Dog Breeds - Nova Scotia Duck Tolling REetriever

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed displays towards family members and familiar individuals can vary. Some breeds may exhibit a more reserved or aloof nature, showing heightened loyalty and attachment mainly to their owners. On the other hand, certain breeds are known for their inherent friendliness treating everyone they know as their close companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
Dogs should be continuously supervised when in the presence of young children or children who have limited exposure to them given the breed's level of tolerance and patience with children's behavior and their overall family-friendly nature.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The overall affability of a dog breed when it comes to interacting with other dogs is a significant factor. It is crucial to supervise dogs during their interactions and first introductions with other dogs, while certain breeds tend to have a natural inclination to get along with other dogs, whether it be within the confines of their home or in public environments.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair that a breed tends to shed is an important consideration. Breeds with high shedding tendencies will necessitate more frequent brushing, as they are more likely to elicit certain types of allergies. Additionally, these breeds often require more consistent efforts in terms of vacuuming and lint-rolling to manage the accumulation of hair.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
It is essential to assess the grooming requirements of a breed including bathing, brushing, trimming and other forms of coat maintenance. The frequency of these tasks should be considered based on the time, patience and budget you have available for such care. It's important to note that all breeds necessitate regular nail trimming.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency of a breed to drool should be taken into consideration. If you have a preference for cleanliness, breeds that have a propensity to leave long strands of slobber on your arm or large wet spots on your clothes may not be the most suitable choice for you.
COAT TYPE +
Double
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of friendliness a breed typically displays towards strangers varies. Certain breeds may exhibit reserved or cautious behavior around all strangers irrespective of the setting. On the other hand, some breeds are generally more eager to meet and interact with new humans whenever the opportunity arises.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play even beyond the puppy stage is worth considering. Certain breeds will maintain a desire to engage in activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. In contrast, other breeds will be content to relax on the couch with you for the majority of the time showing less inclination for extensive play as they mature.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
The inclination of a breed to alert you of the presence of strangers is an important consideration. These breeds are more prone to react to any potential threat, be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. They are likely to become more comfortable with strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family, gradually warming up to them over time.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle change is an important aspect to consider. This includes their ability to adjust to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily schedules and other variations that occur in day-to-day life. Some breeds are more resilient and can easily adapt to such changes, while others may require more time and assistance to adjust to new circumstances.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things are factors worth considering. Certain breeds are known to be eager to please their owners and are generally more receptive to training, striving to make their owners proud. On the other hand, some breeds may display a more independent nature prioritizing their own desires over following instructions making training a bit more challenging and requiring additional patience and consistency.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The level of exercise and mental stimulation a breed requires should be taken into account. High-energy breeds are always ready for their next adventure and eagerly engage in activities such as running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds tend to be more laid-back and content with lounging around and enjoying a relaxing snooze. Understanding a breed's specific needs in terms of physical exercise and mental engagement is crucial for providing them with a fulfilling lifestyle.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalization, including barks or howls, should be considered. Certain breeds have a tendency to bark at every passer-by or at birds in the window, while others reserve their barks for specific situations. It's worth noting that some barkless breeds may still be vocal employing other sounds to express themselves. Understanding a breed's vocalization tendencies can help in finding a suitable match for your preferences and living environment.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The mental stimulation that a breed requires to stay happy and healthy is an important aspect to consider. Purpose-bred dogs with jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other qualities have specific mental exercise needs. Without sufficient mental stimulation, they may resort to creating their own activities to keep their minds occupied, which might not align with your desired projects or behaviors. Providing appropriate mental stimulation for your dog's breed is crucial to prevent boredom and promote their overall well-being.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection a breed displays towards family members and familiar individuals can vary. Some breeds may exhibit a more reserved or aloof nature, showing heightened loyalty and attachment mainly to their owners. On the other hand, certain breeds are known for their inherent friendliness treating everyone they know as their close companion.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

Dogs should be continuously supervised when in the presence of young children or children who have limited exposure to them given the breed's level of tolerance and patience with children's behavior and their overall family-friendly nature.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The overall affability of a dog breed when it comes to interacting with other dogs is a significant factor. It is crucial to supervise dogs during their interactions and first introductions with other dogs, while certain breeds tend to have a natural inclination to get along with other dogs, whether it be within the confines of their home or in public environments.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair that a breed tends to shed is an important consideration. Breeds with high shedding tendencies will necessitate more frequent brushing, as they are more likely to elicit certain types of allergies. Additionally, these breeds often require more consistent efforts in terms of vacuuming and lint-rolling to manage the accumulation of hair.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

