Meglyn Retrievers

Training is offered in three levels: Novice (4-month average program for untrained dogs, includes obedience, force fetching, gunfire conditioning, marked retrieves), Intermediate (for dogs with basic training, focuses on blind retrieves with whistle and hand signals), and Advanced (complex multiple retrieves for AKC Master Hunter and HRC Finished levels). Puppies 5–6 months and older are accepted; younger pups may receive brief socialization stays. Training is immersive and conducted at the facility with limited client interaction during the program. Owner-handled training is available for tune-ups.

Pricing Summary

Monthly training rate includes kenneling, training, and bird exposure (pigeons, live and dead ducks). Monthly heartworm, flea and tick treatment, and veterinary services are not included. Pricing is not publicly listed; clients are expected to contact directly for rates. One client reported paying $2,800 for a 4-month program.

Policies

No formal cancellation or rescheduling policy is published. Clients are expected to commit to a minimum 4-month training program. One client reported being told their dog was “not ready” only the day before pickup after being assured weekly it was progressing well. No refund policy is stated.

Meglyn Retrievers is a professional dog training kennel near Columbus, Ohio, founded by Don Smith, who has over 47 years of experience training retrievers and over 90 years of combined hunting dog training experience dating back to 1970. The business specializes in all-breed obedience, gun dog, and hunt test training for Labrador Retrievers, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, and other retriever breeds. Training is offered in an intensive board-and-train format at their private facility, with programs ranging from novice to advanced levels, including marked and blind retrieves, gunfire conditioning, force fetching, and steadiness to wing and shot. Dogs are trained using live birds and realistic field conditions. Don Smith also provides hunt test handling services and offers brief training stays for socialization and puppy foundation work. The facility includes indoor training areas and outdoor fields with mechanical bird slings. Clients can visit weekly and receive updates, though video and photo updates are not guaranteed. The business also occasionally offers puppies for sale.

Don Smith actively competes in AKC and HRC hunt tests and has trained numerous title-qualifying dogs. He is affiliated with the Ohio Valley Retriever Club, Golden Retriever Club of Columbus, and Ducks Unlimited. Training is limited to a small number of clients annually to ensure individual attention.

While most clients report excellent results and long-term support from Don, some have expressed dissatisfaction with communication, lack of transparency during training, and perceived neglect of their dog’s progress.

Meglyn Retrievers also operates under the name Sunnyside Training Center for additional program information.

Accomplishments

Don Smith has trained and handled over 50 AKC and HRC title-qualifying dogs since 2003, including multiple Senior Hunters, Master Hunters, and Junior Hunters. Notable dogs include Meglyn’s Lionheart MH, Meglyn’s Maramaxx Daisycutter MH, and Senior Hunters titled as young as 18 months. He has competed in and qualified dogs in both AKC and HRC hunt tests annually since 2003, with titles documented from 2006 through 2021. He is a member of the Tri-Tronics Influentials Club and served as Ohio State Chairman for Ducks Unlimited (1999–2001).

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients are encouraged to contact Meglyn Retrievers via phone or email to discuss training needs. Don Smith invites interested parties to visit the facility for a tour and consultation. Dogs must be 5–6 months or older for full boarding programs; younger pups may be considered for short-term socialization stays. A preliminary evaluation determines program placement.