Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Updated December 2, 2025
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a medium-sized gundog bred to lure and retrieve waterfowl. Intelligent, eager to please, and affectionate, this breed is a superb companion for active families. They are celebrated for their playful spirit, endurance, and striking red coat.
Intelligent, Affectionate, Energetic, Eager to Please, Playful
37-51 pounds
17-21 inches
12-14 years
Various shades of red, Golden red, Dark copper red
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a medium-sized gundog bred to lure and retrieve waterfowl. Intelligent, eager to please, and affectionate, this breed is a superb companion for active families. They are celebrated for their playful spirit, endurance, and striking red coat.
What Makes Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers Special
Often described as a little fox in dog's clothing, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a compact, powerful, and agile dog with a zest for life. They possess a unique combination of intelligence, affection, and relentless energy.
Tollers are thinkers and problem-solvers, always eager for a task or a game. Their loving nature makes them devoted companions, but their high energy and intelligence require an owner who can provide leadership and an active lifestyle.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever History & Origin
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever was developed in the early 19th century in the community of Little River Harbour in Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia, Canada. The breed's unique 'tolling' method—a playful dancing and splashing action at the water's edge—lures curious waterfowl within the hunter's range.
The breed was developed by crossing various retrievers, spaniels, and possibly collie-type dogs to create a small, agile, and intelligent hunting partner.
Originally known as the Little River Duck Dog or Yarmouth Toller, the breed was officially recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club in 1945.
The Toller gained international recognition more recently and was declared the official provincial dog of Nova Scotia in 1995.
The cost for a Toller puppy from a reputable breeder can range from $1,500 to $3,500, reflecting their relative rarity and the extensive health screening responsible breeders undertake.
Adoption is another option, though finding a Toller in a general shelter is uncommon. Prospective owners should look for breed-specific rescue groups to find a Toller in need of a new home.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Appearance
The Toller's appearance is striking, often mistaken for a small Golden Retriever but with a more fox-like look. Their coat is a stunning shade of red or orange, often with white markings.
They have an alert and lively expression, which can turn to one of intense concentration when they are working or playing. Their constantly moving, well-feathered tail is a barometer of their happy and energetic mood.
Physical Features
Ears
The Toller's ears are triangular and medium in size, set high and well back on the skull, framing their expressive face.
Eyes
Their almond-shaped eyes are medium-sized and convey a look of intelligence and friendliness. Eye color complements the coat, ranging from amber to dark brown.
Nose
The nose color can be black, liver, or flesh-colored, blending with the coat. Pigment on the nose, lips, and eye rims should match.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
Tollers possess a medium-length double coat. The topcoat is water-resistant, protecting them from icy waters, with a soft, dense undercoat for insulation. Feathering is present on the throat, behind the ears, and on the back of the thighs.
Coat Color
The coat color is any shade of red, from a golden red to a deep coppery hue. White markings are common and permissible on the tip of the tail, feet, chest, and as a blaze on the face.
Tail
The tail is lush and feathered, following the natural curve of the body and held high with excitement when the dog is active.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Temperament
Tollers are whip-smart and thrive on having a job to do. Their intelligence, combined with a strong desire to please, makes them highly trainable, but they can also use their smarts to outwit their owners.
This breed is incredibly affectionate and forms strong bonds with its family. They are known for being patient and loving with children, making them excellent family companions for active households.
A defining characteristic of the Toller is its boundless energy. They require significant physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom, which can lead to undesirable behaviors like the infamous 'Toller scream'—a high-pitched bark of excitement.
While devoted to their families, Tollers can be reserved or wary around strangers. Early and consistent socialization is key to helping them become well-rounded and confident in new situations.
Their playful, almost puppy-like demeanor persists into adulthood. Tollers love games, especially fetching and swimming, and their retrieving instincts are powerful. They are happiest when they are active and involved in family activities.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Tollers are a generally healthy breed with a life expectancy of 12-14 years. However, like all purebreds, they are prone to certain genetic health conditions. Responsible breeders screen their stock for these issues.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and purchasing from a reputable breeder who performs health clearances.
