Are Toller Dogs Good with Kids

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers, commonly referred to as "Tollers," are increasingly becoming popular among dog enthusiasts. Known for their energetic personalities and boundless enthusiasm, these medium-sized dogs excel in various canine sports and have a reputation for being excellent hunting companions. But one question often arises for families considering this breed: Are Toller dogs good with kids? We will answer this question by exploring crucial information about Toller dogs.

The Toller’s Temperament

1. Friendly and Sociable Nature

Tollers are known for their friendly and social disposition. While they were originally bred for hunting, their amiable temperament makes them excellent companions. Tollers are not overly aggressive or territorial, which is an important trait when considering a dog for a family with children. Their natural playfulness and eagerness to engage with others make them ideal playmates for kids.

2. Energetic and Active

Tollers are high-energy dogs. This means they thrive in environments where there are plenty of opportunities for physical exercise and mental stimulation. For families with children who love the outdoors, Tollers can be fantastic companions for running, hiking, or playing fetch in the yard. Their boundless energy aligns well with children’s active nature.

3. Intelligent and Trainable

Tollers are highly intelligent and rank among the most trainable dog breeds. Their ability to learn commands quickly is a significant advantage in a family setting, especially when teaching them how to behave around children. Basic training for manners, socialization, and obedience can help ensure the dog remains gentle and controlled during playtime.

Are Tollers Good with Kids?

1. Patience and Playfulness

Tollers are generally patient with children. Their playful nature means they enjoy activities that kids love, such as running, playing fetch, or engaging in tug-of-war games. However, because of their strong prey drive, it is essential to supervise interactions, especially with very young children. Proper training ensures that their play does not become overly rough.

2. Moderate Size

Tollers are medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 35 to 50 pounds. They are sturdy enough to tolerate some physical interaction with children without the risk of injury due to their size. This moderate stature makes them less intimidating for smaller kids while still being robust enough for active play.

3. Bonding with Children

Tollers tend to form strong bonds with family members, including children. They are affectionate dogs that enjoy being part of the family unit, whether it’s snuggling on the couch or being included in family activities. Their loyalty and protective instincts can provide children with a sense of security.

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Considerations for Families

1. Supervision Around Younger Children

Although Tollers are known to be good with kids, supervision is necessary, especially with very young children. Tollers have a lot of energy, and their playful antics can sometimes overwhelm toddlers or smaller children. Ensuring that the dog is properly socialized and that children are taught how to interact respectfully with the dog is key to a harmonious relationship.

2. Grooming and Shedding

Tollers have a water-resistant double coat that requires regular grooming. While their coat is not as high-maintenance as some other breeds, families with children should be aware of shedding, especially during seasonal changes. Regular brushing helps manage shedding and keeps the dog’s coat in good condition. Grooming can also become a bonding activity for children and the dog.

3. Space and Exercise Needs

Tollers require a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy. If you have an active household, a large yard, or nearby parks, a Toller can easily fit into your lifestyle. For families with children who enjoy outdoor activities, Tollers are the perfect companion. However, if your lifestyle is more sedentary, the dog's need for exercise may become overwhelming.

Training Tips for Families with Children

1. Early Socialization

Introducing your Toller to children and other pets at an early age is crucial for ensuring well-mannered behavior. Tollers that are socialized early are more likely to get along with children, other dogs, and even strangers. Enrolling your dog in puppy classes can be a great way to expose them to various social situations.

2. Teach Kids How to Interact with the Dog

It’s essential to teach children how to properly interact with a dog. Kids should understand that pulling on the dog’s ears, tail, or fur can be uncomfortable for the animal. Teaching children to respect the dog’s space and understand when the dog needs a break from play will help foster a better relationship.

3. Obedience Training

Basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “down,” and “leave it” are essential for any dog, but especially in a home with children. Having a well-trained Toller ensures that they respond well to commands even in the excitement of playtime. It also provides an extra level of control to prevent accidental rough behavior during play with kids.

Potential Challenges

1. High Energy Levels

While Tollers are great companions for active families, their energy levels can be a challenge for households that are not as active. If a Toller does not receive enough physical or mental stimulation, they may become bored, which can lead to destructive behaviors such as chewing or digging. Families must commit to daily exercise routines to keep the dog happy.

2. Prey Drive

Tollers have a strong prey drive due to their hunting background. This means they might be inclined to chase after smaller animals or even try to “herd” children during play. Proper training is essential to managing this behavior, especially in homes with young children or other small pets.

3. Need for Attention

Tollers are not dogs that like to be left alone for long periods. They thrive in homes where they can receive attention, whether it’s playing with children or engaging in training exercises. A Toller left alone too often may develop separation anxiety, which can lead to undesirable behaviors like excessive barking or chewing.

Conclusion

So, are Toller dogs good with kids? The answer is a resounding yes, but with a few caveats. Tollers’ friendly, playful, and energetic nature makes them excellent companions for children in active households. However, they require proper socialization, regular exercise, and training to ensure they behave appropriately around kids. If your family is ready to meet these needs, a Toller could be the perfect addition to your home.

FAQs About Tollers and Kids

Are Tollers good with babies and toddlers?

Tollers are generally good with children, but supervision is essential, especially around babies and toddlers. Their energy levels can sometimes overwhelm very young kids, so it’s important to ensure playtime is controlled and gentle.

Do Tollers need a lot of exercise?

Yes, Tollers require a significant amount of daily exercise. They thrive in active households where they can participate in outdoor activities such as running, hiking, or playing fetch.

Can Tollers be left alone with children?

While Tollers are good with kids, it’s always best to supervise interactions between any dog and young children. Even a well-trained dog can become overly excited or accidentally knock over a child during play.

How do Tollers handle loud, busy environments with kids?

Tollers are adaptable dogs and can handle loud, busy environments well, especially if they are socialized from an early age. Their friendly nature allows them to adjust to the energy of a household with children.

Is a Toller suitable for a family with other pets?

Tollers can live harmoniously with other pets, but early socialization is key. Because they have a high prey drive, it's essential to introduce them to other animals slowly and ensure proper training to avoid chasing behavior.