OUR STORY

With a wealth of experience and knowledge, Alice Smith—founder and head trainer at Elite Canine—has helped countless dog owners across Adelaide achieve results that redefine their relationships with their dogs. Alice believes that clear, responsive communication is at the core of every successful owner–dog partnership.

Since founding the business, she has remained committed to educating owners on effective training techniques. Each program is tailored to suit the individual dog, the household environment, and the owner's goals—always with a focus on long-term success and clarity in training.

Alice holds a Bachelor of Animal Science from the University of Adelaide and has trained with the National Dog Trainers Federation, having studied in both Western Australia and New South Wales. What sets Alice apart is her dedication to ongoing learning and growth. By training with leading local and international professionals, she continually expands her knowledge, gaining new tools, experience, and insight.

In addition to leading Elite Canine, Alice is the founder of South Australian Detection Dogs, where she develops operational narcotics detection dogs for private-sector deployment. Her work in this specialised field demands precision, discipline, and performance under pressure—qualities that also influence her broader approach to clients of Elite Canine.

At Elite Canine, we maintain a strong standard of professionalism, care, and results. Whether you're raising a new puppy or working through behavioural challenges, you're in expert hands.

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Alice's Training and Experience

EDUCATION:

  • National Dog Trainers Federation Certification
  • Bachelor of Animal Science: University of Adelaide
  • Certificate III in Animal Care and Husbandry
  • Certificate in First Aid

INDUSTRY LEARNING:

  • Tobias Gustavsson - Online Detection Development Training
  • Detector Dogs Australia Mentoring
  • Daniel Tropiano - Ignition NePoPo Seminar
  • Scandinavian Working Dog Institute - Online Detection Training.
  • Hans Verbruggen 2024 NePoPo Seminar
  • Cameron Ford - Ford K9 Detection (80+ hours online training)
  • Ryan Tate - Scent Detection Course
  • Jaclyn Dagampat - NePoPo 4 Day Seminar
  • Alex Edward - Behavioural Training Seminar
  • Trish Harris - Behavioural Training Seminar
  • Natalie Dobkins (20+ hours online training)
  • Glenn Cooke - NDTF Scent Detection

EXPERIENCE:

  • Owner and Trainer at Elite Canine International
  • Owner of South Australian Detection Dogs
  • Substitute Dog Trainer at Dog Club SA
  • Former Training Assistant at other training facilities
  • Former Kennel Attendant at Beau's Pet Hotel and Guide Dogs SA/NT
  • Former Owner of Molly Dog Grooming (8 years)

2024 Police Check and Working with Children Check

Our trainers undergo routine Police Checks and possess updated Working with Children Certifications.

Please find the attached documentation here.

  • Police Check
  • Working with Children Check - Unique ID: SRN 1139-9034

MEET ELSIE

THE DOG WHO TAUGHT ME WHAT NOT TO DO

Born in September 2009, Elsie is Alice’s beloved Spoodle and the original inspiration behind her journey into professional dog training. From extreme reactivity, no formal obedience, separation anxiety and countless dog-dog attacks, Elsie once ticked nearly every behavioural challenge in the book.

Despite starting formal training at the age of 12, Elsie proved that it’s never too late to learn. Her progress has been nothing short of remarkable, showing resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to engage in a new way of life.

One of Alice’s proudest achievements is the successful reintroduction of Elsie to safe, structured social play after more than eight years of no contact with other dogs. Through a carefully designed behaviour modification program, she helped rebuild Elsie’s confidence and social tolerance—highlighting that with the right guidance, progress is possible at any age.

Elsie’s journey has shaped Alice’s understanding of what it truly means to be a responsible dog owner. She remains a daily reminder that every dog has the potential to thrive when given the right tools and support.

MEET MATILDA

THE DOG WHO TAUGHT ME THAT GENETICS MATTER

Born in May 2024, Matilda is Alice’s young Hungarian Vizsla and the future face of South Australian Detection Dogs. Currently in training to become South Australia's first privately deployed narcotics detection dog, Matilda represents the next generation of precision working dogs.

Alice shares that raising and developing a gundog like Matilda has been a powerful reminder of the importance of genetics in selecting the right dog for the right purpose. With exceptional progress well beyond her age, Matilda continues to impress with her drive, focus, and work ethic.

Their journey is being documented on Instagram at @matildaa.vizslaa, where Alice shares training insights, milestones, and behind-the-scenes moments for those interested in following along.