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 11:45 PM AWST

Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.

Provide general care of domestic dogs

Provide general care of domestic dogs

Unit of competency
National Code
ACMSPE316
State Code
ODC39
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
13/04/2021
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
26/07/2021
Field of Education
050105 - Animal Husbandry
Original Release Date
26/07/2021
Nominal Hours
20
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to identify dogs and their behavioural and physical needs, and provide daily care requirements.This unit applies to individuals working in the animal care industry where domestic dogs are bred, reared, trained, cared for or housed. This may include animal shelters, pet shops, breeding or boarding kennels, companion animal training or grooming establishments or similar workplaces. This unit applies to individuals who work under broad supervision and provide and communicate solutions to a range of predictable problems.All work must be carried out to comply with workplace procedures according to Commonwealth and state/territory health and safety and animal welfare regulations, legislation and standards that apply to the workplace.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Identify common dog breeds
  • 1.1 Define the breed characteristics of dogs commonly cared for within the facility
  • 1.2 Identify and describe physical characteristics of dogs using industry terminology
  • 1.3 Identify breeds of dogs using industry classification and terminology
  • 1.4 Define, interpret and document breed, colours, markings and other identifying features
2. Identify and evaluate behavioural and housing needs
  • 2.1 Identify indicators of animal comfort and normal behaviour
  • 2.2 Recognise signs of distress and report to supervisor
  • 2.3 Identify industry standards and guidelines for housing design, environmental factors and appropriate stocking densities
  • 2.4 Assess current animal housing design in relation to the welfare of the dogs kept and legislation requirements
  • 2.5 Identify behavioural enrichment activities for specific dog
3. Handle and restrain dogs
  • 3.1 Identify workplace health and safety risks associated with handling and restraining dogs
  • 3.2 Implement methods to minimise safety risks and use appropriate personal protective equipment
  • 3.3 Select and use humane equipment to restrain and handle dogs according to current scientifically validated approaches
  • 3.4 Approach and restrain dogs using low stress handling techniques to minimise risks to the animal and others
4. Assist with health care needs
  • 4.1 Identify signs of good health in dogs
  • 4.2 Report signs of disease or other conditions to supervisor
  • 4.3 Identify general health maintenance and preventative treatment procedures, and implement in line with level of job responsibility
5. Feed dogs
  • 5.1 Identify digestive system features and relate to dog-specific feeding routines and diets
  • 5.2 Identify preferred food sources and assess for quality and suitability
  • 5.3 Identify potential feeding hazards and implement risk control options
  • 5.4 Prepare food in accordance with dietary needs
  • 5.5 Distribute food and water according to schedule feeding plan or animal requirements
6. Maintain records
  • 6.1 Complete feed and treatment records noting food consumption, health and care activities
  • 6.2 Report abnormalities to supervisor
  • 6.3 Complete documentation relevant to licences and transport, where required
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
BBD98 ACMSPE304 Provide basic care of domestic dogs Unit of competency