Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Developed in Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia in the early 20th century, Tollers were crafted from small retrievers, spaniels, and likely farm collie/spitz types to imitate the antics of foxes that fascinate waterfowl. Hunters used the dog’s quick, playful motion along the shoreline to draw curious ducks within range—then relied on the Toller’s cold-water courage and soft mouth to retrieve. Recognized long ago by the CKC and by the AKC (2003), Tollers today excel in field work, obedience, agility, and as keen adventure companions.

‍

A medium, powerful retriever with a weatherproof coat and vivid expression.

• Weight: Males ~45–51 lb (20–23 kg); females ~35–42 lb (16–19 kg)
• Height: Males 18–21 in; females 17–20 in
• Coat Type: Medium-length double coat, water-repellent with soft dense undercoat; moderate feathering
• Coat Colours: Any shade of red to orange, often with white markings on chest, feet, blaze, and/or tail tip (not required)
• Distinctive Traits: Fox-like head and ear set, amber to brown eyes, nose pigment black or liver to harmonize with coat, powerful webbed feet, lively “tolling” gait

‍

Low trimming, steady maintenance—especially during seasonal sheds and after swims.

• Brushing: 2×/week; daily during spring/fall coat blow (line-brush to the skin)
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks or after heavy swimming; rinse lake/sea water out of coat
• De-shedding Focus: Pants/breeches, chest, behind ears, tail
• Ears: Clean/dry weekly (water dogs are prone to moisture-related infections)
• Nails/Teeth: Trim nails every 3–4 weeks; brush teeth 2–3×/week
• Trims: Light tidy of feet/feathers; do not shave the double coat (reduces insulation/water-shedding)
• Shedding: Moderate year-round; heavy seasonally

‍

A high-drive retriever that thrives on purposeful work.

• Daily Exercise: 60–90 minutes (include aerobic sessions + training)
• Best Activities: Retrieves on land/water, dock diving, swimming, hiking, canicross, agility, obedience/field drills, nose work
• Suitability: Apartments/condos possible with robust exercise and mental work; happiest with regular access to water and trails

‍

Eager, clever, and sensitive—keep training upbeat and structured.

• Method: Positive reinforcement; short, varied sessions with toys/food retrieves
• Focus Areas: Impulse control (excitement around birds/water), reliable recall, calm “place/settle,” steadiness to throw/shot
• Sound Sensitivity: Introduce gunfire/novel sounds gradually and positively
• Vocalizing: Some Tollers have an excited “Toller scream”—teach quiet and reinforce calm arousal states

‍

Fuel the athlete; keep lean for joints and endurance.

• Food Type: High-quality performance kibble or balanced fresh diet for active medium breeds
• Daily Quantity: ~2–3 cups total, split into two meals (adjust to workload/season)
• Add-Ons: Omega-3s (EPA/DHA) for skin/coat and recovery; joint support for heavy sport use
• Pro Tips: Avoid intense exercise 60–90 minutes before/after meals; use measured portions and training treats from the daily ration

‍

Select for proven health testing, stable temperament, and working aptitude.

• Breeders: Choose CKC-affiliated preservation breeders who provide orthopedic, eye, and DNA results; ask about field/obedience titles and water exposure in puppies
• Adoption: Retriever/sport-dog rescues and Toller breed clubs’ rehoming programs
• Canadian Resources: Canadian Kennel Club breeder directory; Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Club of Canada; provincial retriever/field and agility clubs (ON/NS/BC/QC)

‍

Generally robust, with a few breed-noted issues to screen for.

• Orthopedic: Hip and elbow dysplasia
• Eyes: PRA (DNA tests available), cataracts—annual ophthalmologist exams recommended
• Immune-Mediated Tendencies: Autoimmune thyroiditis, immune-mediated polyarthritis (IMPA), and Addison’s disease occur in the breed (some DNA/marker tests exist—ask breeders)
• Other: Ear infections (swimmers), allergies/skin hot spots
• Life Expectancy: 12–14 years
• Recommended Testing (breeders): Hips/elbows (OFA/FCI), CAER eye exams, applicable DNA screens (e.g., PRA, JADD/Addison’s markers), thyroid panel; discuss family history of immune conditions

‍

Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers good apartment dogs?
Yes—if you provide 60–90 minutes of daily exercise, training, and enrichment.

Do Tollers shed a lot?
They shed seasonally and moderately year-round; daily brushing helps during coat blows.

Are Tollers hypoallergenic?
No. They have a double coat and are not hypoallergenic.

How much exercise does a Toller need?
Plan for 60–90 minutes daily with retrieves, swimming, or sport training.

What is “tolling”?
Playful, fox-like movement along shorelines that lures ducks closer—then the dog switches to retrieving.

Are Tollers good with kids and other pets?
Generally excellent with proper socialization; supervise around small pets and teach calm greetings (they’re enthusiastic).

Do Tollers bark or make the “Toller scream”?
Some vocalize when excited. Teach a solid quiet cue and reinforce calm behaviour.

Toller vs Golden Retriever—what’s different?
Tollers are smaller, more intense, and often higher in drive; Goldens are larger and generally easier-going. Meet lines to compare.

‍