About Tollers

History & Origin:

Considered a rare breed, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is the smallest of the Retriever breeds.  This true Canadian Breed was developed in the Acadian community of Little River Harbour in Yarmouth County,  Nova Scotia, at the beginning of the 19th century.  The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever was originally referred to as the “Little River Duck Dog” before being officially recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club in 1945 as a purebred dog.

​ Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers or “Tollers” as they are called by those who love them were developed to do a very unique job –  to toll (lure) and retrieve waterfowl. This dual purpose dog imitates the actions of a fox’s quick movements and this elicits a strange fascination from waterfowl. The tolling dog runs, jumps, and plays along the shoreline in full view of a flock of ducks, occasionally disappearing from sight and then quickly reappearing, aided by the hidden hunter, who throws small sticks or a ball for the dog. The dog’s playful actions lure the curious ducks within gunshot range. The dog is then sent to retrieve the downed bird.

Playful, energetic and eager to learn the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever makes an excellentl family pet for active families. His athleticism and keen intelligence must be utilized or that brain and energy could be directed towards something destructive.

The Toller’s coat comes in shades or red and orange with white markings. It’s a double coat requires regular brushing to look its best and sheds heavily twice a year.