Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

June 4, 2014

4418

Exercise:
Grooming:
Appearance: [field Appearance]

[field “Ambassador Copy”]

History

Bred specifically to look like and imitate foxes, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever came from a combination of breeds including Flat Coated Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels and Irish Setters. After observing the antics of foxes as they lured geese in for a kill, hunters in Little River, Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia decided to breed a dog that could imitate this hunting style, called “tolling”. One fox would play by the water’s edge, drawing the curiosity of the geese, while another would hide in the brush, ready to pounce. The “Little River Duck Dog” worked in a similar way, fetching a stick or other object thrown by the hunter, who would hide in a blind. Dancing and playing as he retrieved, the dog would attract the birds’ curiosity, all the while ignoring them. The hunter would shoot once the birds were close enough, and the dog would then retrieve them. The breed is recognized as Nova Scotia’s Provincial Dog and is gaining popularity.

Personality

Playful and exuberant, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever loves to retrieve. He needs lots of exercise and a way to make use of his talents. At home, he is affectionate and devoted to his people, but will pine if he doesn’t get exercise. His tolling ability is natural, though regular training is needed to enable him to become a consistent hunting dog.