Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

also known as Scotty, Toller, Little River Duck Dog, Novie

Pros Summary


The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, also known as the "Toller," is a medium-sized breed of retriever that was developed in Nova Scotia, Canada in the 19th century. The breed is known for its intelligence, energy, and friendly personality.

The Toller is a versatile breed that excels at a variety of activities, including hunting, agility, and obedience training. It is a well-muscled, athletic breed with a medium-length, water-resistant coat that can be any shade of red.

One of the unique characteristics of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is its ability to "toll" or lure waterfowl within gunshot range by playing along the shoreline. This behavior, combined with its excellent retrieving abilities, make it a valuable asset to hunters.

The breed was officially recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club in 1945 and is now recognized by several international kennel clubs, including the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). It is a popular companion breed in Canada and other parts of the world.

Breed Information


Type

Is Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever a purebred?

Purebred

Purpose

What were Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers originally used for?

Duck Hunting and Retrieving

Lifespan

How Long Do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers Live? What is average life expectancy for a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever? How long can Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers live?

12-14 years

The average Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever lifespan is somewhere between 12-14 years, provided they aren't beset by any exceptional health issues or injuries.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Height & Weight


How big is a full grown Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?

What is the average height of a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever? How big is a Purebred Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever height? Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever dog height:
Height
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 18-21 inches (45.7 - 53.3 cm) 14.0 inches (35.6 cm) 18.5 inches (47 cm) 19.5 inches (49.5 cm)
Female 17-20 inches (43.2 - 50.8 cm) 13.0 inches (33 cm) 17.5 inches (44.5 cm) 18.5 inches (47 cm)
What is the average weight of a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever? How much should Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers weigh?
Weight
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 44-51 pounds (20 - 23 kg) 21.5 pounds (10 kg) 35.0 pounds (16 kg) 47.5 pounds (22 kg)
Female 37-44 pounds (17 - 20 kg) 17.5 pounds (8 kg) 31.0 pounds (14 kg) 40.5 pounds (18 kg)
Weight Gain Potential

Do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers get fat easily?

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a breed that has an average to high tendency to gain weight if their weight is not closely monitored. It is important to maintain a balance between exercise and food intake to keep them at a healthy weight. This can be achieved by scheduling at least one daily walk and engaging in regular playtime with them.

Hypoallergenic

Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers Hypoallergenic?

No

Unfortunately, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What is a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever personality? What are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever dogs best known for?

Affectionate
Courageous
Gentle
Responsive
Alert
Energetic
Playful

Shedding Level

Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers heavy shedders? How Much Does a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Shed?

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. This will remove loose hair and keep his coat growing in the same direction.

Watchdog Ability

What is the watchdog ability of a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever dog?

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, this breed will alert their owner.

Breed History


Origin

Where do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers come from?

Canada

Ancestry

What are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers descended from?

Cocker Spaniels, farm Collies, Irish Setters

Date of Birth

When were Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers first bred? How old is the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever breed?

19th Century

Breed Group

What Breed Group is a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?

Sporting (AKC:2003)
Gun Dogs (UKC)

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Appearance


Eye Color Possibilites

What color are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever eyes?

Hazel
Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What color can Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever nose be naturally?

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What color can Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever coat be naturally?

Red

Coat Length

How long is a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers coat?

The coat of a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever falls in the medium length category.

Coat Density

How Dense Is The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Coat?

Coat Texture

What is the texture of the hair of a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?

Straight

Litter Size

How many puppies can a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever have in a litter? How many puppies can a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever have in her first litter?

12-14 puppies per pregnancy

A Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are known for their adaptability and versatility, they are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments. They are a highly adaptable breed, and make great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Health Issues


Health Issues

Do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers have a lot of health problems?

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever breed is commonly healthy with low vet costs, regular check-ups may not be as necessary but it's important to keep an eye on their health and have them checked by a veterinarian when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns to be aware of when owning a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?

Hip Dysplasia
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Minor Concerns

What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers?

Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)

Occasional Diagnoses

Deafness

Occasional Tests

What are the occasional tests recommended for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever breed?

