iPET Network has launched the UK's first-ever Ofqual regulated dog breeding qualification, in bid to support animal welfare. The organisation collaborated with ethical dog breeder Rebecca Walters.

The ground-breaking course guides would-be and existing breeders on best practice and aims to stamp our poor welfare standards in UK dog breeding.

Rebecca Walters, who runs Pupstarts Breeders in Oswestry and championed the course, is passionate about breeding dogs in an ethical and welfare-driven way.

She said: "We are so excited to be offering this qualification, and aim to upskill the dog breeding world by providing quality education and training to benefit the dogs of the future."

Sarah Mackay, co-director of the iPET Network, said: "This course represents a sea-change in the world of dog breeding, and we think that it is change for the better.

"Dog breeding is a lucrative industry which can lead to poor process, but we believe that breeders should be trained in best practice, to ensure that all new puppies are happy and healthy."

Co-director Fern Gresty added: "There are lots of responsible dog breeders out there, and our course is perfect for anyone looking to refresh their skills and get up to date on new ideals around breeding for welfare.

"It's also perfect for anyone new who is looking to become a dog breeder, essential in fact."

Registrations for the qualification are now open and leaders have been heartened by a solid number of sign-ups.

Rebecca added: "Following the pandemic puppy boom dog breeding has become a growth industry, which obviously creates welfare concerns. 

"But we have been really pleased to see so many people expressing interest or signing up for our course, in an effort to put the rights of the dogs at the heart of what they do."

To find out more iPET Network and other available qualifications head to www.ipetnetwork.co.uk