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The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, often referred to as the “Toller,” is an energetic, intelligent, and devoted medium-sized dog originally bred for hunting waterfowl. With its striking red coat, playful nature, and strong work ethic, the Toller is an excellent choice for active owners who enjoy spending time outdoors.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever originated in the province of Nova Scotia in eastern Canada, where it was developed in the early 19th century as a hunting dog for waterfowl. The breed was specifically created to use a unique hunting technique called “tolling,” which involves luring ducks through playful behavior along the water’s edge. This method was inspired by foxes, whose frolicking movements would arouse the curiosity of ducks. The Toller is the result of crossbreeding various dogs, including retrievers, spaniels, and possibly even collies. It was mainly kept by hunters and farmers who appreciated the breed’s versatility, eagerness to work, and ruggedness in the harsh Canadian landscape. In 1945, the breed was officially recognized in Canada as the “Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever,” and since then, it has made its way into the hearts of hunters and active families around the world.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a lively and devoted dog with an intelligent and energetic personality. Deeply bonded to its family, it has an enthusiastic, playful nature and is usually affectionate without being overly demanding. The breed is known for its sensitivity, which means it thrives best with positive and consistent training methods. Thanks to its high intelligence, the Toller is highly trainable, although it can be a bit headstrong when bored or not sufficiently challenged. The Toller is alert and curious, making it not only a capable working dog but also a vigilant household companion. It doesn’t bark excessively but will make its voice heard when it senses something important. With its social and active nature, it needs plenty of physical exercise, mental stimulation, and attention from its family to truly flourish.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has an elegant and athletic appearance, characterized by its medium-sized, well-balanced build. Its coat is dense, water-repellent, and comes in various shades from golden-orange to red, with a lighter undercoat. The fur is of medium length and has a slight wave. It has a powerful, straight back and a tail that is proudly carried in a gentle arch over the back. Its head is well-proportioned with an expressive, friendly expression. The eyes are bright and often amber in color, contributing to its intelligent and energetic appearance. The ears are medium-sized, set high, and lightly feathered. Its strong legs and smooth movements make it an excellent hunter, while its playful and enthusiastic temperament make it a beloved companion dog. The breed has a charming appearance that reflects its lively and friendly personality.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever needs daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. It enjoys working with its owner and typically requires about 1 to 1.5 hours of physical activity per day. This active breed loves to run, swim, and play, so it’s important to provide both physical and mental stimulation. In addition to daily walks, play sessions, fetch training, puzzle games, and other activities can help release its energy in a positive way. As natural working dogs, they benefit from a varied exercise routine that includes both intense and relaxed moments.
Grooming a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever requires regular attention, especially due to its dense, water-repellent double coat. Weekly brushing helps remove loose hairs and prevent matting, particularly during shedding seasons. Baths are generally only necessary when the dog is truly dirty, as frequent washing can damage the coat’s natural oils. After swimming, it’s important to dry and clean the ears thoroughly to prevent infections. It’s also advisable to check the nails monthly and brush the teeth regularly. Adequate daily exercise, such as long walks, retrieving games, and active play, is essential to keep the dog physically and mentally balanced. With a consistent grooming routine, the Toller can stay healthy, energetic, and in peak condition for many years.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is generally a healthy breed, but like many purebred dogs, it can be prone to certain hereditary conditions. One of the most common issues is hip dysplasia, a joint disorder that can lead to pain and mobility problems. Eye diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts can also occur, which may lead to reduced vision or even blindness. Tollers also have an increased sensitivity to autoimmune diseases, including Addison’s disease (adrenal insufficiency) and autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA). Some lines are known to have hereditary epilepsy, as well as ear infections due to their hanging ears. Regular vet checkups and health screenings or DNA tests through a reputable breeder are essential for identifying and managing these conditions early.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has a distinctive look and personality, but there are other breeds with similar traits or appearances:
When purchasing a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, it’s important to carefully consider where your puppy is coming from. This energetic and intelligent breed needs a solid start in life, and that begins with a breeder who is responsible and dedicated. Look for a breeder who specializes in the breed and pays close attention to the health, temperament, and welfare of both the mother and the pups. A good breeder will test the parent dogs for hereditary diseases and raise the puppies in a stable, loving environment.
The price of a Toller puppy can vary depending on factors such as the pedigree of the parents, the level of care provided, and the quality of the upbringing. A higher price often reflects the investment in health testing, socialization, and nutrition. Opting for the lowest price can mean compromises have been made in areas that affect your future dog’s health and behavior.
If you want to bring home a strong and well-balanced puppy, it’s worth investing in a trustworthy breeder. Take your time to get acquainted, ask questions about health screenings and the pups’ environment, and don’t hesitate to be critical this is a long-term commitment.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a lively and sensitive dog with a strong hunting instinct and a deep need for connection with its family. It is intelligent, devoted, and always up for action—which also means it isn’t the right fit for just any household. Thinking about bringing a Toller into your home? Then it’s important to understand what this breed needs from its owner.
The Toller thrives with someone who:
This breed does best in an environment where it can actively participate—both mentally and physically—and where it is offered variety and ongoing challenges.
While the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is friendly and eager to learn, its high energy and sensitivity can be a bit overwhelming for first-time dog owners. It requires an owner who can offer structure and clarity without being harsh, and who knows how to guide its intelligence in the right direction.
If you already have experience with dogs—or are willing to thoroughly educate yourself in training and behavior—you may find in the Toller a fantastic, loyal companion. Its playful spirit, strong drive to work, and deep bond with its family make it a dog that truly shines in the hands of the right owner.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is best suited for owners with some experience and an active lifestyle, provided they are ready to invest time and attention into its upbringing, exercise, and mental enrichment.
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