Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, often affectionately called the “Toller,” is a uniquely Canadian breed developed in the Little River Harbour area of Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia, in the early 19th century. Their primary and highly specialized purpose was “tolling” – a hunting method where the dog’s playful actions along the shoreline, often involving chasing a stick or ball thrown by the hunter, would lure curious ducks and geese within gunshot range. The word “tollen” is Middle English for “to lure” or “to entice.” Once the waterfowl were shot, the Toller would then act as a capable retriever, bringing the birds back from land or water.

The exact ancestry of the Toller is not precisely documented, but it is believed to have been developed from crosses of various European retrieving and spaniel breeds brought by settlers, possibly including the St. John’s Water Dog, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Golden Retriever, Irish Setter, and various spaniel types like the Cocker Spaniel or Brittany. Hunters in Nova Scotia selectively bred for dogs with the reddish color (resembling a fox, which also tolls ducks), playful luring behavior, intelligence, and strong retrieving instincts. The breed was officially recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club in 1945 and by the American Kennel Club in 2003. They are prized for their unique hunting style and energetic, intelligent nature.

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is known for its high intelligence, playful energy, and determined nature. They are typically very affectionate and form strong, loyal bonds with their families, thriving on human companionship and interaction. Tollers are alert and eager to please, which, combined with their intelligence, makes them highly trainable. They possess a good deal of stamina and a strong work ethic, always ready for an activity or a “job” to do. Their playful and often comical antics make them engaging companions.

While friendly and loving with their family, Tollers can be somewhat reserved or wary of strangers, a trait that makes them good watchdogs. Early and consistent socialization is important to build their confidence and ensure they are well-adjusted in various situations. They are generally good with children if raised with them and if children are taught to be respectful. Tollers can get along with other dogs, but their retrieving instincts might lead them to be possessive of toys. They are known for a characteristic high-pitched scream or “Toller yodel” when excited or anticipating activity, which can be surprising to those unfamiliar with the breed.

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has a medium-length, water-repellent double coat. The outer coat is soft and can be straight or slightly wavy, while the undercoat is dense and soft, providing excellent insulation for working in cold water. They have moderate feathering on the ears, chest, belly, back of the legs, and tail. Their coat color is various shades of red or orange, often with white markings on the chest, feet, tip of the tail, and sometimes a blaze on the face.

Grooming needs are moderate. They are average shedders year-round, with heavier seasonal sheds. Regular weekly brushing with a pin brush or slicker brush, along with a comb for the feathered areas, is usually sufficient to remove loose dead hair, prevent tangles, and keep the coat healthy. More frequent brushing will be beneficial during shedding seasons. Baths should be given as needed. Their ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent infections, especially after swimming. Routine nail trims and dental care are also important.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are high-energy, athletic, and intelligent dogs that require a significant amount of vigorous daily exercise and mental stimulation to thrive. They were bred for active work and possess considerable stamina and drive. This is not a breed suited for a sedentary lifestyle; they need a consistent outlet for their energy.

Aim for at least one to two hours of robust and purposeful activity per day. Excellent exercise options for a Toller include:

• Swimming, which most Tollers absolutely love and excel at, given their heritage.
• Long, brisk walks, jogging, running, or hiking with their owner.
• Intense games of fetch or retrieving with balls or dummies, both on land and in water.
• Off-leash play in a large, securely fenced area.
• Canine sports: Tollers are top competitors in activities like hunt tests, retrieving trials, dock diving, agility, obedience, flyball, and tracking.

Without a sufficient outlet for their energy and intelligence, Tollers can become bored, frustrated, and may develop destructive behaviors or excessive barking. They are happiest and best-behaved when they have a “job” to do and are an active part of an energetic family.

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is generally a healthy breed, but like all purebred dogs, they can be susceptible to certain genetic health conditions. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for these issues. Potential health concerns include:

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): An inherited eye condition that can lead to blindness. DNA testing is available and crucial for breeding stock (specifically prcd-PRA).
• Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA):** Another inherited eye condition. DNA testing is available.
• Hip Dysplasia: A malformation of the hip joint. Elbow dysplasia can also occur.
• Autoimmune Thyroiditis (leading to Hypothyroidism):** An autoimmune condition affecting the thyroid gland.
• Addison’s Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism):** A disorder of the adrenal glands.
• Degenerative Myelopathy (DM):** A progressive disease of the spinal cord. DNA testing is available.
• Cleft Palate:** A congenital condition.
• Juvenile Addison’s Disease (JADD):** A specific form affecting young Tollers. DNA testing is available.