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Breed Characteristics
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Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever
| Other Names | Yarmouth Toller, Tolling Retriever, Little Red Duck Dog, Little River Duck Dog |
| Nicknames | Toller, Scotty, Novie |
| Country of Origin | Canada |
| Weight | 37 - 51 lbs. (17 - 23 kg) |
| Height (at withers) | 17 - 21 in. (43 - 53 cm) |
| Coat | The Toller was bred to retrieve from icy waters and must have a water-repellent double coat of medium length and softness, and a soft dense undercoat. The coat may have a slight wave on the back, but is otherwise straight. Some winter coats may form a long loose curl at the throat. Featherings are soft and moderate in length. The hair on the muzzle is short and fine. Seasonal shedding is to be expected. |
| Colour | Shades of red and orange uniform over the body. White markings on the feet, face, chest and the tip of the tail are acceptable. |
| Litter Size | 4 - 6 puppies |
| Life Span | 13 - 16 years |
| Origin & History | The breed was developed in the community of Little River Harbour in Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia, around the beginning of the 19th century to toll waterfowl and as an all purpose hunting dog. The breed was originally known as the Little River Duck Dog or the Yarmouth Toller. Its exact origins are not known but it appears that some possibly spaniel and setter Pointer-type dogs, retriever-type dogs, and rabbit hounds. Farm collies also went into the mix as many became herding dogs as well as hunting dogs and family pets. The Toller was officially admitted to the Canadian Kennel Club in 1945. Declared the provincial dog of Nova Scotia in 1995, the breed gained national recognition in 1980, when two Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers were awarded Best in Show at championship events that included many breeds. On June 11, 2001, it was approved for admission into the Miscellaneous Class of the American Kennel Club and was granted full recognition into the Sporting Group on July 1, 2003. |
| Personality | Sensible and very devoted to its family. These dogs are intelligent, easy to obedience train and good with children. They make great companion dogs as long as they get enough exercise to fulfill their energetic needs. Tollers may be a bit more reserved around strangers than the Golden Retriever; socialize them well. The same charming way this water dog has with his game, he demonstrates with his owner. He is hard-working and clever, and enjoys being with his master. His expression may seem low-spirited, but once in the hunt he is the happy hunter. The Toller's strong retrieving desire and playfulness are natural traits, both necessary for his tolling ability. Tolling (luring) is a natural trait (like pointing) and cannot be taught. They have an intense natural excitement about their duty. Young dogs need to practice; training sessions involve establishing a close relationship and having children throw things for them to retrieve. Some owners say the Toller is a retrieving fool. They love retrieving games! These are excellent family pets which get on well with other dogs and animals. They are very patient with children. They bark when there is danger but that is likely to be all. They need owners who know how to properly communicate authority over them. |
Care Requirements
| Health | The Toller is essentially a robust breed that can share many of the same common complaints as any other dog, such as hip dysplasia or Heartworms. However, regular vet checkups can help to lessen or keep these problems at bay. There are occasionally serious Health conditions found within the breed that include: Thyroid-poor overall Health, hair condition and growth. PRA-progressive retinal atrophy that will lead to increasing levels of blindness for the dog. Hip Dysplasia-a gradual degeneration of the hip joint, resulting in pain and stiffness. Addisons Disease-lack of production of adrenal hormones that causes Vomiting, lethargy and heart problems and possible death. |
| Grooming | The water-repellent, double coat of the Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever should be combed and brushed with a firm bristle brush, paying particular attention to the dense undercoat. Dry shampoo regularly, but bathe only when necessary, for it removes the natural oils in the skin which make it naturally water resistant. This breed is an average shedder. |
| Exercise | These high-energy dogs need a lot of physical exercise. They need to be taken on a brisk, long, daily walk or jog. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. In addition, they will enjoy it if you throw a ball or stick for them to retrieve. |
| Other Considerations | The Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. This breed does well in cold climates. Tollers do not have an aggressive bark. Some have a unique sounding bark known as the "Toller scream", a high-pitched, howl-like sound which is often referred to as their "singing". They do not use this in violent situations, however; for these they have a harsh growl. The Toller scream is used to express excitement. Tollers have webbed feet. |
