Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Dogs for Adoption in Tallahassee, FL

A Toller is the common nickname for the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, a medium-sized sporting dog from Nova Scotia, Canada. It is the smallest retriever, with a red, water-repellent double coat and usually some white markings. Tollers are energetic, smart and playful, bred both to lure ducks toward hunters and to retrieve them from water.

Duck tolling is a hunting technique in which a dog plays along the shoreline, usually chasing a stick or ball thrown by a hidden hunter. The dog's lively movement and white-tipped tail draw curious ducks and geese closer to investigate. Once the birds come within range, the hunter shoots, and the dog then retrieves them from the water.

Yes, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers shed quite a bit. Their double coat drops hair year-round and sheds heavily during seasonal coat changes, often once or twice a year, when the soft undercoat comes out in tufts. Brushing several times a week, and daily during shedding season, keeps it manageable. Red hair shows on most floors and furniture.

To adopt a Toller, check the Tollers and the shelters and rescues listed on this page. Tollers are uncommon in shelters, so set alerts and be patient. Expect an application, a home visit and an adoption fee, often around $150 to $500. Retriever and sporting dog rescues may list Toller mixes.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are medium-sized dogs, standing about 17 to 21 inches at the shoulder. Most weigh between 35 and 50 pounds, with males usually larger and heavier than females. They are compact and muscular, slightly longer than tall, and noticeably smaller than Golden or Labrador Retrievers despite a similar retrieving purpose.

No, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are not hypoallergenic. Their dense double coat sheds steadily and heavily in season, spreading dander and hair around the home. No dog is completely allergen-free, since proteins in skin flakes and saliva cause reactions. People with allergies should spend time with a Toller before adopting to see how they respond.

Many Tollers are affectionate and enjoy cuddling with their family after a day of activity, though they are generally less clingy than some companion breeds. Their energy means they often want to play before they settle. Some are reserved with strangers but very loving at home. A tired, exercised Toller is far more likely to curl up beside you.

Tollers can be good family dogs for active households, and the breed standard describes them as affectionate and patient with children. They thrive with families who exercise them daily and involve them in activities. Their energy, mouthiness when young and vocal excitement can overwhelm very young kids. Supervision and training help, and an adult's known history is valuable.

Yes, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are fairly uncommon in the United States, though they have grown more popular since American Kennel Club recognition. They rank around the middle of AKC popularity lists but are rarely seen in shelters. Toller-specific rescue programs and retriever rescues are the best places to look, and mixes sometimes appear.

Tollers can be vocal, especially when excited, and many bark to alert you to visitors or noises. Their best-known sound is the toller scream, a high-pitched, howl-like noise they make when thrilled about retrieving or play. They are not usually constant barkers when well exercised, but owners in apartments or close neighborhoods should expect some noise.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers usually live about 12 to 14 years, and a 2024 UK study estimated an average lifespan of around 13 years. Many stay active well into their senior years. Autoimmune and eye conditions occur in the breed, so regular veterinary checkups, weight control and attention to changes in energy or appetite support a long life.

A Toller may not suit you if you prefer a calm dog, have limited time for daily exercise or dislike noise and shed hair. Many need vigorous activity and mental work every day and may scream, chew or dig when bored. Their autoimmune and eye health risks can bring veterinary costs. Some are also reserved with strangers.

Tollers are intelligent and eager to work, so they learn quickly, but they are not always easy for first-time trainers. They get bored with repetition, can be sensitive to harsh handling and sometimes test boundaries. Short, varied, reward-based sessions work best. Many excel in obedience and agility when training feels like a game and their drive is channeled.

Some Tollers get along well with cats, particularly when raised with them or introduced slowly with supervision. As retrievers with strong interest in birds and small moving animals, others may chase cats. Individual temperament matters most, so supervise closely if you bring one into a home with a cat.

No, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are not herding dogs; they are retrievers in the sporting group. Their alert, focused style and the way they move during tolling can look similar to herding, and some enjoy herding-style games. Their true instincts, though, are luring waterfowl and retrieving, which is why fetch and swimming satisfy them so well.

No, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers do not have docked tails. Their tail is part of the breed's purpose: a long, heavily feathered tail, often white-tipped, waves constantly while the dog tolls and helps attract ducks. The breed standard calls for the tail to reach at least the hock. A Toller with a short tail may be a mix or injured.

Many Tollers handle cold well because they were bred to retrieve from icy Nova Scotia waters. Their water-repellent double coat and dense undercoat insulate them during winter play and swims. They still need shelter, dry bedding and drying off after cold-water swims. Hot weather is often harder on them, so plan exercise for cooler parts of the day.

Many Tollers are affectionate with people they know and enjoy being part of family life. The breed standard notes that some are reserved in new situations, so they may take time to warm up to strangers rather than greeting everyone. Early, positive socialization helps. An adopted Toller's comfort with visitors varies, so introduce new people gradually.

Toller puppies are usually under a pound at birth and grow quickly, often weighing roughly 7 to 12 pounds by eight weeks old. Weight varies with litter size, sex and genetics, and there is no official growth chart for the breed. Most reach their adult weight of about 35 to 50 pounds by about one year to 18 months.

Most Tollers need at least an hour or more of vigorous exercise daily, such as running, swimming or long fetch sessions, plus mental work. Training, puzzle toys and dog sports help meet their need for a job. Puppies need shorter, gentler sessions while their joints grow. Many owners find a Toller that misses exercise becomes noisy and restless.