Bringing a new puppy into your home is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming if you're new to the breed. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers, or "Tollers," for short, are not the most high-maintenance breed from gun dog breeders, and they are relatively easy to train, but Toller puppies do pose challenges.
Here are some tips to get you started, according to the
Tollchester Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers blog and the
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Club.
1. If you've adopted from a reputable gun dog breeder, your new Toller puppy will have had all of its shots and its pre-adoption paperwork (such as breed verification) done. It will be well-groomed and micro-chipped. Your puppy's breeder will let you know what needs to be done next as far as vaccinations, vet visits, and testing. Keep this information in a safe place, and don't hesitate to ask questions about things like paperwork.
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2. Before you get your Toller puppy home, decide where she will eat and sleep, and set up a litter box filled with shavings. Litter training puppies will make it easier to train them to go outside. When you get your puppy home, bring her to the litter box first, so she knows where it is.
3. Puppy proof your home and yard. Toller puppies are curious and smart – put anything hazardous, such as cleaning supplies, out of reach. Hide electrical cords. Move anything fragile or valuable out of your puppy's reach. Put up baby gates if necessary.
4. Allow your Toller puppy to explore her new indoor environment. Keep an eye on her, but try to refrain from holding her constantly. Don't try to train her on the first day – let her settle in first. At the same time, don't wait to start training. Don't hold off for more than a day.
5. Be prepared: Tollers tend to emit a loud "scream" when excited.
6. Introduce your Toller puppy to the yard when she has to use the bathroom. When she heads for the litter box, pick her up and put her down outside. She'll learn to go outside. Hang a bell on the doorknob so she can let you know when she needs to go once she has it figured out.
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7. Place your puppy in its crate to sleep. Proper crate training will make the crate a comfortable place, which will make travel and vet visits more comfortable for everyone. Never put your puppy in her crate as punishment.
8. Most of all, have fun with your new puppy. Toller puppies are playful and full of energy. They'll enjoy walks, playing with toys, and, of course, endless games of fetch.
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