The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever (NSDTR), or simply the Toller, is a spirited and intelligent breed known for its boundless enthusiasm and striking red coat. Often mistaken for a small Golden Retriever, this energetic dog was originally bred to lure and retrieve waterfowl, making it an excellent hunting and sporting companion.
Beyond the field, Tollers are affectionate, clever, and full of personality. Their playful nature and sharp minds mean they thrive in active homes where they get plenty of mental and physical stimulation. While their high energy may be overwhelming for some, their unwavering loyalty and eagerness to please make them a rewarding companion for the right owner.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Summary Table
| Characteristic | Detail |
| Breed Group | Sporting Group |
| Breed Purpose | Hunting, gundog, companion dog |
| Size | Small to Medium |
| Height | 17 to 21 inches (43 to 53 cm) |
| Weight | 35 to 50 pounds (16 to 23 kg) |
| Coat Type | Medium, double coat |
| Color | Red, golden, or orange with white markings |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Temperament | Friendly, affectionate, social |
| Energy Level | High |
| Exercise Needs | 30 minutes daily |
| Shedding | High, seasonal |
| Average Price | $1,500 to $3,000 |
| Trainability | Highly trainable, eager to please |
| Best For | Active families, individuals |
Origin of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has its roots in Canada, specifically in the province of Nova Scotia. This breed was developed in the 19th century to help hunters lure and retrieve waterfowl, particularly ducks. The unique “tolling” method involves the dog playing in the water, attracting ducks, and then retrieving them after they’ve been shot. It’s an instinctual skill that has made the Toller a valuable companion for hunters.
Though the breed was developed for hunting, it has also made its mark as an excellent family dog due to its friendly, affectionate nature. In fact, it’s known for forming strong bonds with its family members, making it a loyal and loving companion.
Appearance of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a small to medium-sized dog with a striking appearance. This breed has a well-proportioned, athletic build that reflects its working origins. Its coat is medium in length and dense, providing insulation and protection when in cold water.
One of the most notable features of the Toller is its thick, water-resistant double coat. The outer coat is quite straight, while the undercoat is dense and soft, helping the dog stay warm while retrieving in cold water. The coat color typically ranges from a rich red or golden to a light orange hue. The Toller also has white markings on its paws, chest, and tip of the tail, which give it a distinctive look.
In terms of facial features, the Toller has a friendly, expressive face with a broad, well-shaped head. Its eyes are almond-shaped and dark, exuding intelligence and attentiveness. The breed’s ears are medium-sized and covered with soft fur.
Size and Weight of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Toller is considered a small to medium-sized breed. Males are between 18 to 21 inches at the shoulder. The females are usually a bit smaller, ranging from 17 to 20 inches. They weigh between 35 to 50 pounds, with males generally being the larger of the two.
While the Toller’s size is not overwhelming, its energetic and athletic build makes it a dog that needs much space to roam and exercise. These dogs are well-suited to active owners who enjoy mostly outdoor activities.
Coat Color of the Toller
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has a very attractive coat that ranges from golden to deep red. These coats are often described as a beautiful shade of orange or copper, with subtle variations in hue. Many Tollers have white markings on their chest, paws, and tail tips, giving them an eye-catching look that stands out among other retrievers.
The coat is one of the breed’s defining features. It is thick and water-resistant, providing the dog with the protection it needs when swimming in chilly waters. The Toller’s coat color, combined with its expressive eyes and alert stance, makes it a striking and memorable breed.
Temperament of the Toller
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is usually friendly and affectionate in nature. It is a highly social dog that loves to be part of the family. Tollers are known for being eager to please, which makes them easy to train and willing to engage in various activities, including hunting, retrieving, and playing.
In addition to being energetic and intelligent, the Toller is also highly loyal. They form strong bonds with their family members and do well in households where they receive attention and affection.
Although Tollers are friendly, they can be reserved around strangers. They may bark to alert their family to the presence of newcomers, but they are not typically aggressive. Introducing Toller to early Socialization can help ensure they are well-adjusted and comfortable in different situations.
Exercise Needs of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
As a working dog, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has high exercise needs. These dogs have high energy levels and need regular activity of 30 minutes daily to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks, runs, and outdoor playtime are essential to keep them engaged and physically fit.
Tollers are also natural swimmers, and if you have access to a safe body of water, you can introduce swimming as an exercise option. These dogs love retrieving games, making them great companions for activities like fetch or playing in the water. The Toller needs enough physical and mental stimulation and can become bored and exhibit unwanted behaviors when they don’t get enough of it.