It is essential to assess the grooming requirements of a breed including bathing, brushing, trimming and other forms of coat maintenance. The frequency of these tasks should be considered based on the time, patience and budget you have available for such care. It's important to note that all breeds necessitate regular nail trimming.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency of a breed to drool should be taken into consideration. If you have a preference for cleanliness, breeds that have a propensity to leave long strands of slobber on your arm or large wet spots on your clothes may not be the most suitable choice for you.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Double

COAT SPECTRUM

Medium

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of friendliness a breed typically displays towards strangers varies. Certain breeds may exhibit reserved or cautious behavior around all strangers irrespective of the setting. On the other hand, some breeds are generally more eager to meet and interact with new humans whenever the opportunity arises.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play even beyond the puppy stage is worth considering. Certain breeds will maintain a desire to engage in activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. In contrast, other breeds will be content to relax on the couch with you for the majority of the time showing less inclination for extensive play as they mature.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

The inclination of a breed to alert you of the presence of strangers is an important consideration. These breeds are more prone to react to any potential threat, be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. They are likely to become more comfortable with strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family, gradually warming up to them over time.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to handle change is an important aspect to consider. This includes their ability to adjust to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily schedules and other variations that occur in day-to-day life. Some breeds are more resilient and can easily adapt to such changes, while others may require more time and assistance to adjust to new circumstances.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things are factors worth considering. Certain breeds are known to be eager to please their owners and are generally more receptive to training, striving to make their owners proud. On the other hand, some breeds may display a more independent nature prioritizing their own desires over following instructions making training a bit more challenging and requiring additional patience and consistency.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The level of exercise and mental stimulation a breed requires should be taken into account. High-energy breeds are always ready for their next adventure and eagerly engage in activities such as running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds tend to be more laid-back and content with lounging around and enjoying a relaxing snooze. Understanding a breed's specific needs in terms of physical exercise and mental engagement is crucial for providing them with a fulfilling lifestyle.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

When Necessary

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The mental stimulation that a breed requires to stay happy and healthy is an important aspect to consider. Purpose-bred dogs with jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other qualities have specific mental exercise needs. Without sufficient mental stimulation, they may resort to creating their own activities to keep their minds occupied, which might not align with your desired projects or behaviors. Providing appropriate mental stimulation for your dog's breed is crucial to prevent boredom and promote their overall well-being.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Red	140
Buff	068
Red Gold	152

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
White Markings	014

About The Breed

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, also known as the Toller, is described as intelligent, affectionate, and eager to please. This breed is known for its tireless energy and love for playing fetch, even to the point of asking you to throw the ball with your other hand when your arm gets tired. Tollers are the smallest AKC retrievers, standing around 18-19 inches at the shoulder. They have a striking coat in shades of crimson, ranging from golden red to a dark coppery color, often with white markings. With their almond-shaped eyes, Tollers have an alert expression.

Tollers are strong, agile, and medium-sized dogs with medium-length coats. Their athleticism and high energy levels require outlets for exercise and stimulation. Activities such as hunting, hiking, camping, and swimming - which they are well-suited for with their webbed feet - are ideal for them. Tollers make fantastic companions with their intelligence, good looks, and affectionate nature. However, it's important to note that they require owners who can dedicate enough time and energy to keep them occupied and engaged.

