Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Also known as Retriever de la Nouvelle Ecosse · Nova Scotia Retriever · Perro Cobrador de Nueva Escocia
Canada, Retrievers
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 45–51 cm
- Weight
- 17–23 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Intelligent
- Energetic
- Eager to please
- Playful
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is the smallest of the retrievers, from Nova Scotia in Canada. It lures ducks within range by playing at the shoreline and then retrieves them. It has a water-repellent medium-length coat in shades of red and orange, often with white markings, and a feathered tail.
Temperament
Intelligent, energetic and eager to please, it is usually affectionate with family and reserved with strangers. It can be vocal when excited.
Exercise
Needs over an hour of daily exercise and enjoys swimming and retrieving. It benefits from training sports.
Grooming
The coat needs brushing two or three times a week, more at moult. Check ears.
Care & wellbeing
The Toller was bred to play at the water's edge and lure ducks within range, so it loves retrieving and swimming. Dry its drop ears after a dip and keep it lean for the sake of its joints. It gets bored easily, so give it tasks.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 20 kg adult- Water
- 800 ml–1.2 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,060 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A Canadian retriever developed to lure ducks within range by playing at the water's edge, then retrieve them. It is the smallest of the retrievers and has a red coat. It is an energetic, trainable breed that enjoys water and work.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Collie eye anomaly
- Hip dysplasia
- Autoimmune conditions
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Eye tests
- DNA test for PRA
- Hip and elbow scores
Not every Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever get?
Adult Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers typically stand about 45–51 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 17–23 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers have?
The breed can be prone to progressive retinal atrophy, collie eye anomaly, hip dysplasia. Not every Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Canada
- Type
- Retrievers
- Internationally recognised
- 1981