Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Info & Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Breeders

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, or Toller for short, is a medium-sized breed of gun dog bred primarily for hunting. It is the smallest of the retrievers, and is often mistaken for a small Golden Retriever. Tollers are known to be intelligent, alert, high-energy dogs. They get their name because of their ability to lure waterfowl within gunshot range. The breed originated in southwestern Nova Scotia, Canada, where they were used for tolling and retrieving ducks.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are known to be very intelligent, alert, high-energy dogs. They tend to be very affectionate and outgoing animals with family members and are known for being very patient with children. Some dogs may be reserved in new situations but shyness in adult dogs is considered a flaw. They excel at many types of competitions, such as agility and obedience.

Duck Tollers are working animals and are happiest when they have a job to do. Physical stimulation should be provided for these dogs each day since they may become destructive when they are not exercised enough or left alone for too long. The breed standard states that the dog should have a strong retrieving drive, intense birdiness, endurance and a love for water.

Tollers do not have an aggressive bark. Some have a unique sounding bark known as the "Toller squeal", a high-pitched, howl-like sound which is often referred to as their "singing". They do not use this in violent situations, however - for this they have a harsh growl. The Toller squeal is often used as a way to communicate with other dogs.