Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever is a breed of dog developed in Nova Scotia for duck hunting. Hunters used this breed, often called simply the toller, to toll (lure) and retrieve birds. A male toller should grow 18 to 21 inches (46 to 53 centimeters) high at the shoulder and weigh 45 to 51 pounds (20 to 23 kilograms). A female may be slightly smaller.
The toller’s muscular body has a waterproof double coat of moderately long, thick hair. This coat was originally developed to protect the dog from the icy waters it had to enter when hunting. Tollers also have a wedge-shaped head, triangular ears with rounded tips, and an elongated tail with long, feathered hair. Coloring can include any shade of red, with distinctive white markings on the feet, chest, face, and tail tip.
The Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever was originally developed in the early 1800’s. This intelligent dog has a friendly, loyal personality and can make an excellent family pet.
See also Retriever.
