About Us

At Smart Choice Dog Training, we take a modern, science-based and positive approach to training and behaviour support, always guided by one simple principle: See the Dog in front of you. Every dog learns differently, and we tailor our support to suit each individual dog and their unique story.

Based in Croydon in Melbourne’s outer eastern suburbs, we offer small group classes, private consultations and walk-and-train sessions designed to meet dogs where they are at. Whether you’re laying strong foundations or working through more complex behaviour patterns, our focus is always on clarity, trust and helping both ends of the lead feel more connected.

We place a strong emphasis on clear communication between you and your dog, building skills that feel achievable in real life. Not just in class. The goal is a relationship built on understanding, confidence and mutual trust.

If you’re looking for a positive reinforcement trainer in the Croydon area who takes the time to truly understand your dog, we’d love to support you and your dog’s journey.

Amanda

Hi, I’m Amanda Palich, the founder of Smart Choice Dog Training. I am passionate about helping both people and dogs, and I ventured into dog training to improve the understanding between them. Whether clients have brought their puppy home at 8 weeks of age or adopted an older dog, my goal is to help them develop confident, well-mannered companions who fit harmoniously into family life. I use humane, science-based methods that promote trust, optimism, and well-being in the dogs I work with, to create well-rounded individuals who have a strong bond with their guardians.

I have experience in various aspects of dog training, including companion dogs, assistance dogs, therapy dogs, obedience, flyball, agility, and rally. This diverse experience gives me a broad perspective and helps me support guardians in building practical life skills, confidence, and teamwork with their dogs.

My training has a strong focus on rewarding desirable behaviour and supporting welfare so that dogs are motivated to make positive choices.  I strive to ensure everyone enjoys themselves during training sessions, even when they find their dog challenging. I truly enjoy seeing both dogs and their guardians grow in confidence together.

As an educated, force-free professional, I am committed to the highest ethical standards and to continually developing my skills. Dog training is an ever-evolving field, and I ensure my methods remain current, effective, and science-based. Alongside formal study, I attend national conferences, hands-on workshops, and other professional development opportunities. I am a proud member of Pet Professional Guild Australia (PPGA), Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) Australia, and Delta Institute.

By following the Pet Professional Guild Australia’s guiding principles and Code of Ethical Conduct, I ensure that Smart Choice Dog Training provides humane, professional, and compassionate care for every dog and their family.

Memberships, Qualifications & Credentials:

Qualifications & Professional Roles

  • Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training, Delta Institute

  • Fear Free Animal Trainer

  • MindDog Approved Trainer

  • Delta Therapy Dogs Assessor & Team Trainer

Memberships

  • Pet Professional Guild of Australia (PPGA) - Dog Training Professional Member

  • Fear Free Pet Professional Member

  • Association of Pet Dog Trainers Australia Inc (APDT) - Accredited Professional Dog Trainer Member

  • Delta Institute - Graduate Member

Health & Safety

  • Pet First Aid & CPR, PetTech

  • Mental Health First Aid, Mental Health First Aid Australia

  • First Aid, Fire Safety Australia

  • CPR, Fire Safety Australia

  • Basic Emergency Life Support, Fire Safety Australia

Understanding dogs is an ongoing journey, as the dog training industry is always evolving. I value continuing education and regularly invest in professional development to provide compassionate, science-based support that helps both dogs and their guardians feel confident and understood.

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