Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is the smallest of the retrievers, a striking red-coated Canadian gundog bred to lure and retrieve waterfowl. 'Tolling' refers to its unique working style: the dog plays along the shoreline, its foxy appearance and busy tail arousing the curiosity of ducks, drawing them within gun range before it retrieves the downed birds. Compact, powerful and athletic, the Toller is intensely energetic, intelligent and eager to work, excelling in retrieving, agility and dog sports. Devoted and affectionate with family, it can be reserved with strangers and needs abundant exercise and mental stimulation to stay balanced.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
0 active listings
No Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever puppies right now
Check back soon, or browse other available breeds.
Browse all puppiesWhere this breed shines
- Highly intelligent and versatile working retriever
- Athletic and driven for dog sports and field work
- Affectionate and devoted to family
- Manageable, mid-size retriever build
Things to consider
- Very high exercise and mental-stimulation needs
- Can be reserved or vocal with strangers
- Prone to certain autoimmune conditions
- Seasonal shedding of the water-resistant coat
History
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever was developed in the Little River area of Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia, Canada, in the 19th century, refined from various retrievers, spaniels and possibly farm collies to perform the tolling technique. Recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club in 1945, it is Nova Scotia's provincial dog. The AKC recognized it in the Sporting Group in 2003.
Temperament
Tollers are highly intelligent, energetic and driven, thriving on activity and close partnership with their people. They are affectionate and playful with family but often reserved or aloof with strangers. Their strong work ethic and problem-solving minds require consistent training, exercise and enrichment to prevent frustration.
Questions to ask a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever breeder
- Are the parents tested for PRA, CEA and degenerative encephalopathy?
- Are hips and elbows evaluated?
- What is the family history of autoimmune disease?
- What field or sport ability do the parents show?
Health considerations to discuss
Progressive retinal atrophy and Collie eye anomaly. Inherited eye diseases with DNA tests available; ask for results.
Autoimmune disorders. The breed has elevated rates of immune-mediated conditions; discuss family history.
Hip dysplasia. Orthopedic screening of breeding stock is recommended.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: American Kennel Club - Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever · The Kennel Club — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.