Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Health & Testing Guide

The Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever, often called the “Toller,” is a lively, medium-sized gun dog breed, prized for its stamina and keen water-based retrieving skills.

Unlike the Golden retriever, Tollers are leaner, with fox-red coats and a highly athletic build designed for rugged working fitness. Males stand up to 21” tall and weigh up to 23kg, with females slightly smaller. Originally bred in Canada to toll and retrieve ducks, their webbed feet make them expert swimmers.

Friendly, intelligent, and eager to please, the Toller thrives in active homes with ample outdoor time. However, potential owners must research thoroughly to understand their health needs and hereditary concerns before bringing a Toller home.

Average Lifespan of Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers

Typically, Tollers live between 10 to 14 years, which aligns well with breeds of similar size and activity levels. This lifespan reflects their generally robust nature, though responsible health management and appropriate breeding practices are key to longevity.

Genetic Diversity and Inbreeding Risks

Nova Scotia duck tolling retrievers have a relatively high coefficient of inbreeding at around 26%, which means the breed is prone to inherited health issues. Prospective buyers should always ask breeders about genetic diversity and the inbreeding coefficient of their breeding stock to avoid health complications.

Breed Conformation and Physical Health

The Toller’s conformation is well balanced and sturdy, avoiding extreme physical exaggerations. Their natural, athletic form suits their historical role as a working retriever, contributing to overall soundness and health.

Essential Health Testing for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers

Responsible breeders utilise a comprehensive health testing regimen to safeguard the breed against hereditary diseases. The Kennel Club and British Veterinary Association recommend:

• Hip scoring, aiming for mean scores below 11.2 for breeding candidates to minimise dysplasia risks.
• Elbow scoring, with zero being the goal for healthy joints.
• Screening for Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), two canine eye conditions prevalent in the breed.
• DNA panel tests covering JADD (Juvenile Addison's Disease), Cardiac Laminopathy (CLAM), Cerebellar Degeneration-Myositis Complex (CDMC), Cleft Palate & Syndactyly (CP1, CLPS), chondrodystrophy, degenerative myelopathy (DM), and other relevant genetic conditions.

These screenings help breeders avoid mating pairs that could produce affected offspring, thus improving the breed's overall health.

Additionally, breed clubs recommend the following to maintain ethical breeding standards:

• Bitches and stud dogs should not be bred before 2 years of age.
• No more than one litter per bitch in a 12-month period to ensure maternal health and puppy quality.

Common Health Concerns Beyond Routine Testing

Despite rigorous health schemes, the breed may still face:

• Polyarthritis, particularly affecting older dogs, leading to painful joint inflammation.
• Cleft palate in puppies, a serious congenital defect that requires early intervention and possible surgery for survival.
• Epilepsy, necessitating veterinary management.
• Meningitis and autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus, rare but significant.
• Hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s disease) and hypothyroidism, both endocrine disorders affecting metabolism and energy.
• Distichiasis, where extra eyelashes cause corneal irritation requiring monitoring or treatment.

Best Practices for Prospective Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Owners

When seeking a Toller puppy, always:

• Choose reputable breeders who provide transparent health clearances and genetic test results.
• Ensure health tests for hips, elbows, eyes, and genetic conditions are up to date.
• Confirm adherence to breeding recommendations regarding age and litter frequency.
• Prepare for the breed’s exercise needs to maintain its physical and mental well-being.

Regular veterinary check-ups and appropriate diet contribute to a fulfilling life for your Toller.

Summary

The Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever is generally healthy and long-lived when responsibly bred and cared for. Thriving health relies on comprehensive hereditary testing, ethical breeding practices, and committed owners providing an active lifestyle and attentive health management. By choosing wisely and supporting health initiatives, you help preserve this wonderful breed’s vitality for generations to come.