How to Identify a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

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Last Updated: January 29, 2024 References

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever ("Toller") originated in Canada, in the province of Nova Scotia, and is a member of the sporting group. ^{[1]
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American Kennel Club
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.

Go to source} Although the breed does share a few characteristics with other breeds, it has several distinguishing characteristics as well. This wikiHow will help you with figuring out whether or not a dog is a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Looking at the Body Structure

Tollers are the smallest retriever breed in the AKC, with males being anywhere from 18–21 inches (46–53 cm) tall and females typically anywhere from 17–20 inches (43–51 cm) tall. Both male and female Tollers usually weigh anywhere from 35–50 pounds (16–23 kg). ^{[2]
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The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.

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Tollers should have a slightly wedge-shaped head that appears clean-cut. The dog's skull is usually slightly rounded and broad, even appearing to be flat when the ears are alert. ^{[3]
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Tollers should have ears that are triangular-shaped with tips that are rounded. The ears should also be high-set and set far back on the dog's skull. They are carried in a drop style, and they should be well-feathered on the back of the ear folds but short-coated overall. The length of the ears should approximately reach the inside corners of the dog's eyes. ^{[4]
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Tollers usually have eyes that are almond-shaped and slightly oblique, set well apart from each other. The eyes should either be darker than or blend in with the color of the dog's coat. ^{[5]
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The tail of a Toller should be broad at its base, appearing well-feathered and luxuriant. The tail's last vertebra should reach at the very least to the dog's hock. When the dog is not alert, the tail is typically carried below the level of the dog's back, but when it is alert, the tail should be held up high and in a curve (though not touching the dog's body). ^{[6]
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Overall, Tollers should appear balanced and compact yet powerful, with a gait that is springy yet also shows good power, through a strong, driving rear, along with good reach in the front. ^{[7]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Examining the Coat

Tollers are any shade of red, ranging from golden-red to a dark and coppery red color. They usually also have a white marking on the feet (though this won't be above the dog's pasterns), the tip of their tail, blaze, or the chest area. ^{[8]
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Tollers typically will have a coat that is of a medium length. ^{[9]
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The Toller should have a double coat that is water-repellent and may have a slight wavy appearance on the dog's back. In addition, there is usually light moderate-length soft feathering found on the dog's pantaloons, body, and the underside of their tail. ^{[10]
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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Noticing Temperament

Tollers are known to be very intelligent dogs - in fact, they're the smartest of all the retriever breeds. ^{[11]
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Tollers are active dogs, and as such, they will need daily exercise, through things such as games of fetch, time in a fenced-in yard, or a walk. ^{[12]
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When they are socialized starting at an early age, Tollers typically are fine with other dogs, though they may sometimes chase cats or other small animals. ^{[13]
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Like other retrievers breeds, Tollers are known to be mouthy, meaning they may chew on non-toy items. ^{[14]
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Although some Tollers may be curious about strangers, some are more reserved until they know someone more. This aloofness may cause a dog to become timid or fearful of strangers as they get older, so be aware. ^{[15]
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This is something Tollers are known for, and they do this sometimes when they're frustrated or excited, or even if they happen to notice an animal like a squirrel. ^{[16]
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Tollers are typically known to be affectionate dogs that are great with kids. ^{[17]
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Tips

Consider dog DNA testing if you're wondering whether or not your dog is a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. DNA testing can help confirm your dog's breed.

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