Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever (or Toller) originated in Nova Scotia in the early 1800s. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever breed tolls (or lures) ducks within shooting range of the hunter by playing along the shore. Once the ducks have been shot, the dog then retrieves the birds.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers stand between 17 and 21 inches tall and weigh 40 to 55 pounds. The head is wedge-shaped, the eyes are almond-shaped, and the eye color either blends in with the coat or is dark. The ears are dropped and frame the face. The body is slightly longer than tall, and the chest is deep. The tail reaches the hock. The coat is double, with a waterresistant outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat. The color of the coat is any shade of red. The coat needs twice weekly brushing for most of the year, but during the spring and fall shedding seasons, daily brushing is needed.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a very active, energetic dog breed which needs vigorous daily exercise. This dog should go for a long run, play fetch, train on the agility course, go swimming, or play flyball. A bored Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever who does not get enough exercise will get into trouble. Although often mistakenly identified as a small Golden Retriever, the Toller is mentally and physically more active than a Golden.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is is a very intelligent breed that needs to learn household rules early; without the guidance of training and an owner who is willing to be a leader, a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever will take over the household. Training should be fun yet firm, continue into adulthood, and challenge the dog. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers need a job to do, such as obedience training, learning tricks, or bringing in the newspaper each morning.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever needs an actively involved, experienced owner who enjoys training and will keep this intelligent dog busy. Tollers are great with children, although puppies can be rowdy. They are normally good with smaller pets. Health concerns include hip dysplasia, eye defects, and thyroid disease.