Sporting Group · Purebred · Canada's clever fox-colored retriever — the only breed that lures ducks within range by playing on the shore, then dives in to retrieve them with the athleticism of a much larger dog
Watch this video for a quick overview of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever — see the breed in action before diving into the details below.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever was developed in the Little River district of Nova Scotia, Canada, in the early 19th century to assist hunters of waterfowl on the tidal flats of the Bay of Fundy. The breed's name references 'tolling' — an old English term for enticing or luring — because the Toller was trained to run, fetch, and play energetically along the shore while the hunter hid in a blind. Ducks, curious about the playful fox-colored dog, would swim closer to investigate, putting themselves within shotgun range before the Toller was sent to retrieve the birds.
Tollers are energetic, intelligent, and highly affectionate with their families — they are sometimes called the 'middle child' of the retriever family, combining the Golden's warmth with a spark of terrier-like independence. They are vocal, using a distinctive high-pitched 'Toller scream' when extremely excited, and they need substantial daily exercise to stay balanced. Tollers excel at dog sports including agility, flyball, and dock diving, and are outstanding companions for athletic families.
Real Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers — browse photos showcasing their look, size, and personality.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are known for being friendly, active, and eager to please. They form deep bonds with their families and thrive on consistent human connection. As a high-energy breed, they are best matched with active owners who enjoy outdoor activities and can commit to regular exercise.
Training is generally a pleasure with Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers — they are responsive, motivated, and pick up commands quickly. They are typically gentle and patient with children, making them a reliable family companion.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are high-energy dogs that need significant daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate activity they can become restless, vocal, or destructive. They are happiest with owners who genuinely enjoy an active lifestyle.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers have a dense double coat built for protection against the elements. They shed year-round with two major blow-out seasons in spring and fall. Regular brushing dramatically reduces the amount of hair around your home and keeps the coat healthy.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are highly responsive to training and genuinely enjoy learning. Their combination of intelligence and eagerness to please makes them a joy to work with — they pick up new commands quickly and retain them well.
Keep training sessions varied and engaging to prevent boredom. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers can handle advanced training — agility, nose work, therapy work, or competitive obedience are all excellent options for channeling their intelligence.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are generally healthy for their size, though regular screening helps catch issues early. Responsible breeders screen breeding stock for the most common conditions, significantly reducing risk in puppies from health-tested parents.
A Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is ideal for active families or individuals who genuinely enjoy outdoor activities and can commit to daily vigorous exercise. Their trainability makes them approachable for first-time owners who are prepared for an engaged lifestyle. Not the right fit for sedentary households or those with very limited time for exercise.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers need consistent, well-portioned meals matched to their life stage. Overfeeding is one of the biggest health risks for any dog — use these guidelines and adjust based on your dog's activity level and body condition.
These are general guidelines for a medium-breed dog. Always check the feeding instructions on your specific food brand, and adjust based on activity level and body condition score.
Look for dog foods where the first ingredient is a named protein — chicken, beef, salmon, or lamb. Medium or large-breed formulas are calibrated for their metabolism and nutritional needs.
These common human foods can be toxic — even life-threatening — for dogs. Keep them safely out of reach at all times.
Always bring your Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever's regular food when boarding. Switching food suddenly can cause digestive upset. Provide the facility your exact feeding schedule and portion sizes.
The upfront cost of a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is just the beginning. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect — both to acquire one and to own one for their lifetime.
Beyond the purchase price, owning a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever costs between $120–$250 per month on average. Here's where the money goes:
Over a 10–13 year lifespan, a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever typically costs between $12,000–$22,000 total — depending on health, lifestyle, and the services you use.
Pet insurance is worth considering for any breed. Buying before your dog turns 1 gives the best rates and fewest pre-existing condition exclusions. Compare 2–3 providers before committing.
Because Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers have such wonderful traits, they're a popular choice for intentional mixed breeding. Here are the most common — and most loved — Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever crosses.
Two fox-golden retriever types combine into a warm, athletic, highly trainable companion that loves water and family life in equal measure.
The Toller's energetic intelligence meets the Lab's legendary sociability — a medium-large, water-loving companion excellent for active families.
Athletic precision meets athletic speed — a highly trainable, energetic working dog crossbreed suited to dog sports, farm life, and active handlers.
Two energetic, highly intelligent working breeds combine into a devoted, driven companion that needs a purpose and an owner who can provide one.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are full of surprises. Here are some of the most fascinating, funny, and heartwarming facts about this breed.