Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, commonly referred to as Toller, is a medium-sized dog breed that originated from Nova Scotia, Canada. The Toller is a highly skilled hunting dog, specifically bred to lure and retrieve waterfowl. They are known for their distinctive reddish-orange coat and playful personality. In this blog post, we will dive deeper into the history, characteristics, and training of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.
History
The Toller’s history can be traced back to the early 19th century, when they were developed to be a hunting dogs in the province of Nova Scotia, Canada. The breed was created to lure ducks toward hunters by using their playful behavior and their ability to retrieve. The Toller’s name is derived from the tolling process, where the dog would play and jump along the water’s edge to attract ducks toward the hunter’s blind.
Characteristics
The Toller is a medium-sized dog breed that weighs between 35 to 50 pounds and stands around 18 to 21 inches tall. They have a double coat that is weather-resistant, and the outer layer is dense and water-repellent, while the undercoat is soft and insulating. Their most distinctive feature is their bright, reddish-orange coat, which ranges from golden-red to a dark coppery color.
The Toller is known for its intelligent, energetic, and playful personality. They are affectionate towards their family and are good with children and other pets. The breed is highly trainable, and their intelligence makes them a popular choice for various activities such as agility, obedience, and hunting.
Training
Training a Toller is essential as they have a strong hunting instinct and require plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Early socialization and obedience training is recommended, and positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise work best with this breed.
Tollers are natural retrievers and excel in various water sports such as dock diving, waterfowl hunting, and retrieving games. They also enjoy other activities such as hiking, running, and playing fetch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is an intelligent, playful, and highly trainable dog breed that excels in hunting and various water sports. Their distinctive appearance and charming personality make them a popular choice for families and individuals who enjoy an active lifestyle. If you’re looking for a dog breed that can keep up with your outdoor activities, the Toller might be the perfect choice for you.
