Mark G.
Foster Powell, Portland, OR
Services
Prices may vary based on your selections. A booking fee of 11% will apply.
Mark can host
Availability
I’m 44 years old, I’ve been in Portland since 1991, and I live alone in a home I own — I’ve been in my current house since 2011. I’ve had German Shepherds my whole adult life, and dogs have always been a big part of my day-to-day. Most of my family lives in the area, and my sister also watches dogs through Rover. I’m a photojournalist and data visualization specialist, so I work from my home office most days, with 2–4 local assignments a week. Most of the time I’m gone 30 minutes to about two hours, and it’s rare I’m away longer than four. I've been in journalism for the last 20 years. Every once in a while I’ll get an assignment where a well-behaved dog could come along — things like a quick trip to Sauvie Island to photograph a corn maze, or heading out to shoot windsurfers. I’d never take your pup anywhere without your permission, but if you’re comfortable with it and it makes sense for your dog, I’m happy to talk about it. I’m also a big dog-park fan, so if that’s part of your dog’s routine (and you’re OK with it), I’m happy to incorporate it too.
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About Mark G.
Communication
Dog skills
Safety, trust & environment
In the mornings, the first thing I do is feed the dogs — still in my PJs, usually before coffee — then it’s straight outside. Midday/afternoon I always try to get a walk or run in. I also like doing a little “brain work” with dogs: goofing off, practicing simple skills, and using snacks as rewards (with your OK). No two dogs are the same, and I try to cater to what each dog actually feels like doing that day. Some want to play and explore, some want structure and a job, and some just want to nap near people and be left in peace — all good. Viggo’s favorite is scent work — basically hide-and-seek for dogs. Not every dog takes to it, but I’ll always try, and Viggo usually helps show them the idea. I’ll have a dog smell an item, tuck them in the mud room for a minute, hide it, then release them to track it down. Some dogs find it in two minutes, some take 20 — either way, they’re proud of themselves. Evenings are dinner, feeding on your schedule, and winding down — everyone chilling together on or by the couch.
Home
Information Mark G. would like to know about your pet
Before the stay, it helps a lot to know the basics of your dog’s routine. Please let me know about any special needs (medical or behavioral) and I’ll do my best to accommodate. I also need your dog’s feeding schedule, treat rules, and any medication instructions. It’s great to have an emergency contact, plus the name and number of your preferred veterinarian. I do best with dogs that are reliably potty trained and non-aggressive toward people and other dogs. If your dog has quirks or triggers, just tell me up front — no judgment. The more I know, the smoother (and safer) the stay.
A typical day
There’s no such thing as a “typical day” at my house — it depends on who’s here and how many dogs are on the roster. Most of the time it’s just one or two guest dogs (plus Viggo), so it stays calm and manageable. Mornings: Breakfast happens immediately — usually while I’m still in pajamas and before coffee. Then it’s straight outside. Midday/afternoon: I take a break from work for a walk or run. After that it’s choose-your-own-adventure based on your dog’s vibe: yard time, couch time, supervised play, or following me around like a tiny furry manager. Bonus activities (optional, not daily): If a dog is into it, we’ll do a quick mind game or Viggo’s favorite — scent work/hide-and-seek. Some dogs are naturals, some look at me like, “Sir, I’m just here for snacks.” Evenings: Dinner, feeding on your schedule, then wind-down mode — everyone posted up on or near the couch like we’re watching a very serious documentary about squirrels. The main rule is simple: I tailor the day to the dog in front of me — their energy, personality, and comfort level.
Location
Portland, OR
Pets
The good-dog guesthouse
Pet care experience
My priorities: safe and happy dogs. That’s Bark with Mark. If you’re looking for a safe, structured, dog-first home while you’re away, you’re in the right spot. I’ll enjoy your dog’s company — and I’ll do my best to make sure they enjoy mine, too. I grew up with German Shepherds, beagles, dachshunds and malamute mixes, and I’ve cared for dogs at every stage of life — from high-energy puppies to 16-year-old Great Danes on medication with special needs who’ve earned the right to take it slow. My 4.5-year-old German Shepherd, Viggo, is friendly, well-socialized, and happy to meet new dogs — old, young, cranky, wild or goofy. My home is built for dogs: fully fenced front and back yards, hardwood floors, and plenty of space to sniff, explore, play, or just relax. The couch folds flat into a giant dog bed where dogs can relax and watch dog TV if they want. I keep toys mostly picked up and introduce them gradually so everyone settles in without jealousy or tension. Around here, every dog gets treats (with your OK), lots of pets, and frequent reminders that they’re a very good dog. I work from my home office, and most dogs end up napping nearby — often curled up by the fake fireplace. Dogs have free range of the house, and in the warmer months I usually leave the door to the fenced backyard open so they can go in and out as they please. Supervision and safety is key. I have a kind of fifth sense for keeping track of dogs, and if a dog isn’t in my direct line of sight, I can check in using Nest cameras in the backyard, living room, and dining area. They’re helpful for quick peace of mind — and occasionally for solving the classic mystery of “who did what where.” I’m also exploring ways to let pet parents check in remotely during longer stays. I’m a photographer for a living, so I naturally take a ton of photos and videos of visiting dogs. The numbers on my Rover profile don’t reflect how much I send (my reviews certainly do), because I usually text updates directly to your phone — it’s faster and easier than uploading everything through Rover (if you want to stick with Rover, that’s fine too). For repeat clients — or anyone who wants one — I also have a studio in my attic and can take portrait-style photos of your dog as a fun extra. (If you're interested let me know and I'll send you some examples) I know leaving your dog with someone new can feel stressful. My goal is to make it simple: a warm home, close attention, and a dog who feels comfortable, cared for, and part of the household. If it sounds like a good fit, I’d love to set up a quick meet-and-greet.
