Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers, often called Tollers, are energetic sporting dogs known for intelligence and a playful working style. They were bred to lure and retrieve waterfowl, and many Tollers love games that involve fetching, swimming, and training challenges. They can be sensitive and need rewards and consistent routines. Their coat is water-resistant and needs regular brushing. Daily exercise and brain games, Tollers make affectionate companions and athletic partners for active families.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a medium dog in the Sporting group, known for Energetic, Smart, Playful. Adults typically weigh 35-50 lbs and stand 17-21 in, with a lifespan around 12-14 years.
Quick facts
- Group: Sporting
- Size: medium
- Lifespan: 12-14 years
- Weight: 35-50 lbs
- Height: 17-21 in
- Temperament: Energetic, Smart, Playful, Eager
Temperament & day-to-day life
Temperament helps you predict what daily life with this breed may feel like. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is often described as Energetic, Smart, Playful, Eager. Individual dogs vary, but these traits are a solid starting point when you’re planning training, enrichment, and routines.
If you’re researching this breed because you’re trying to identify your own dog, use temperament as supporting evidence—not the final verdict. Compare size, proportions, and behavior patterns, then confirm with a photo using the AI dog breed identifier.
Training & exercise
Sporting breeds were developed to work closely with people in the field—retrieving, flushing, and staying responsive to direction.
They often do best with positive reinforcement, clear routines, and training that feels like a job (retrieving games, obedience, nose work).
Plan for consistent daily exercise plus mental stimulation; many sporting dogs thrive when they have a purpose, not just a short walk.
History
Tollers originated in Nova Scotia, Canada, developed for a specialized hunting technique called “tolling,” where the dog entices ducks closer to shore. They combine retriever drive with agility and focus.
Care tips
Good care is less about perfection and more about consistency. Start with simple routines you can keep up—daily movement, a predictable feeding plan, and regular check-ins for ears, nails, and skin.
- Give them daily exercise and training; Tollers thrive on learning and activity.
- Try retrieving games and water play when possible.
- Brush weekly to manage shedding and maintain the water-resistant coat.
- Use reward-based training; sensitivity needs gentle handling.
- Teach calm settling—high drive can cause restlessness indoors.
Similar breeds to compare
Many breeds share similar silhouettes and features. If you’re comparing AI results or deciding between breeds, it helps to read a few profiles side by side. Common look-alikes and close cousins to the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever include Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, English Springer Spaniel.
When you compare, focus on structure (muzzle length, ear set, body proportions) as much as coat color. Then confirm by looking at temperament and daily care needs.
FAQ
How big do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers get?
Most adult Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers fall around 35-50 lbs and stand 17-21 in. Genetics, diet, and activity level all influence where an individual dog lands within that range.
How long do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers live?
The typical lifespan is 12-14 years. Preventive vet care, healthy weight, and consistent daily exercise are some of the biggest factors that support longevity.
What is the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever temperament like?
Many owners describe this breed as Energetic, Smart, Playful, Eager. Early socialization and reward-based training help those traits show up as calm confidence at home and on walks.
How can I identify a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever from a photo?
Upload a clear photo (ideally with the full body visible) to our dog breed identifier. Use the results as a starting point, then compare likely matches in the breed directory.