What to Expect When Caring for A NOVA SCOTIA DUCK TOLLING RETRIEVER

Owning a dog is indeed a significant responsibility that extends far beyond providing the basic necessities of food and shelter. Dogs as sentient beings require a comprehensive level of care that encompasses physical health emotional well-being, and mental stimulation.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Nova Scotia Duck Tolling REetriever: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	The lifespan of Tollers a breed known for its overall good health typically ranges from 12 to 14 years. One notable health concern in this breed is Addison's disease, which often remains undetectable until the dog reaches middle age possibly after it has already reproduced. Despite ongoing efforts, a gene-marker test for this disease has not yet been successfully developed. Additionally, Tollers have a slightly higher susceptibility to autoimmune-related issues compared to other breeds. Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club: Hip Evaluation Progressive Retinal Atrophy, PRCD (PRA-prcd, PRCD) - DNA Test Juvenile Addison's Disease (JADD) - DNA Test Cleft Palate & Syndactyly (Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever) (CP1, CLPS) - DNA Test Buff Genetic Test - DNA Test Cardiac Exam Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	To maintain the exquisite appearance of Tollers, it is essential to brush their coat on a weekly basis. During the shedding season, it is advisable to brush them daily. One must give particular attention to the finer and more prone-to-knot areas around and under the ears. It is important to present Tollers in their natural form, which means keeping grooming to a minimum. However, it is acceptable to tidy up the areas surrounding the ears and feet. Adequate care should be taken to remove excessive hair between the foot pads, as it will help your Toller maintain grip on indoor surfaces. Moreover, it is recommended to trim their nails on a weekly basis for optimum maintenance.

Exercise

	The majority of Tollers exhibit a medium to high energy level and tend to feel restless unless they have the opportunity to partake in regular physical activities each day. For many Tollers, a brisk 30-minute walk or a couple of sessions of ball-chasing can meet their exercise requirements. However, it's worth noting that some individuals may require additional exercise. Tollers greatly enjoy interacting and being involved with their owners, which is why many owners choose to participate in canine sports like agility, flyball or fieldwork. These activities help direct the breed's surplus energy in a productive manner. Moreover, engaging in such sports strengthens the bond between owner and Toller proving to be mutually fulfilling.

Training

	In terms of temperament, Tollers often exhibit a fascinating blend of stubbornness and gentleness. They can display the intellectual prowess of a Chessie and the emotional sensitivity of a spaniel, making them an intriguing breed to work with. Training Tollers can sometimes pose a challenge, as it can be difficult to discern whether they are genuinely struggling or simply trying to outsmart you. However, most Tollers respond positively to reward-based training methods. They have a natural curiosity about what's in it for them and enjoy the concept of 'learning to earn.' Making training sessions enjoyable and concise tends to yield the best results. Nonetheless, it remains crucial to establish consequences for undesirable behaviors. As one experienced Toller owner put it, "You don't want them to believe they're living on a leisurely cruise ship.

Nutrition

	To maintain optimal health, a Toller's diet should consist of high-quality dog food, which can be either commercially manufactured or prepared at home under the guidance and approval of your veterinarian. The chosen diet should be appropriate for the Toller's specific life stage, whether they are a puppy, adult, or senior dog. It's important to be cautious of weight gain, as some Tollers have a tendency to put on excess weight. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor their calorie intake and ensure they maintain a healthy weight. While treats can be useful for training purposes, it's crucial not to overdo it, as excessive treats can lead to obesity. Educating yourself about safe and unsafe human foods for dogs is also essential. If you have any concerns regarding your Toller's weight or diet, consult with your veterinarian for guidance. Additionally, always ensure that clean and fresh water is readily available for your furry companion.

Historiography

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever also known as the 'Decoy Dog,' originated in the 19th century within the Little River District of Nova Scotia's Yarmouth County. Initially, the breed was referred to as the 'Yarmouth Toller' and 'Little River Duck Dog.'

Tollers were developed for a unique hunting method that imitates the fascinating behavior of foxes. These clever dogs use their agility and coloration to captivate waterfowl. By engaging in fetching activities near the water's edge, Tollers pique the curiosity of ducks swimming offshore. The red coat and feathery tail mimic a fox fooling the unsuspecting birds into approaching closer to investigate. Once within range, hunters can take their shots. The name of the breed derives from the Middle English word 'tollen,' meaning 'to lure' or 'summon,' referencing John Donne's well-known poem that starts with the iconic line, 'Ask not for whom the bell tolls...' The Toller is then dispatched to retrieve the downed game and deliver it gently to their human hunting partner.

The Kooikerhondje also known as the Dutch Decoy Spaniel is the only other existing breed that specializes in this fox-like hunting technique.

While Tollers still excel in this style of hunting today, they have evolved to become versatile workers in various roles. They wholeheartedly immerse themselves in all activities, whether it's stealing from the counter, chasing a ball, painstakingly breaking ice to retrieve a bird or simply relaxing on the couch. Tollers approach everything they do with 100 percent enthusiasm as described by breed experts.

When the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever received AKC approval in 2003, it acquired the distinction of having the longest name in the AKC Stud Book with a total of 35 characters/spaces.