Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
23/07/2026 4:57 AM AWST

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Care for and train working dogs

Care for and train working dogs

Unit of competency
National Code
AHCLSK363
State Code
OFF38
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
11/02/2025
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
11/08/2025
Field of Education
050105 - Animal Husbandry
Original Release Date
11/08/2025
Nominal Hours
30
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to select, train and care for working dogs in the rural industry.The unit applies to individuals who care for and train working dogs under broad direction and take responsibility for their own work.This unit applies to farm workers who use dogs to handle livestock.All work must be carried out to comply with workplace procedures, according to state/territory health and safety regulations, legislation and standards that apply to the workplace, and animal welfare legislation, regulations, standards and guidelines, and sustainability and biosecurity practices.In addition to legal responsibilities, all units of competency dealing with animals in the AHC Agriculture, Horticulture and Conservation and Land Management Training Package have the requirements for animals to be handled humanely to minimise stress and discomfort.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Identify workplace requirements and select working dog
  • 1.1 Identify and confirm working dog requirements for the workplace
  • 1.2 Research suitable working dog breeds and determine availability
  • 1.3 Inspect dogs for suitability and make selection according to workplace criteria
2. Develop and implement training program for working dog
  • 2.1 Identify hazards and risks and implement safe working practices to manage risks
  • 2.2 Teach commands for working tasks
  • 2.3 Introduce the dog to a small flock or herd in a confined area
  • 2.4 Train the dog to handle larger numbers of livestock in open areas
  • 2.5 Train the dog on specialist skills such as backing and forcing
  • 2.6 Safely handle working dog, and handle livestock using good stock handling techniques and according to animal welfare practices
3. Maintain health and welfare of working dog
  • 3.1 Monitor and maintain health and condition of the working dog
  • 3.2 Provide an adequate and balanced diet to meet nutritional requirements of the working dog according to workload and training program
  • 3.3 Seek veterinary advice and arrange for or administer preventative health treatments
  • 3.4 Provide and maintain housing facilities and equipment according to workplace animal welfare practices and requirements
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
BAS22 AHCLSK324 Care for and train working dogs Unit of competency
State Code National Code Title Type
BJB3 AHC30122 Certificate III in Agriculture Qualification