The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever (commonly known as the Toller) is a medium-sized, athletic breed of dog that originated in Nova Scotia, Canada. True to its name, this lively and friendly breed was developed to lure waterfowl within shooting distance of hunters, making them superb companions for hunting as well as outdoor enthusiasts. Their unique tolling behavior involves running and fetching, resembling a fox, which captivates ducks enough for them to come close to the shore, where they are more easily hunted.
History
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a relatively young breed, with their history dating back to the early 1800s when they were developed by fishermen and hunters in Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia. These dogs were bred from a mix of breeds, including Retrievers, Setters, Spaniels, and a local water dog known as the Little River Duck Dog. The resulting breed possessed the desired qualities of retrieving, swimming, and tolling, making them valuable hunting partners.
Physical Characteristics
Tollers are medium-sized dogs with a sleek and athletic build. Their striking appearance is highlighted by their dense double coat that comes in shades of orange, red, and golden, with white on their chest, tail tip, and feet. They typically weigh between 30 to 50 pounds and stand 17 to 19 inches tall at the shoulder, making them well-proportioned and agile. Their eyes are typically dark brown or hazel, exuding intelligence and alertness.
Temperament
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is known for its exuberant personality, characterized by friendliness, enthusiasm, and eagerness to please. They are incredibly loyal and affectionate towards their family members and enjoy engaging in various activities with them, including fetching, running, and swimming. Tollers are sociable and usually get along well with children, other pets, and strangers, making them ideal family companions.
Training and Activity
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are highly intelligent dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. Their intelligence and eagerness to please, combined with their natural love of fetching and retrieving, make them trainable and well-suited for various canine sports and activities, such as agility, flyball, and dock diving. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are essential to maintain their physical and mental well-being.
Health and Care
Tollers are generally healthy and robust dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions, including hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. Responsible breeders strive to maintain the health of the breed by carefully selecting breeding stock and conducting appropriate health tests. With proper care and regular veterinary checkups, Tollers can live long and healthy lives, often reaching 10 to 12 years of age.
In summary, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, with its distinct tolling behavior and outgoing temperament, is a versatile breed that excels as both a hunting companion and a loving family pet. Their enthusiasm for life, loyalty, and eagerness to please make them treasured members of any household. Their ability to adapt to various activities and environments further enhances their appeal as cherished canine companions.
