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Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

by Petside Team

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is the smallest of the retrievers, they are ready for action and desire a job or activity to do.

Although its exact origins are not known, the breed as we know it, was developed in the community of Little River Harbor in Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia around the beginning of the 20th century. The breed was developed to toll, or lure, and retrieve water fowl. The dog plays, jumps and frolics near the shore line in front of a flock of ducks, occasionally disappearing from sight. The dog's friendly and playful actions arouse curiosity of the ducks and they swim closer to investigate. This lures them to be within gunshot of the hunter. The Toller then retrieves the bird from the water.

The Toller is energetic, friendly, active and intelligent. They excel at field trials, agility and obedience. The Toller is affectionate and loving with family members and is good and patient with small children. Provide your Toller with plenty of exercise and he will be a happy pet.

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a natural-looking breed and does not require a lot of grooming. The Toller was bred to retrieve from icy waters and must have a water-repellent double coast of medium length and softness. An occasional brushing and a bath will keep your Toller's coat looking great.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: The Toller is a medium sized, powerful, compact, balanced dog and is the smallest of the retrievers. The Toller's attitude and bearing suggest strength with a high degree of agility. He is alert, determined, and quick, with a keen desire to work and please.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Height -- males, 18-21 inches (ideal is 19 inches.) Females, 17-20 inches (ideal is 18 inches.) The dog's length should be slightly longer than height, but should not give the impression of a long back.

Fun Facts

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Club (USA) feels that all Tollers should posses innate ability to spring into action at the slightest indication that retrieving is required. Toller owners claim that their dogs have a slightly sad or worried expression when they are not working.

The Toller was declared the Provincial Dog of Nova Scotia in 1995.

Check out the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever photos >>

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The American Kennel Club

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Quick Facts

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is energetic, friendly, active and intelligent. The Toller is ready for action and desires a job or activity to do.
Size:Medium
Origin:Nova Scotia, Canada
Color:Any shade of red, ranging from golden red through dark coppery red, with lighter featherings on the underside of the tail and body. The tip of the tail, feet, chest and blaze usually have a white marking.