Which dog breed is right for you?
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever — often called the "Toller" — was developed in the early 19th century in Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia, as the only retriever bred specifically to lure waterfowl within gunshot range. They are the smallest of the retriever breeds, standing 17 to 21 inches and weighing 35 to 50 pounds. Their medium-length, water-repellent double coat ranges from golden red to dark coppery red, usually with white markings on the chest, feet, and tail tip.
Tollers are intelligent, outgoing, and tireless — possessing a unique playful style that originally attracted curious ducks to shore. They are affectionate and patient with children, and their moderate size makes them manageable for active families. Tollers can be reserved with strangers and sometimes emit a distinctive high-pitched scream of excitement that surprises first-time owners.
Looking for an energetic, uniquely skilled retriever? Find Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers ready for adoption on Puplister.
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon was developed in the late 19th century by Dutch breeder Eduard Karel Korthals, who meticulously crossed French and German griffons, setters, spaniels, and pointers to create what he considered the "supreme gundog." These medium-sized sporting dogs stand 20 to 24 inches tall and weigh 50 to 70 pounds, with a robust build that balances power with agility. Their distinctive coat features a harsh, wiry outer layer over a dense, water-resistant undercoat — typically in steel gray with brown markings, though roan, brown, and white and brown patterns also occur.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are eager, devoted, and remarkably trainable — often called the "supreme gundog" not just for their versatile field skills but for their cooperative, people-focused temperament. They are gentle and patient with children, friendly with other dogs, and form strong bonds with every family member rather than fixating on a single person. Their enthusiasm for both work and play, combined with a gentle disposition, makes them outstanding all-around family companions for active households.
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a rare treasure among sporting breeds — see if one is available on Puplister.
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