How to Care for a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is an intelligent and high-energy breed that requires a significant commitment to exercise, training, and grooming. While they are loving and adaptable, they are not low-maintenance pets and thrive in active homes that can meet their needs.
Grooming
Tollers have a medium-length, water-repellent double coat that requires regular grooming to stay in good condition. They are seasonal shedders and will lose their undercoat in the spring and fall.
Brushing is recommended at least once a week to remove loose hair and prevent matting, especially in the finer hair behind the ears and on the feathering. Daily brushing will be necessary during heavy shedding periods.
Because of their love for water, it's important to dry their ears thoroughly after swimming to prevent ear infections.
Bathing should be done as needed. Over-bathing can strip the natural oils from their water-resistant coat. Regular nail trims and dental care are also essential for their overall health.
Training
Tollers are highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them a joy to train. They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques using treats, praise, and toys.
Training sessions should be kept fun, engaging, and relatively short to hold their attention. Their intelligence means they can get bored with repetitive tasks.
Early socialization and puppy training classes are crucial. Exposing them to different people, sounds, and environments will help them grow into well-adjusted adults. Due to their intelligence, some Tollers can be strong-willed, so consistent and patient leadership is a must.
Diet
A high-quality, complete, and balanced dog food is essential for the active Toller. The specific amount will depend on the dog's age, size, activity level, and metabolism.
Typically, an adult Toller will need about 2 to 2.5 cups of dry food per day, divided into two meals. This helps prevent bloating and keeps their energy levels stable.
Tollers can be prone to weight gain, so it's important to monitor their calorie intake and body condition. Treats should be given in moderation, especially during training.
Exercise
This is not a breed for a sedentary owner. Tollers have very high exercise needs and require at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity daily.
They excel at and enjoy activities like running, hiking, and especially swimming. Their heritage as retrievers means they have a natural love for water and fetching.
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Activities like obedience training, agility, dock diving, and puzzle toys will help keep their sharp minds occupied and prevent boredom-related behaviors.
Environment
Tollers are best suited for a home with a securely fenced yard where they can run and play safely. Their high prey drive means they may chase after small animals.
While they can adapt to apartment living, it's only recommended if their extensive daily exercise and stimulation needs are diligently met. Their potential for a high-pitched 'Toller scream' when excited might be a concern for close neighbors.
This breed thrives in an active family environment where they can be involved in daily activities. They are not suited to being left alone for long periods.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
A home with a fenced yard is strongly recommended to accommodate their energy.
Climate Adaptability
Their double coat offers good protection in cooler weather, but care should be taken in extreme heat.
Apartment Living
Generally not recommended unless the owner is extremely dedicated to providing several hours of outdoor activity every day.
Best Suited For
Perfect for active singles, couples, or families who enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, swimming, and camping.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers good family dogs?
Yes, Tollers are very affectionate and playful, making them excellent companions for active families with children. They are patient but their high energy might be overwhelming for very young toddlers.
Do Tollers bark a lot?
Tollers are not known for nuisance barking, but they do have a unique, high-pitched 'Toller scream' they use when excited or frustrated, which can be quite loud.
How much exercise does a Toller need?
A Toller needs a minimum of 60-90 minutes of vigorous exercise every day, which should include activities that challenge them both physically and mentally, like swimming and fetching.
Are Tollers easy to train?
Tollers are highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them trainable. However, their intelligence can also lead to stubbornness, so they require a consistent, patient, and engaging training approach.
What is 'tolling'?
Tolling is a unique hunting technique where the dog's playful, fox-like antics at the water's edge lure curious ducks and geese closer for the hunter. The dog does not bark but instead throws and chases a toy or stick.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Requires early and extensive socialization, consistent training from day one, and puppy-specific nutrition for healthy growth.
Senior Care
May require joint supplements, a diet for senior dogs, and an exercise routine adjusted to their mobility and health status.
First-Time Owner Tips
Can be challenging for first-time owners due to their high intelligence and extreme exercise needs. Experienced dog owners are a better fit.
Looking for a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.