Bird Dogs / Retrievers / Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The little red dog that lures waterfowl into range

17-21 inches, 35-50 lbs

12-14 year lifespan

Intelligent, playful, tireless

History Physical Traits Temperament Training Health Hunting Style Care Finding a Dog

Origins & History

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is the smallest of the retriever breeds and the only one developed specifically to lure waterfowl into range—a hunting technique called "tolling." This unique breed was created in the Little River district of Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia, in the early 19th century.

What is Tolling?

Tolling is a hunting technique that exploits the natural curiosity of waterfowl. The dog plays and frolics along the shoreline, its flashy movements and wagging tail attracting the attention of ducks and geese. Intrigued by the activity, the birds swim closer to investigate, bringing them within gun range. The dog then retrieves the downed birds. This technique mimics the behavior of foxes, which have been observed tolling waterfowl in the wild.

Development in Nova Scotia

The breed was developed by waterfowl hunters in Nova Scotia who observed foxes successfully tolling ducks and wanted to replicate this behavior with a dog. They crossed various breeds—likely including Cocker Spaniels, Irish Setters, Golden Retrievers, and possibly farm collies—to create a dog with the right color, size, and temperament for tolling.

The result was a medium-sized, red-coated dog with a playful nature and exceptional retrieving instincts. For decades, the breed was known locally as the "Little River Duck Dog" or simply the "Tolling Dog," and was largely unknown outside Nova Scotia.

Breed Recognition

The breed was officially recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club in 1945 as the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. It remained relatively unknown outside Canada until the late 20th century, when it began gaining international attention for its versatility and appealing personality.

The AKC admitted the Toller to the Sporting Group in 2003. Today, while still relatively rare, the breed has devoted followers worldwide who appreciate its unique hunting abilities, intelligence, and suitability as both a working dog and family companion. The Toller became the provincial dog of Nova Scotia in 1995.

Physical Characteristics

Size & Structure

Males: 18-21 inches, 45-50 lbs
Females: 17-20 inches, 35-42 lbs
Smallest of the retriever breeds
Compact, powerful build with medium bone
Slightly longer than tall

Distinctive Features

Expression: Alert, intelligent, sometimes sad
Eyes: Almond-shaped, amber to brown
Tail: Well-feathered, carried high when excited
Webbed feet: Excellent for swimming

The Fox-Like Coat

The Toller's coat is essential to its tolling function—the rich red color mimics a fox, which is what originally attracted ducks. The coat is medium length with a soft, dense undercoat and a water-repellent outer coat that may have a slight wave on the back.

White markings are a distinctive feature of the breed and are required by the standard: at minimum a white tip on the tail, the feet (not extending above the pasterns), the chest, and blaze. These markings flash attractively during tolling, catching waterfowl attention.

Red to Copper

Various shades from golden red to dark coppery red

White Markings

Tail tip, feet, chest, and optional blaze required

Built for Agility

Unlike the heavier retrievers, Tollers are built for speed and agility. Their smaller size allows them to work tirelessly, playing and retrieving for extended periods. Their well-muscled, compact bodies give them the power to retrieve larger birds despite their smaller stature.

Temperament & Personality

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has a unique temperament that sets it apart from other retriever breeds. They are highly intelligent, intensely focused, and possess an almost tireless work ethic. However, they are also more reserved and less outgoing with strangers than Labs or Goldens.

Breed Strengths

• Highly intelligent and trainable
• Intense drive and focus
• Excellent with their families
• Playful and energetic
• Versatile—excel at many activities
• Strong retrieving instincts

Considerations

• Reserved with strangers
• High energy requires outlet
• Can be vocal (the "Toller scream")
• May be too intense for some
• Needs mental stimulation
• Can be stubborn or manipulative

The Toller Personality

Tollers are often described as having a "dual personality." In the field or during play, they are intense, driven, and seemingly tireless. At home, they can be calm and quiet, though they always have one eye on you, ready to spring into action at a moment's notice.

Unlike Labs and Goldens who greet everyone enthusiastically, Tollers tend to be reserved with strangers. They are not unfriendly, just cautious and discerning. With their families, however, they are affectionate, playful, and deeply bonded.

Tollers have exceptional problem-solving abilities and can be creative (sometimes too creative) in getting what they want. They need owners who appreciate their intelligence and are prepared to stay one step ahead of them.

The Toller Scream

Tollers are known for a unique vocalization called the "Toller scream"—a high-pitched, excited sound they make when anticipating something exciting like a retrieve or playtime. While endearing to some, it can be startling to the uninitiated and is something potential owners should be aware of.

Training Approach

Tollers are highly intelligent and learn quickly, but they require an engaged, creative trainer. They are not mindless pleasers—they need to understand the purpose of what they're learning and will shut down with harsh or repetitive training. Positive, reward-based methods work best with this breed.

Training the Thinking Retriever

Tollers are sometimes described as having "an off switch for boredom." If training becomes repetitive or meaningless to them, they will simply check out. Successful Toller trainers keep sessions short, varied, and purposeful. Play and enthusiasm are your best training tools with this breed.

