Nova scotia duck tolling retriever

Overall description of the breed

The exact origins of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever remain mysterious. However, we know with certainty that it was primarily developed in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia, from which it takes its name. Bred and selected for over a century for waterfowl hunting, it excels as a predator of waterfowl. Its main tasks revolve around tracking and retrieving prey to their owners.

Resulting from a crossbreeding between the Golden Retriever, Spaniel, and English Setter, its hunting qualities are exceptional, although they were not widely recognized until the mid-20th century. In 1945, the CKC (Canadian Kennel Club) decided to recognize it as a distinct breed, propelling its popularity. Other globally recognized clubs such as the AKC, UKC, and KC in the UK followed suit a few years later. It wasn't until November 30, 1981, that the International Canine Federation officially registered it as a breed. Its current standard was published on June 24, 1987.

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a medium-sized dog. Its constitution is harmonious, dynamic, and particularly powerful, allowing it to move easily in water while maintaining fluid agility in its movements. Well-proportioned overall, its body length is equal to its height at the withers, placing it in a square shape.

Its bone structure is robust, its chest is deep and wide, and its backline is straight, with a discreetly raised abdomen. Its head is proportionate to the rest of the body, with a round skull, a moderately long muzzle, and open, bright eyes that reflect great intelligence. Its ears are wide, of medium length, and hang down along its jaws.

The coat of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is medium in length, soft to the touch, and slightly wavy. It is associated with a thick and particularly silky undercoat, offering good protection against challenging weather conditions. The colors accepted by the breed standard range from all shades of red to orange, sometimes with white markings on the paws, chest, or tail.

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a particularly active and adaptable hunting dog. Possessing great work intelligence, it is the ideal partner. In addition to being an efficient team member, it proves to be an affectionate and gentle family companion, always in good spirits. It greatly enjoys playful activities with its owners, especially children with whom it has a natural affinity.

Determined and resolute, this game retriever never backs down from a challenge, and hours of intensive tracking do not faze it. Cautious around strangers, it makes a good property guardian, always attentive to its surroundings. Its training generally goes smoothly, provided that its trainer displays consistency and accuracy. Its energy expenditure needs are quite high. If not met, it can become destructive.

It's a dog that quickly becomes bored, so frequent stimuli are necessary for its well-being. Loyal, even to the point of being deeply attached to its family, it's a wonderful life companion that appreciates daily attention and reciprocates it manifold.

In adulthood, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever weighs between 18 and 23 kg (40 to 50 lb) and measures between 47 and 51 cm (18.5" - 20") at the withers for males, and between 45 and 49 cm (17.5" - 19.5") for females.