Mary Allen
Introduction: The Origins of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, or Toller for short, is a unique breed of dog that originated in Nova Scotia, Canada. This breed was developed in the early 19th century as a hunting dog, specifically for hunting waterfowl. Tollers are known for their unique hunting technique, which involves luring ducks within range of the hunter by playing in the water.
Today, Tollers are popular as both hunting and companion dogs. They are intelligent, energetic, and affectionate, making them great family pets. In this article, we will explore the history and characteristics of this fascinating breed.
The Land of the Mi’kmaq: Early History of the Toller
The Toller’s origins can be traced back to the indigenous people of Nova Scotia, the Mi’kmaq. The Mi’kmaq had a long history of hunting waterfowl, and they used a small, red dog to lure ducks within range of their boats. The Mi’kmaq called this dog "Little River Duck Dog," and it is believed that the Toller is descended from this breed.
The Toller’s early history is shrouded in mystery, but it is likely that European settlers in Nova Scotia began to breed the Little River Duck Dog with other breeds, such as the Golden Retriever, to create a more versatile hunting dog. By the early 20th century, the Toller had emerged as a distinct breed, and breeders began to focus on refining its characteristics.