Training Essentials

Make It Fun
Training should feel like play; use their natural drive
Keep It Short
Multiple short sessions beat one long boring one
Use Their Drive
Retrieving, toys, and play are powerful motivators

Avoid These Pitfalls

Endless Repetition
They understand quickly; don't drill excessively
Harsh Methods
They are sensitive; heavy-handed training backfires
Boring Training
Unengaged Tollers become creative troublemakers

Field Training Progression

Foundation play and retrieve drive (8-16 weeks)

Basic obedience and bird introduction (4-8 months)

Tolling introduction and steadiness (6-12 months)

Advanced handling and marking (12+ months)

Health & Wellness

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 12-14 years—longer than most larger retrievers. However, the breed's relatively small gene pool means some hereditary conditions occur. Responsible breeders test for known health issues.

Hip Dysplasia

A malformation of the hip joint that can cause arthritis and lameness. Less prevalent in Tollers than in larger breeds, but screening is still recommended.

Prevention: OFA or PennHIP evaluation of breeding stock

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

A group of degenerative eye diseases leading to blindness. DNA testing is available for the form found in Tollers (prcd-PRA).

Prevention: DNA test breeding stock; avoid breeding carriers to carriers

Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)

A congenital eye condition that can affect vision. DNA testing is available and recommended for all breeding stock.

Prevention: DNA test breeding stock; only breed clear or carrier to clear

Addison's Disease

A hormonal disorder affecting the adrenal glands. Tollers have a higher incidence than most breeds. Symptoms include lethargy, vomiting, and weakness.

Note: Manageable with medication; research ongoing

Recommended Health Testing (NSDTRC-USA)

Hip evaluation (OFA or PennHIP)
Eye examination (CAER)
PRA-prcd DNA test

CEA DNA test
Juvenile Addison's Disease panel (recommended)
Cardiac evaluation (recommended)

Immune-Mediated Diseases

Tollers appear to have a higher incidence of immune-mediated diseases than some other breeds, including immune-mediated rheumatic disease (IMRD) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)-related disease complex. Research is ongoing to understand and address these conditions in the breed.

Hunting Style & Abilities

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is unique among retrievers—the only breed specifically developed to lure waterfowl into range. Beyond their tolling abilities, they are excellent retrievers with boundless energy and strong marking skills. Their smaller size makes them versatile hunters for both waterfowl and upland game.

The Art of Tolling

Tolling is a unique hunting technique that exploits waterfowl curiosity. The hunter remains hidden in a blind while the Toller plays at the water's edge—chasing sticks, running back and forth, and generally being animated. Ducks and geese, intrigued by the movement and the dog's fox-like appearance, swim closer to investigate.

When the birds are within range, the hunter calls the dog back to the blind and stands to flush the birds. The Toller then retrieves the downed waterfowl. A well-trained Toller understands this sequence and will work tirelessly to draw birds in.

Tolling Technique

The dog plays along the shoreline, attracting curious waterfowl into gun range

Traditional Retrieving

Also excels as a standard retriever when tolling isn't appropriate

Hunting Strengths

Unique tolling ability
Exceptional stamina and drive
Excellent marking ability
Strong swimmers despite smaller size
Versatile—can work upland and water

Ideal Hunting Situations

Marsh and pond hunting where tolling works
Duck hunting from shore or small blinds
Upland game in lighter cover
Combination upland/waterfowl hunts

Size Considerations

While Tollers are powerful retrievers for their size, they are smaller than Labs and Goldens. They can retrieve larger ducks and geese but may tire more quickly with heavy, repeated retrieves in cold water. Many hunters appreciate their size for easier transport and their ability to fit in smaller blinds and boats.

Finding Your Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is relatively rare, typically ranking around 80th-90th in AKC registrations. Finding a puppy from a reputable breeder often requires joining a waiting list. Due to the breed's small gene pool, choosing a breeder who prioritizes health testing and genetic diversity is essential.

Is the Toller Right for You?

Tollers are wonderful dogs for the right owners, but they're not for everyone. Before committing, honestly assess whether you can meet their needs:

• Can you provide 1-2+ hours of daily exercise?
• Do you enjoy training and mental games?
• Are you comfortable with a vocal, expressive dog?
• Will you provide socialization for their reserved nature?
• Can you appreciate an intelligent, sometimes challenging dog?

Finding a Breeder

Start with the NSDTRC-USA breeder referral
Verify all health testing on OFA database
Ask about genetic diversity in breeding decisions
Meet adult dogs to understand temperament
Look for titles that match your goals (hunting, agility, etc.)

Questions to Ask

What health testing do you perform?
What is the coefficient of inbreeding for this litter?
What are the temperaments of the parents?
Do your dogs have hunting or sport titles?
How do you socialize your puppies?

Rescue Organizations

Adult Tollers occasionally need new homes. Rescue can be a good option for experienced owners:

• NSDTRC-USA Rescue Committee - National breed rescue network
• Regional breed rescues - Check with local Toller clubs
• Toller Club of Canada Rescue - For those near the Canadian border

$2,500-$4,000

Typical puppy price from health-tested parents

6-18 months

Common wait time for puppies

~80-90th

AKC breed popularity ranking

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