Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Dog Breed Profile

by Luke Blaise

AKC Group: Sporting Group

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever dog's primary use is as a duck hunting dog. Of all the retriever dogs, its is the smallest. Normally red in color with a few white markings. It has a great personality.

History

There isn't any clear history of the introduction of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. It is believed that the primary stock was red decoy breed, probably taken to Nova Scotia along with the first settlers in Europe.

Crosses with some other dogs, probably setter-type and spaniel dogs, farm collie and retriever-type dogs, created today's Toller. Initially called the Little River Duck Dog after the region of Yarmouth County.

Physical Features

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is medium in sized, a small, strong, and balanced dog. Height of males is 18 to 21 inches. Females stand 17 to 20 inches.

Acceptable coat colors include any tone of red, between golden red to dark coppery red that has brighter featherings at the bottom of the body, pantaloons and the tail. The brighter tones of golden red should be significantly pigmented and full of color.

Personality

The Toller is extremely clever, attentive, confident, and set for action. He's caring and warm with members of the family and is great with kids, showing tolerance. Some may show reserved actions in new scenarios, but this isn't to be mistaken with shyness.

Common Health Problems

This is usually a healthy working dog that's increasing in recognition. Having a restricted gene pool, a related rise in some health risks have happened. Apart from some thyroid and autoimmune problems, progressive retinal atrophy is beginning showing up in the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.


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