The Toll of the Wild: Hunting with the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever For those of us who value a versatile, intelligent, and downright tenacious hunting companion, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever (Toller) deserves a serious look. These red-coated dynamos aren't just pretty faces; they're purpose-bred to excel in a variety of hunting scenarios. What Can a Toller Hunt? While their name might suggest waterfowl is their sole focus, Tollers are surprisingly adaptable. Here's a breakdown of what they can effectively hunt: Waterfowl: This is their bread and butter. Their unique "tolling" behavior (more on that below) makes them exceptional at luring ducks and geese into range. They're also strong swimmers and natural retrievers. Upland Birds: With proper training, Tollers can be used to flush and retrieve upland game birds like pheasant, grouse, and quail. Their smaller size and agility can be advantageous in thick cover. Small Game: Some hunters successfully use Tollers for rabbits and other small game. Their keen noses and retrieving instincts come into play. Where Do Tollers Shine? You'll find Tollers working in a variety of countries, but they're particularly popular in: Canada: As their name suggests, they originated in Nova Scotia, where they're still widely used by waterfowl hunters. United States: Their popularity is growing among American hunters, especially in the Pacific Northwest and the Great Lakes region. Scandinavia: Tollers are prized in countries like Sweden and Norway for their versatility and ability to handle cold-water conditions. United Kingdom: A growing number of hunters are recognizing their potential. Characteristics and Care Size: Medium-sized, typically 17-21 inches at the shoulder and 35-50 pounds. Coat: Double-coated, water-repellent, and requires regular brushing to prevent matting. Expect seasonal shedding. Temperament: Intelligent, eager to please, energetic, and affectionate with family. Can be reserved with strangers. Health: Generally healthy, but prone to certain genetic conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and hip dysplasia. Responsible breeders screen for these issues. Care: Requires plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training. A bored Toller can become destructive. Training for the Hunt Tollers are highly trainable, but they have a sensitive nature. Positive reinforcement methods work best. Early Socialization: Expose your Toller puppy to a variety of sights, sounds, people, and other dogs. This will help them develop into a well-adjusted hunting partner. Obedience Training: A solid foundation in obedience is essential. Focus on commands like "sit," "stay," "come," "heel," and "fetch." Retrieving Drills: Start with simple retrieves on land, gradually increasing the distance and difficulty. Introduce water retrieves once your dog is comfortable. Gunfire Introduction: Desensitize your Toller to gunfire gradually. Start with a low-level noise (like a cap gun) at a distance, and slowly increase the volume as your dog becomes more confident. Advanced Training Exercises Tolling: This is the Toller's signature move. It involves enticing waterfowl by playfully retrieving a stick or dummy along the shoreline. This requires patience and finesse, but a well-trained Toller can be irresistible to ducks and geese. Blind Retrieves: Teach your Toller to retrieve birds that they haven't seen fall. This requires advanced handling skills and a strong bond between you and your dog. Marking Drills: Practice marking multiple falls and retrieving them in the correct order. This will improve your Toller's memory and focus. On the Hunt: Toller-Specific Considerations The Tolling Dance: This is where the Toller shines. Their playful movements and high energy along the shoreline draw waterfowl in close, presenting you with a shot. Cold-Water Performance: Tollers are built for cold water, but prolonged exposure can still be taxing. Monitor your dog for signs of hypothermia and provide them with a warm place to rest. Soft Mouth: Tollers are known for having a soft mouth, which means they're less likely to damage the birds they retrieve. Versatility: Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of hunting. With the right training, your Toller can be a valuable asset in a variety of situations. Final Thoughts The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is more than just a hunting dog; they're a partner, a companion, and a member of the family. With proper training and care, a Toller can be a valuable asset in the field, bringing both skill and enthusiasm to every hunt. #NovaScotiaDuckTollingRetriever