Gundog Group
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is the smallest of the retriever breeds, developed in Nova Scotia to lure and retrieve ducks. Their name refers…
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Size
Medium
🐾
Coat
Dense, Water-Resistant
⚡
Energy
High
✂
Groom Every
8 weeks
Character
What is the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever like?
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is the smallest of the retriever breeds, developed in Nova Scotia to lure and retrieve ducks. Their name refers to the ancient practice of ‘tolling’ β the dog plays along the shoreline, arousing the curiosity of ducks who swim towards the unusual activity, bringing them within range of hunters. Tollers are energetic, intelligent, and enthusiastic β eager to work and eager to please. They are affectionate and playful with their family, often described as a big dog in a medium-sized body.
Social Skills
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever with Other Dogs
Tollers are sociable and friendly β good with other dogs, children, and people. They are cooperative and eager to please, making them easy to manage in canine company. They are enthusiastic and playful but can be somewhat reserved with strangers initially. Early socialisation develops their natural friendliness into well-rounded confidence.
Grooming Guide
How to Groom a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Toller’s dense, water-resistant double coat requires brushing two to three times weekly. Professional grooming every eight weeks for a thorough bath, blow dry, light trim, nail clip, and ear clean. Their feathering on the ears, legs, and tail requires regular attention. Their pendant ears require weekly checking for infection. They shed moderately year-round with heavier seasonal moults.
Free & Personalised
Get a personalised groom plan for your Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Tell us about your dog and our AI builds a grooming plan β including personalised Magnesium treatment recommendations.
Pros
- ✓Unique and fascinating breed
- ✓Energetic and enthusiastic
- ✓Good with children and other dogs
- ✓Intelligent and trainable
- ✓Manageable size for a retriever
- ✓Striking red coat
Cons
- !High exercise and mental stimulation needs
- !Coat requires regular grooming
- !Ears prone to infection
- !Can be vocal when excited
- !Strong retrieving drive
- !Not suited to sedentary lifestyle