The site was last updated on

24 Aug 2000

Name of breed: Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Class: Gundog
Recognized: ANKC, CKC, FCI, KC (GB).
Size: Height at shoulders: 41-52cm (17-21in).
Weight: 16.6-23 (37-51lb).
Coat: Moderately long and close lying, with a thick, wavy undercoat.
Colors: Red fox, with white markings on chest, feet and tip of tail, and sometimes on face.

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever originated in the Maritime Provinces of Canada and has only recently become known outside its native area. It is believed to be of Chesapeake Bay and Golden Retriever stock. With the head of the Golden it is well boned down to its strong webbed feet. Although the breed has been set for over 100 years, it only received a breed standard in the 1940s. It was given full international recognition by the FCI in 1982. This dog's job in life is to thrash about at the water's edge in order to attract the attention of wildfowl, a performance known as tolling. Eventually the wildfowl become curious or angry enough to swim within range of the hunter on the bank. The dog will retrieve the fowl shot down.

Character and care

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is quiet and easy to train. Like many Gundogs it makes a good family pet provided that it receives plenty of exercise. It needs regular grooming with a bristle brush and comb.