Dogging vs. Rigging: Which Course Should You Choose First?

If you're thinking about a career in lifting operations, cranes, or the construction field, you've likely come across the terms "rigging" and "dogging." They are similar professions but far from identical. So, what do you do first? It depends on your aspirations. But most should begin with dogging courses.

Dogging training instructs you on how to move loads safely using cranes. You will be trained on how to choose the appropriate equipment, add slings and chains, and provide audible signals for operating cranes. This is the fundamental skill utilised in most rigging activities, and it’s normally the initial course that’s attended.

What Is Dogging?

Dogging is all about helping cranes lift and move heavy loads safely. Dogging involves two key things:

• Choosing and setting up lifting gear (like chains and hooks)
• Directing crane movements using hand signals or radios

Doggers help make sure the load is balanced and safe before the lift begins. They work closely with crane operators and riggers. Crane operations usually can't proceed without the support of a qualified dogger. There are many dogging courses available to improve your dogging skills and build your career.

In Australia, you must hold a high-risk work license to perform dogging tasks. The Dogging course is a great way to get started and covers both gear use and communication skills.

What is Rigging?

Ragging comes after dogging and involves more advanced work. It involves more advanced tasks like:

• Setting up cranes, hoists, and winches
• Building a support structure or towers
• Using ropes and pulleys to move loads

There are three levels of rigging:

• Basic
• Intermediate
• Advanced

You must complete a dogging course before moving to basic rigging. This is why taking dogging courses first is a wise decision. It gives you the foundation needed for all rigging work.

Key Differences

Task	Dogging	Rigging
Lifting gear setup	Yes	Yes
Crane signals	Yes	No
Setting up cranes and hoists	No	Yes
Building and moving structures	No	Yes

So, dogging is about lifting and guiding, while rigging is about building and placing. Both are important, but dogging is the base for all rigging work.

Which One First?

If you’re just getting started in this field, enrolling in a dogging course is the best first step. It teaches safety, tools, and load control, all things you’ll need later in the rigging. Also, you can’t do a rigging course until you’ve completed dogging.

Once you’ve done dogging, you can take basic rigging and later go for intermediate or advanced levels as your skills grow. Taking dogging first also helps you feel more confident around cranes and lifting gear. You will already understand how loads move and how to work safely, which makes learning rigging much easier and faster.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between dogging and rigging? Start with dogging; it gives you the core skills you will need for both roles. It is also the required first step for getting into rigging. Start your journey today with the Dogging Course at Australian Easy Train. With expert trainers, hands-on training, and support, we will help you earn your license and get job-ready with confidence. Learn the course at your flexible timings with utmost support and guidance, become a certified dogger, and build your career path.