Page 246 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

CATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Nova Scotia Duck

Tolling Retriever

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN
18–21in 37–51lb 12–13 years
(45–53cm) (17–23kg)

This good-natured, attractive gundog adapts well
CUNNING AS A FOX
to family life if given sufficient physical activity
Tolling is naturally practiced by foxes. One or
two foxes will tantalize waterfowl by playing This Canadian breed, also known as method is similar to that of breeds
near them at the waterside. The birds will come the Toller, takes its name from its role in such as the Kooikerhondje (see p.238).
closer to drive the foxes away and sometimes an unusual form of duck and goose hunting. These dogs were crossed with spaniels,
stray close enough for the foxes to catch them. Traditionally, the dog worked with hunters retrievers, and the Irish Setter (see p.242).
Native Americans copied this trick by pulling
in a hide. The concealed hunter threw a stick The breed acquired its present name
a fox pelt back and forth on a rope to catch
ducks. Europeans bred red-coated dogs for the dog, which would chase it with when the Canadian Kennel Club
resembling foxes and trained them to act in a great show of activity but no barking, recognized it in 1945.
the same way. The foxlike coloring and the and this activity would lure in, or toll, The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
behavior (below) can be seen in the Nova inquisitive birds. Once the birds were is compact and agile, with a thick, water-
Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.
within range, the hunter could shoot repellent coat and webbing between its toes.
them and the dog retrieve them. The coat is reddish, often with a white chest
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever and tail tip, like a fox’s pelt. The dog’s
originated in Nova Scotia in the mid-19th playful, quiet, and obedient nature makes
century. It is descended from “decoy dogs” it an excellent companion. It is also tireless,
brought over from Europe; its tolling so needs plenty of exercise.

Triangular,
drop ears held Almond-shaped
slightly erect eyes have alert
expression

Red
Close-fitting lips

Slightly wedge-
shaped head with
tapering muzzle

Water-repellent
coat with dense Typical white
undercoat markings on feet
Well
feathered
tail, broad
at base

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