Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, often called the Toller, is a medium-sized Canadian retriever developed to lure and retrieve waterfowl. Its tolling work involved playful movement along the shoreline that drew curious ducks within range, followed by retrieving from cold water. Tollers are usually red or orange-red with possible white markings, a weather-resistant double coat, and a compact, athletic build. They are the smallest of the retriever breeds, but their energy and intensity can surprise people expecting a soft couch dog.

A Toller needs training that channels motion, noise, and enthusiasm into useful work. Many do well in hunt tests, dock diving, agility, scent work, obedience, and active family life with regular swimming or retrieving. Coat care is moderate, though seasonal shedding can be heavy, and owners should watch ears after water work. Breeders commonly screen hips, eyes, thyroid health, and autoimmune concerns. Good buyers ask about drive as well as friendliness, because a bright Toller with no outlet may invent games that involve barking, stealing objects, or rehearsing the same demand all day.

Colors: Apricot, Bicolor, Black, Black and Tan, Black and White, Black Mask, Blue, Blue and Tan, Blue Merle, Blue Roan, Blue Tick, Brindle, Brown, Brown and Tan, Brown and White, Chocolate, Cream, Dapple, Domino, Fawn, Fawn and White, Gold, Gray, Harlequin, Irish Marked, Liver, Liver Mask, Mantle, Mask, Merle, Mottled, Orange and White, Parti-Color, Piebald, Red, Red and White, Red Merle, Red Roan, Red Tick, Reverse Brindle, Roan, Sable, Saddle, Silver, Speckled, Spotted, Tan, Ticked, Tricolor, Tuxedo, White, Yellow