Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: The Ultimate Guide

List of Contents

Introduction

If you’re looking for a loyal, friendly, and active dog breed, consider the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. This breed is known for its unique hunting skills and playful nature. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, from its history to its health, personality, and more.

Breed Characteristics of Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, often called Toller for short, is a medium-sized breed that originated in Nova Scotia, Canada. Tollers are known for their unique hunting technique, where they lure ducks and other game birds towards hunters by playfully jumping and retrieving sticks. This breed typically weighs between 37 to 51 pounds and stands at 17 to 21 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a double coat that is thick and water-resistant, which helps protect them from cold water during hunting.

Tollers come in a variety of colors, including shades of red, orange, and gold. They have a distinctive white chest, feet, and tail tip, which adds to their charming appearance. Their webbed feet make them excellent swimmers, and they are often used for waterfowl hunting. Tollers are highly energetic and require regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy.

Highlights of Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Here are some highlights of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever:

Intelligent and trainable
Active and energetic
Friendly and affectionate
Excellent swimmers
Skilled hunters

History of Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever was developed in the early 19th century in Nova Scotia, Canada. The breed was originally created to lure and retrieve waterfowl for hunters. Tollers were bred to have a friendly and playful demeanor, which helped them attract ducks towards the hunters. The breed was officially recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club in 1945 and by the American Kennel Club in 2003.

Size of Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a medium-sized breed. Males typically weigh between 45 to 51 pounds and stand at 19 to 21 inches tall at the shoulder. Females are slightly smaller, weighing between 37 to 45 pounds and standing at 17 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder. Tollers have a muscular build and a thick, water-resistant coat.

Personality of Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Tollers are known for their friendly and playful personality. They are highly social dogs and enjoy spending time with their family and other dogs. Tollers are intelligent and trainable, making them excellent candidates for obedience training and agility competitions. They are also skilled hunters and have a strong instinct to retrieve. Tollers require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

How to Keep Health of Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?

To keep your Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever healthy, it’s important to provide them with regular exercise, a nutritious diet, and regular veterinary care. Tollers are prone to certain health conditions, including hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and autoimmune diseases. It’s important to work with a reputable breeder and schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian to catch any potential health issues early on.

How to Care for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?

To care for your Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, you’ll need to provide them with regular exercise, mental stimulation, and grooming. Tollers require daily exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They also enjoy playing fetch and swimming. Tollers have a thick, water-resistant coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles. It’s also important to trim their nails regularly and clean their ears to prevent infections.

Feed for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

To keep your Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever healthy, it’s important to feed them a nutritious and balanced diet. Tollers require a high-quality dog food that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It’s also important to monitor their weight and adjust their diet as needed to prevent obesity.

Coat Color and Grooming for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Tollers come in a variety of colors, including shades of red, orange, and gold. They have a distinctive white chest, feet, and tail tip. Tollers have a thick, water-resistant coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles. They shed seasonally, which requires extra grooming during those times. It’s important to brush your Toller’s coat regularly and provide them with regular baths to keep them clean and healthy.

Conclusion

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a unique and charming dog breed that makes an excellent companion for active families. Tollers are highly intelligent, trainable, and friendly, making them a great choice for those who enjoy outdoor activities and training. With proper care and attention, your Toller can live a happy and healthy life.