Officially recognised by the Canadian Kennel Club in 1945, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever originates from the Nova Scotia District of Yarmouth County. Whilst Canada claims its origins, the 'Little Duck Dog' may have dated back a few centuries ago in Europe where it is said the fox-like gundog was used for luring ducks into their nets.

The medium-sized, ginger-coloured decoy dog was bred as a fine retriever, with ancestors believed to have derived from the Brittany Spaniel, the Irish Setter, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, the Golden Retriever and a small type of Collie. Both powerful and well defined, the Nova Scotia, or the Toller runs jumps and plays, using his white-tipped tail to lure ducks and geese to the shoreline and into gunshot range. Like all gundog retrievers, the Toller then collects his prey and returns it to his master.

Agile, alert and determined, the Toller has a strong retrieval instinct, which serves him well when working to lure in those curious birds. The Toller's strong retrieving desire and playfulness are natural traits, which are both necessary for his tolling ability. Like Pointers and their natural ability to Point, Tolling or luring is an instinct inbred deep within and cannot be taught, with the Toller demonstrating an intense natural excitement about their duty. A fine hunter, the Toller is highly intelligent, easy to train and has great endurance. At work, he is fast and can speed into action with his head carried out almost level with his back and a heavily feathered tail in constant motion, luring in his prey.

With his soft dense undercoat and his water-repellent double coat of medium length and softness, the Toller is an able swimmer, and using his webbed feet can easily retrieve from icy waters too. Active both physically and mentally, the Toller loves the hunt and like many working gundogs before him, is most happy when employed doing the job he does best.

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