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the calm, happy, well-mannered dog you actually enjoy living with

Play-based training rooted in building a strong relationship, supporting your dog’s emotional health, and building reliable obedience.

REAL DOGS, REAL RESULTS

READY TO GET STARTED?

Book your free 30-minute Better Manners Consult and let’s create a plan tailored to your dog and lifestyle.
During this call we’ll:
- Discuss your biggest challenges
- Assess what your dog needs
- Map out the best path forward
Limited spots available each month.

HOW WE WORK TOGETHER

I don’t sell cookie-cutter programs. We look at your dog, your house, your week, your goals, and what’s actually getting in the way — then we pick the approach that fits.Private lessons
One-on-one, at your house, in the neighbourhood, or on the trails. Real situations, not a classroom. You’re in it with the dog. Best when you want to learn the work yourself and keep it going between visits.
Day training
I take your dog for the day. Training, repetition, and play — then a private lesson so the work comes home with you, not just the dog. Best when the dog needs consistent reps and you still want to be involved in the process.
Board and Train
Your dog stays with me. One dog at a time — not a kennel, not a pack. Best when weekly lessons aren’t enough and daily structure is what will actually move things forward.

ABOUT ME

I’m Marek Wojtaszek, a Salt Spring Island dog trainer helping families create joyful, reliable relationships with their dogs using play-based methods.I use play because a game only works if you both cooperate. There are rules, rewards, and consequences. That is how you get clear communication and a dog who wants to work with you. It helps create a relationship that holds up on the trail, at the door, and on the ferry, and not just when you’re holding a treat.Living in Vancouver and now on Salt Spring has given me a clear picture of city life, ferries, trails, wildlife, and island living. When I’m not training, I’m out on those same trails with my own dog.

Exclusive Weekend Adventure + Training Retreats

Experience a truly one-of-a-kind private adventure retreat on the stunning trails, beaches, and forests of Salt Spring Island, custom-designed exclusively for your dog.Every retreat is fully bespoke and built around your dog’s unique personality, age, energy level, training goals, and preferences.Whether your dog thrives on adventurous forest hikes, loves chasing waves on the beach, enjoys calm scent work in the woods, or just wants relaxed one-on-one time in nature, we tailor every activity to what they love most.What makes it truly effortless and personalized:Door-to-door service — I pick up and drop off your dog directly from your home in Greater Vancouver or on the islands.
Fully custom experience — Share your dog’s favorite toys, treats, routines, dietary needs, or any special requests, and I’ll incorporate them seamlessly.
One dog only — Limited to a single dog per retreat for my complete, undivided attention and the calmest, most stress-free environment possible.
This isn’t a standard boarding or group program — it’s a private, tailored adventure that combines play-based training progress with the kind of island experience most dogs only dream about.Limited spots available. Give your dog the ultimate personalized island getaway before spots fill up.

Limited Availability – Let’s Get Your Dog on the Right Path

Because I personally handle every dog and am committed to outstanding results, I only accept 4–6 new clients per month. Don’t wait until your dog’s behaviour becomes more difficult or you miss another season of enjoyable island adventures.Book your free consult today and take the first step toward a calmer, happier life with your dog.

Play-Based Dog Training on
Salt Spring Island

[email protected]Service areas:
Salt Spring Island and Gulf Islands
Southern Vancouver Island
Greater Vancouver

Copyright: Island Trails Dog Training and Retreat 2026