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Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers

Sporting Group

Energetic, intelligent and affectionate

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers

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Breed Overview

These dogs are known for their unique ability to “toll” or lure waterfowl within shooting range, an intriguing aspect of their behavior and history.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Medium
  • Height 17-21 inches
  • Weight 35-50 pounds
  • Life Span 12 to 14 years
  • Coat Medium length, soft, with a water-repellent double coat
  • Color Various shades of red and orange, with possible white markings
  • Grooming Regular brushing to manage shedding and matting
  • Temperament Outgoing, intelligent, affectionate, energetic, alert, playful, eager, devoted and trainable
  • Energy Level High
  • Intelligence High
Health Needs
  • Exercise High. Requires regular, vigorous exercise
  • Trainability Highly trainable, eager to please, responds well to positive reinforcement, excels in obedience
  • Socialization Crucial early, enjoys interacting, highly sociable
  • Grooming Regular brushing to manage shedding and matting
  • Health Issues Generally healthy, but some may be prone to hereditary health issues like hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and autoimmune thyroiditis
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Best suited for active families or individuals who can provide enough exercise and mental stimulation
  • Suitable Living Space Best with spacious yard, active lifestyle; adaptable to various living situations

About the Breed

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is the smallest of the retrievers and was bred primarily for hunting. It is often mistaken for a small Golden Retriever. Tollers are known for their ability to lure waterfowl within gunshot range, known as “tolling.”

History of the Breed

Originating from Nova Scotia, Canada, the Toller was bred in the early 19th century. The breed was developed to toll (or lure) ducks and geese within range of the hunters by playing along the shoreline. This unique method of hunting is where they got their name.

Nova Scotia Canada

Fun Facts About the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

What To Expect When Caring For a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Health

While generally healthy, Tollers are prone to certain genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and autoimmune thyroiditis. Regular vet check-ups and attention to any signs of discomfort are crucial.

Grooming

Their coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and manage shedding. During shedding seasons, more frequent grooming is necessary. Regular ear cleaning and nail trimming are also important.

Exercise

This breed requires a lot of exercise. Daily activities such as long walks, runs, or fetch games are essential to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.

Training

Tollers are intelligent and learn quickly. Positive reinforcement techniques work best. Early socialization and obedience training are recommended.

Nutrition

A well-balanced diet suitable for their age, size, and activity level is important. Regular meals rather than free feeding are advisable to maintain their optimal weight.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a versatile, affectionate, and intelligent breed, perfect for those who can match their vibrant energy and zest for life. With proper care, training, and love, a Toller can be a wonderful addition to any family.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

Like all dog breeds, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is prone to certain health issues. Prospective and current owners need to be aware of these potential health problems and the recommended tests to identify them early.

Description: A hereditary condition where the thighbone doesn't fit snugly into the hip joint. This can lead to arthritis or lameness.

Description: A family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina, potentially leading to blindness.

Description: An inherited condition that can affect the retina, choroid, and sclera of the eye, and may lead to vision impairment or blindness.

Description: An inherited condition that may result in hypothyroidism, where the body's immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

Description: Similar to hip dysplasia, this is a condition involving multiple developmental abnormalities of the elbow joint in dogs, leading to joint laxity, pain, and lameness.

Description: A disorder in which the adrenal glands don't produce enough hormones. This can lead to symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Hip Dysplasia

Description: A hereditary condition where the thighbone doesn't fit snugly into the hip joint. This can lead to arthritis or lameness.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Description: A family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina, potentially leading to blindness.

Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)

Description: An inherited condition that can affect the retina, choroid, and sclera of the eye, and may lead to vision impairment or blindness.

Autoimmune Thyroiditis

Description: An inherited condition that may result in hypothyroidism, where the body's immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

Elbow Dysplasia

Description: Similar to hip dysplasia, this is a condition involving multiple developmental abnormalities of the elbow joint in dogs, leading to joint laxity, pain, and lameness.

Addison's Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism)

Description: A disorder in which the adrenal glands don't produce enough hormones. This can lead to symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Owners must work closely with a veterinarian to schedule and perform these tests, especially if they are planning to breed their dogs. Early detection and management of these health issues can significantly improve the quality of life for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers. Regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and an active lifestyle also play a significant role in maintaining their health.

Prescription Medication Assistance for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers

The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?

The annual cost of caring for a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever can vary significantly depending on various factors such as location, the individual needs of the dog, and the level of care you choose to provide. Here’s a breakdown of the typical expenses:

A purebred Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

Initial Cost

$1000 - 3000

Potential Additional Costs:

When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever enthusiasts.

Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

Initial Cost

$200 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

High-quality dog food and treats.

Estimated Cost

$250 - 700

Potential Additional Costs:

Learn more about the best quality dog food for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers.

Tollers require regular grooming.

Estimated Cost

$120 - 420

Potential Additional Costs:

If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

Estimate Cost

$200 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!.

Your Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

Estimated Cost

$50 - 200

Potential Additional Costs:

Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

Estimated Cost

$35 - 70

Total Estimated Annual Cost:

$2555 - $6990

It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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