Grooming Requirements for the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
While the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever’s coat is water-resistant, it does require regular grooming to keep it healthy. The breed’s double coat sheds seasonally, so you should expect to do some extra brushing during shedding periods. Brushing a few times a week will help keep the coat looking its best and reduce shedding around the house.
It’s also important to keep the Toller’s ears clean and dry, as their floppy ears can trap moisture. Regular ear checks and cleaning can help prevent infections. Bathing should be done as needed, typically every 6 to 8 weeks, to maintain a clean, healthy coat.
Training and Socialization of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is an intelligent and eager-to-please dog, which makes training relatively easy. Positive reinforcement techniques like praise, treats, and play are good training techniques. They are quick learners, but they can also be independent, so consistency is key in training.
Tollers enjoy activities that challenge their minds, such as obedience training, agility, or scent work. They also thrive in social situations, so early socialization is important to ensure they are well-adjusted to different people, animals, and environments.
Health Considerations for the Toller
Like many purebred dogs, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is prone to certain health issues. Some of the common conditions in this breed include elbow and hip dysplasia, as well as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which causes vision loss.
Regular Vet visits coupled with a great diet can help manage the risk of these conditions. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that your Toller gets sufficient exercise to prevent obesity and joint problems.
Cost of Buying a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
When considering adding a Toller to your family, it’s important to understand the costs involved. The price of a Toller may vary depending on factors like the breeder’s reputation, the dog’s lineage, and the age of the dog. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000 for a well-bred puppy from a reputable breeder. This price covers initial vaccinations, health screenings, and registration with kennel clubs.
In addition to the initial cost of purchasing a Toller, there are other recurring expenses to consider. These may include food, grooming supplies, medical care, and training classes. While owning a Toller can be a financial commitment, the reward of having such a loving and energetic companion is well worth the investment.
You may be able to get a more affordable offer if you adopt from a shelter or even rescue organization. However, it’s essential to ensure the dog has received the appropriate care and socialization.
Reputable Breeders to Buy Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
If you’re considering purchasing a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, it’s important to find a reputable breeder. Look for breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs, conduct health screenings, and breed according to breed standards. A trustworthy breeder will also provide you with documentation of the puppy’s health history and can offer advice on training and care.
You can find reputable breeders by checking the American Kennel Club (AKC) website or by contacting breed-specific clubs, such as the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Club of America (NSDTRCA). These organizations can help guide you to breeders who place importance on producing healthy, well-socialized puppies.
The Toller vs. Border Collie
When comparing the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever (Toller) to the Border Collie, it’s important to consider both similarities and differences in their traits. Both breeds are highly intelligent and energetic, making them great choices for active owners who want a dog with a high drive for work and play. The Toller, however, is generally a bit smaller and has a more water-focused skill set, excelling in retrieving waterfowl, while the Border Collie is known for herding and agility.
Border Collie has an instinct to herd, and this can sometimes be more pronounced, leading to behaviors that require consistent training. On the other hand, the Toller’s playful, water-loving nature makes it an excellent choice for families who enjoy activities like swimming, boating, or hunting. While both breeds are excellent companions, potential owners should consider their lifestyle and how much time they can dedicate to providing mental and physical stimulation.
The Toller vs. Golden Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever (Toller) and the Golden Retriever share many similarities, making it easy to compare these two beloved breeds. Both dogs are friendly, intelligent, and eager to please, which makes them great family pets. However, while Golden Retrievers are generally known for their calm, laid-back demeanor, the Toller has a more energetic and active personality.
Golden Retrievers are excellent companions for families and excel in activities like therapy and service work, whereas the Toller thrives in more physically demanding environments, excelling in waterfowl hunting and retrieving. The Toller’s natural swimming ability and love for water often make it a better fit for active families who enjoy outdoor activities like boating and hiking.
Is the Toller the Right Dog for You?
This breed is a wonderful addition to families with active routines and high energy levels to meet their exercise needs. If you’re looking for a playful, loyal, and intelligent companion who loves to swim and retrieve, this breed may be the perfect fit.
Tollers are also great for those who enjoy training and activities like obedience, agility, or hunting. However, keep in mind that they need plenty of attention and stimulation to keep them happy.
If you’re prepared for the commitment that comes with owning a high-energy, affectionate dog, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever could be your ideal companion.