Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever History

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, also known as the Nova or NSDTR, is a breed of gundog developed in Nova Scotia, Canada. The origin of the name “Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever” is from the practice of tolling the duck call, used by hunters to lure in ducks. The breed was designed to hunt waterfowl, such as woodcock and snipe, and to toll and retrieve on land. The dogs are brave, intelligent, and biddable. They are expected to be easy to train and quick to learn. The temperament of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is described as calm, friendly, and eager to please. The coat of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is long and rough. This, despite its name, is not a retriever that hunts water fowl. The term “Toller” refers to the sound the dogs make when they sense a duck. The face is black, the eyes are yellow, the legs are white, and the feet are webbed. The weight of an adult male and female is 40 and 50 pounds respectively. The height of a male and female is 23–26 inches. The lifespan of a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is 12–14 years. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers were developed in the 18th century, before the American Revolution, within the Province of Nova Scotia. They were first recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club in 1917.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Physical Characteristics

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a medium-sized breed that typically stands between 20 and 23.5 inches tall at the shoulders and weighs between 45 and 75 pounds. They have an athletic build with a medium length, straight, silky, waterproof, colored, and shed-free double coat. They have an alert, intelligent, and friendly temperament. Their thick, water-repellent, wavy, and curly hair forms cords and lines on the ears, legs, and tail. Their tail is carried high and down. The hair on their muzzle is moderately long and curls over the nose. Their triangular shaped eyes have expressive almond shape and the color is dark brown. Their nose is black. Their teeth meet in a scissors bite.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Health

Description of breed health.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Temperament and Behaviour

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is an energetic and fun-loving dog. They are friendly and sociable, but protective of their family. They are highly intelligent, but independent, and can sometimes be stubborn. They require lots of exercise, but are easy to train.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Activity Requirements

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, or “Toller,” is a talented hunting dog that is known for being smart, loyal, and energetic. The Toller was originally bred to retrieve waterfowl, but today they are more often kept as family companions. The Toller is not a highly active breed, but they do enjoy regular walks. They do require plenty of mental stimulation, however. A puzzle toy or a game of fetch can help them stay happy. The Toller is a medium-sized, athletic dog. They have medium-length, thick coats that shed heavily. This makes them better suited for homes with yards or people who aren’t bothered by a bit of extra fur.

Kennel Club Recognition