Bringing a dog into your home is a choice that requires careful consideration. Whether you’re an experienced or first-time dog owner, it’s necessary to do plenty of preparation and research. If you’re equipped to handle an affectionate retriever with boundless energy, consider the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.
The smallest of the Retriever breeds is the star of the upcoming horror movie “Good Boy.” Keep reading to see if a Toller would be a good fit for you before you fall in love with the breed on screen.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever’s Temperament
Tollers are an affectionate, intelligent, and highly energetic breed. A member of the Sporting Group, these dogs are born athletes and hunters. Tollers are a breed eager to please their owners. That being said, Tollers should only be brought into homes where owners are capable of providing outlets for their limitless energy.
There’s also something unique about Tollers that prospective owners should be aware of: the Toller “scream.” These dogs have a very high-pitched bark that usually comes out when they’re excited. It doesn’t sound like a regular dog’s bark, but rather, a scream. It’s very loud and can be an unsettling noise, so it’s something to be aware of when considering a Toller.
Physical Traits and Grooming Needs
These retrievers stand between 18 and 19 inches tall, with a trademark luscious, crimson coat. A Toller’s medium-length red coat can range from shades of golden red to a dark copper. They have alert, almond-shaped eyes and webbed feet, perfect for swimming.
In terms of coat maintenance, Tollers require weekly brushing to keep them looking their best. During shedding season, it’s necessary to incorporate brushing sessions into the daily routine. Tollers’ hair around and under their ears is much finer than the rest of their coat, and requires special attention to prevent knotting. Owners should also take care to remove excess hair from between the pads of their dog’s feet, to prevent them from slipping on indoor surfaces. A Toller’s nails should be trimmed weekly.
How Much Training Do Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers Need?
Like with any breed, early socialization and puppy training courses are highly recommended. Tollers can be a more difficult breed to train. They can be a challenging mixture of stubborn and soft, making them harder to work with during training.
Most Tollers respond well to positive reinforcement-based training methods. Having treats on hand to win a Toller helps them enjoy “learn to earn” opportunities. Short, productive training sessions tend to work best for this buzzing breed.
Prospective owners should note that Tollers have a high-pitched bark that sounds like a scream. Tollers often “scream” to show excitement and eagerness, but it can be bothersome. Luckily, it’s possible (with persistence) to train these excitable dogs not to scream.
Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers Good for Families?
Tollers can be great family dogs for the right people. Tollers require lots of physical exercise and mental stimulation. They’re true athletes, and love to go on walks and hikes. These dogs won’t be content without the ability to engage in physical activity on a daily basis. Tollers are highly affectionate, and tend to be good with children.
Remember that Tollers are bred hunters. They were developed to toll, lure, and retrieve waterfowl, and may retain some of their hunting instincts. Tollers love to do things with their owners, making them strong candidates for dog sports like agility, flyball, or field trials.
How Social Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers?
Tollers tend to be a more social breed. They’re especially friendly with their families, but may be wary of strangers or other animals. They may also have a high prey drive around smaller animals. Overall, Tollers are a joyful, loving breed fit for a truly active family.