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About the breed
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, more commonly referred to as a Duck Toller or Toller, is a medium‑sized, compact, athletic sporting breed developed in Nova Scotia to lure (“toll”) and retrieve waterfowl. Bred for enthusiasm, intelligence, and versatility, Tollers are both capable working dogs and loving family companions.
Breed Traits:
- Temperament: Highly intelligent, playful, affectionate, and eager to please
- Size: Medium‑sized breed
- Height: males ~19–20 in (48–51 cm), females ~18–19 in (45–48 cm) at the shoulder.
- Weight: is proportional to size and bone: ~45–51 lb for males, ~37–43 lb for females.
- Energy Level: High – needs regular daily activity to stay happy and balanced.
- Exercise & Mental Stimulation: Requires both physical exercise (walks, runs, swimming, fetch) and mental challenges (training, games, puzzle toys).
- Trainability: Quick learners who respond well to positive reinforcement and consistent guidance.
- Working Instinct: Natural retriever on land and water with strong play drive.
Grooming Needs
- Double Coat: Medium‑length, water‑repellent with a dense undercoat, ideal for cold water and outdoor climates.
- Brushing: Regular brushing to manage seasonal shedding and prevent mats.
- Trimming: Minimal trimming, limited to tidying the feathering on the ears and feet to maintain a neat, natural appearance
Health & Longevity
- Life Expectancy: Around 12–14 years.
- Common Health Considerations:
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- Other hereditary concerns often screened by responsible breeders
- Breeder Health Practices: Responsible breeders prioritize the long-term health of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever through careful selection and health testing of breeding dogs. Prior to breeding, dogs are screened using genetic and orthopaedic evaluations recommended for the breed. These assessments help reduce the risk of inherited conditions and support the preservation of sound structure, stable temperament, and overall well-being.
CKC Breed Standard and OFA Requirements
For detailed official guidelines on appearance, structure, temperament, and movement, please refer to the attached CKC and OFA PDF's below. This is the definitive reference for breed characteristics and Health Testing.
GENETIC TESTING
At RedFowler, we are committed to responsible and informed breeding practices that emphasize genetic soundness, temperament, and overall well-being. To ensure our dogs meet the highest health standards, we perform comprehensive genetic testing on all breeding prospects.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever DNA Health Panel Includes:
- Cardiac Laminopathy (CLAM)
- Cerebellar Degeneration-Myositis Complex (CDMC)
- Chondrodystrophy (CDDY)
- Cleft Lip/Palate and Syndactyly (CLPS)
- Cleft Palate (CP1)
- Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)
- Juvenile Addison's Disease (JADD)
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA-prcd)
- Dilute (D Locus)
OFA and CHIC Certification
In addition to our DNA testing, we also perform the following evaluations through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) to achieve CHIC certification:
Our OFA testing includes:
- OFA Cardiac and Eye Evaluations
- OFA Hip and Elbow Certifications
These official certifications provide transparency and verify that each RedFowler breeding dog meets breed-standard health requirements. Participation in the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) program reflects our ongoing commitment to excellence, honesty, and the overall betterment of the breed.