Breeds
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: Temperament, Size & Care
A Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, or Toller, is a bright, energetic, intelligent retriever that bonds closely with its family and needs a great deal to do. Tollers are highly trainable and good with children, but without intense daily exercise and mental work they can become vocal, anxious or destructive. Here is what VCA Animal Hospitals and the AKC say about the breed.
By Matt GarnettUpdated November 14, 20264 min read3 sources
Toller temperament and personality
VCA describes Tollers as energetic, intelligent and strongly bonded to their families, and warns they can become vocal, anxious or destructive without enough stimulation. The breed was developed to lure ducks within range by playing at the shoreline, then retrieve them.
That playful, busy nature is the breed's charm. Tollers are always ready for a game and want to work with their people. They suit active owners who enjoy training and outdoor time.
How big do Tollers get?
VCA gives a height of 17 to 21 inches and a weight of 35 to 55 pounds, and the AKC's breed weight chart lists 35 to 50 pounds. Neither source sets separate ranges for males and females.
Tollers are the smallest of the retrievers, compact and athletic. Feel for the ribs to judge condition, and ask your vet to match food to your dog's activity.
Weigh your dog every couple of months, since an active retriever's needs change with the seasons and its workload.
Toller lifespan and common health issues
VCA gives a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Its breed page lists hip dysplasia and several inherited conditions in puppies; Addison's disease, progressive retinal atrophy, immune-mediated rheumatic disease and steroid-responsive meningitis-arteritis in adults; and degenerative myelopathy, lymphoma and cataracts in seniors. It notes the breed's small gene pool may raise the risk of autoimmune and hormonal disorders.
Ask a breeder for hip evaluations, eye exams and the DNA tests the national breed club recommends for both parents. Ask your vet what early signs of Addison's disease look like. Repeated vomiting, weakness or collapse, or a stiff, painful neck with fever needs a vet promptly.
Exercise needs
VCA rates energy as high and says Tollers need intense daily exercise and mental work, such as retrieving, swimming, agility or structured training, warning that unmet needs can quickly lead to behavior problems.
Plan for well over an hour a day. Retrieving games, dock diving, field work and scent work all suit the breed. Dry the ears after swimming.
On rest days, scent games, puzzle feeders and short training sessions keep a busy Toller from inventing its own entertainment.
Grooming and shedding
VCA rates grooming needs as low to moderate and shedding as moderate. It recommends frequent brushing, regular ear cleaning, especially if the dog swims often, and consistent nail and dental care.
A slicker brush and comb handle the water-repellent double coat, with extra attention behind the ears and on the feathering. Bathe only when needed, since frequent baths strip the coat's natural oils.
Trim the hair between the pads and keep nails short.
Training a Toller
VCA says Tollers are highly trainable and do well with mental challenges, but that harsh methods can reduce their confidence and engagement. Reward-based training with games works best.
Teach a quiet cue early, since Tollers can be vocal, and practice a calm settle so the dog learns to switch off. Keep sessions varied, and use retrieving as a reward.
Practice recall daily on a long line, and teach a calm greeting so an excited Toller does not leap at visitors.
Are Tollers good with kids and other pets?
VCA says Tollers are generally good with children and usually compatible with other pets when properly introduced. Their playfulness makes them fun companions for active kids.
Supervise play with small children, and introduce cats and small pets slowly. Most Tollers get on well with other dogs.
Exercise the dog before family time so it can settle, and teach children to play calm games such as fetch. Give the dog a quiet bed where it can rest undisturbed.
What a Toller needs at home
A fenced yard, a crate, a washable bed and access to safe water for swimming suit the breed. Retrieving toys, a long line, puzzle feeders and dog sports keep it busy.
For care, keep a slicker brush, a comb, ear cleaner, nail clippers and a dog toothbrush, plus towels for wet dogs. Ask your vet about health screening for the breed.
This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.
Common questions
How long do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers live?
VCA gives a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Asking breeders about hip, eye and DNA screening matters for a breed with a small gene pool.
How big do Tollers get?
The AKC lists males at 18 to 21 inches and females at 17 to 20 inches, with a weight of 35 to 50 pounds.
What is a Toller's temperament like?
VCA describes Tollers as energetic, intelligent and strongly bonded to family. Without enough stimulation they can become vocal, anxious or destructive. Your vet can advise on what suits your own pet.
Do Tollers shed?
VCA rates shedding as moderate. The double coat needs frequent brushing, and the ears need regular cleaning, especially for dogs that swim a lot. Your vet can advise on what suits your own pet.
Are Tollers good family dogs?
For active families, yes. VCA says Tollers are generally good with children and compatible with other pets when introduced properly, but they need intense daily exercise and mental work.
Sources we checked
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or injured, contact your veterinarian.