OFA
CERF
Hearing Tests

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Needs and Activities


Energy

Do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers have a lot of energy?

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.

Social Needs

Do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers need socialization? How social are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers?

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever have above average social needs compared to other breeds.They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

How much exercise should Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers get?

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever dog needs significant physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are also well-suited for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits.

Sleeping Need

How much sleep should a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever have? Do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers sleep a lot?

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are active dogs that don't require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Does a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever drool a lot?

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

How much does it bark?

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers tend to bark moderately, they bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or to communicate something. They may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Territorial

Do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever dogs are known for being average at defending. They possess the capability to defend their territory or owners, but it is not their primary trait. They are not the best choice for guard dogs

Mouthiness

Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers mouthy?

Roaming urge

What is the likelihood of a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?

Prey Drive

Do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever dogs have a high prey drive?

Past times

What do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers enjoy doing? How do I keep my Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever busy?

Fetch, Bike ride, Dog Parks, Walk, Run

Activity Level

What is the energy level of a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever? How much energy does a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever have?

High

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How far should a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever walk each week? How many miles should a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever walk every week?

10 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

How much a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever should exercise a day? How much activity does a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever need?

60 minutes

In general most Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

What level of grooming should be provided for a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a breed of dog that is known for its low grooming needs.

Brushing Frequency

How often should you brush a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?

Weekly

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What are the most commonly used brushing tools for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers?

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Costs


Cups

How many cups of food does a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever eat?

2.3 cups

For an average 44-51 pound (20 - 23 kg) Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever feed 2.3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

How Much Does a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Cost Daily?

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

How Much Does a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Cost Per Month?

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Characteristic


Intelligence

How intelligent is a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever have below the average degree of obedience intelligence among other breeds. However, calling them “dumb dogs” is unfair. Where Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers lack in obedience & working intelligence, they make up for it with their keen ability to understand human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How sensitive is a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever dog?

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever dogs have average emotions and are adaptable to different situations, not requiring extra care like sensitive breeds do.

Affection Dependance

Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever dogs affectionate?

Apartment Friendly

Do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever do well in apartments? Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers good indoor dogs?

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.

Child Friendly

Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers good with kids? Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers good around children?

A Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers typical characteristics indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans

Senior-friendly

Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers good for elderly?

Cat Friendly

Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers good with cats? How friendly Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are toward cats?

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood,

Dog Friendly

Do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever dogs get along with other dogs? Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers OK with other dogs?

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are very friendly towards other dogs. This breed typically have a happy and affectionate temperament around dogs.

Pet friendly

How do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?

Stranger Friendly

Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers friendly with strangers?

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are below average friendly around strangers. Keen of eye and sharp of tongue, most Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are very quick to announce strangers at the door. Once the visitor comes in, some Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers will be friendly and outgoing. But many others have the standoffish or suspicious towards strangers.

Playfulness

Do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers like to play? Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers playful?

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are known to be highly playful dog. So if you're not up for all that, think about adopting a slightly older Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever for a mellower experience.

Trainability

Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever easily trained?

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.

Pros Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Intelligent and trainable
    Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are intelligent and have the ability to learn quickly, which makes them relatively easy to train.
  • Boat Dog
    The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever breed tends to like the water and being on boats.
  • Loyal and affectionate
    This breed is known for being loyal and affectionate with their families, and they tend to bond closely with their owners.
  • Good with children
    Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are generally good with children and can make great family pets.

Cons

  • Not Hypoallergenic
    People with allergies should be aware that Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers may cause allergic reactions.
  • Not suitable for office environment
    Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers may find an office setting too stressful.
  • High energy
    Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers have a lot of energy and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
  • Tendency to gain weight
    A Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever's weight can easily become an issue if left unchecked.
  • Strong prey drive
    Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers have a strong prey drive and may be prone to chasing small animals, so they may not be suitable for homes with cats or other small pets.
  • Health issues
    As with any breed, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers may be prone to certain health issues, such as Hip Dysplasia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), and other issues.