Reviews
Zuzu came home happy and tired. Mark was communicative and friendly.
Mark went above and beyond taking care of Enzo during my trip. Not only is he an exceptional photographer, but he also genuinely cared about making sure Enzo felt comfortable, happy, and engaged while I was away. He took some incredibly cool photos of Enzo and shared them with me throughout the stay, which I really appreciated. One of my favorite parts was seeing how much fun Enzo had with Mark’s dog, Viggo. Looks like Enzo made a really good friend during his stay. They played together, and Mark has a wonderful backyard that gave them plenty of space to run around and enjoy themselves. I also appreciated Mark’s kindness and flexibility when my return flight was significantly delayed. I unexpectedly wasn’t able to pick Enzo up that night, and Mark was incredibly understanding and accommodating, allowing me to pick him up the next morning instead. Overall, I felt at ease knowing Enzo was in such good hands. I would absolutely recommend Mark to anyone looking for a caring and reliable sitter, and I would gladly book with him again for future trips.
Mark was great for us. Never used a dog sitter before and was nervous going into it. But mark made this experience very nice. Kept me updated and lots of photos and videos of the pups playing. Was very nice to have a sitter who has experience with German shepherds too. His dog viggo is great and got along with my dog very well. Would definitely use mark again.
Mark was an amazing sitter! I extremely recommend. His pup Viggo was the best sitter companion to my dog Renji. He is a calm energy truly. Mark and Viggo both really made this experience anxiety free. Mark provided many photos and quick responses. I will definitely be using him in the future as i think Renji has made a friend and had a great time.
About Mark G.
Communication
Dog skills
Safety, trust & environment
In the mornings, the first thing I do is feed the dogs — still in my PJs, usually before coffee — then it’s straight outside. Midday/afternoon I always try to get a walk or run in. I also like doing a little “brain work” with dogs: goofing off, practicing simple skills, and using snacks as rewards (with your OK). No two dogs are the same, and I try to cater to what each dog actually feels like doing that day. Some want to play and explore, some want structure and a job, and some just want to nap near people and be left in peace — all good. Viggo’s favorite is scent work — basically hide-and-seek for dogs. Not every dog takes to it, but I’ll always try, and Viggo usually helps show them the idea. I’ll have a dog smell an item, tuck them in the mud room for a minute, hide it, then release them to track it down. Some dogs find it in two minutes, some take 20 — either way, they’re proud of themselves. Evenings are dinner, feeding on your schedule, and winding down — everyone chilling together on or by the couch.
Home
Information Mark G. would like to know about your pet
Before the stay, it helps a lot to know the basics of your dog’s routine. Please let me know about any special needs (medical or behavioral) and I’ll do my best to accommodate. I also need your dog’s feeding schedule, treat rules, and any medication instructions. It’s great to have an emergency contact, plus the name and number of your preferred veterinarian. I do best with dogs that are reliably potty trained and non-aggressive toward people and other dogs. If your dog has quirks or triggers, just tell me up front — no judgment. The more I know, the smoother (and safer) the stay.
A typical day
There’s no such thing as a “typical day” at my house — it depends on who’s here and how many dogs are on the roster. Most of the time it’s just one or two guest dogs (plus Viggo), so it stays calm and manageable. Mornings: Breakfast happens immediately — usually while I’m still in pajamas and before coffee. Then it’s straight outside. Midday/afternoon: I take a break from work for a walk or run. After that it’s choose-your-own-adventure based on your dog’s vibe: yard time, couch time, supervised play, or following me around like a tiny furry manager. Bonus activities (optional, not daily): If a dog is into it, we’ll do a quick mind game or Viggo’s favorite — scent work/hide-and-seek. Some dogs are naturals, some look at me like, “Sir, I’m just here for snacks.” Evenings: Dinner, feeding on your schedule, then wind-down mode — everyone posted up on or near the couch like we’re watching a very serious documentary about squirrels. The main rule is simple: I tailor the day to the dog in front of me — their energy, personality, and comfort level.
Mark G.
Foster Powell, Portland, OR