Do Tollers Shed? The Complete Grooming Guide for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers

If you're considering adding a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever to your family—or you've recently welcomed one home—you've probably asked yourself: Do Tollers shed?

The simple answer is yes, Tollers do shed, but not constantly at the same level. Their beautiful double coat sheds lightly throughout the year and much more heavily during seasonal coat changes, typically in spring and autumn.

The good news? With the right grooming routine, regular brushing, and a little understanding of how a Toller’s coat works, shedding is completely manageable for most owners.

In this guide, you'll learn:

• Why Tollers shed

• When shedding is heaviest

• How often to brush your Toller

• The best grooming routine for every season

• Which grooming mistakes to avoid

• When excessive shedding could indicate a health problem

Whether you're a first-time owner or you've shared your life with Tollers for years, understanding their coat is one of the best ways to keep your dog healthy, comfortable, and looking their best.

Why Do Tollers Shed?

Understanding the Toller's Double Coat

To understand why Tollers shed, it's important to know how their coat is designed.

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever was bred to retrieve waterfowl in the often cold and wet climate of eastern Canada. Their coat developed to provide warmth, weather protection, and water resistance during long days outdoors.

A Toller has two layers of fur:

Outer Coat

The outer coat is made up of slightly longer guard hairs.

These hairs:

• Repel water

• Protect against dirt

• Shield the skin from branches and rough terrain

• Give the breed its rich, feathered appearance

The outer coat is relatively easy to maintain and shouldn't feel overly soft or fluffy.

Undercoat

Beneath the outer coat lies a dense, insulating undercoat.

This softer layer traps warm air close to the body during winter while also helping regulate body temperature throughout the year.

It's this undercoat that produces most of the shedding owners notice.

When temperatures change, the undercoat naturally falls out and is replaced by new growth.

This process is completely normal and essential for maintaining a healthy coat.

Do Tollers Shed All Year?

Yes—but not equally.

Most owners notice two different types of shedding.

Everyday Shedding

Throughout the year, you'll likely find:

• A few hairs on clothing

• Fur on furniture

• Loose hair after brushing

• Small amounts of hair around the house

For most families, this level of shedding is easy to manage with regular vacuuming and weekly grooming.

Seasonal Coat Blow

Twice each year, most Tollers "blow" their coat.

This is when large amounts of undercoat are shed over several weeks.

During these periods, you may notice:

• Clumps of fur coming out while brushing

• Hair collecting in corners of your home

• More frequent vacuuming

• A thinner-looking undercoat as old fur is replaced

Although it can seem dramatic, seasonal shedding is a healthy and natural process.

Many owners are surprised by just how much fur can come from a medium-sized dog!

When Do Tollers Shed the Most?

Most Tollers experience their heaviest shedding:

Spring

As temperatures rise, the thick winter undercoat is no longer needed.

The coat gradually becomes lighter to help keep the dog comfortable during warmer weather.

This is often the biggest shedding season of the year.

Autumn

Before winter arrives, the old summer coat makes way for a fresh, thicker undercoat.

Again, brushing becomes especially important to remove loose fur before it mats.

Keep in mind that every dog is different.

Factors such as climate, indoor heating, diet, and genetics can all influence when—and how heavily—a Toller sheds.

Dogs living in homes with central heating may experience more consistent shedding throughout the year because they aren't exposed to the same seasonal temperature changes as dogs spending more time outdoors.

Is the Toller Coat Difficult to Maintain?

Thankfully, no.

Although Tollers shed, their coat is surprisingly practical compared with many long-haired breeds.

Unlike breeds that require frequent professional trimming, the Toller coat is largely self-maintaining when properly cared for.

Most owners find that a consistent grooming routine is enough to keep the coat healthy and looking its best.

The key is consistency rather than spending hours grooming every weekend.

How Often Should You Brush a Toller?

Regular brushing removes loose undercoat before it ends up on your furniture—or forms painful mats.

During Normal Shedding

Aim to brush your Toller:

• Two or three times per week

• Around 10–15 minutes each session

This helps:

• Remove loose hair

• Distribute natural oils

• Keep feathering tidy

• Reduce tangles

• Strengthen the bond between you and your dog

During Seasonal Shedding

When your Toller is blowing their coat, increase brushing to:

• Daily, or at least every other day

• Around 15–20 minutes

Removing dead undercoat regularly helps the new coat grow through more easily and significantly reduces the amount of loose fur around your home.

Essential Grooming Tools Every Toller Owner Should Have

Investing in quality grooming tools makes a huge difference.

A few well-chosen brushes are far better than a cupboard full of gadgets you'll never use.

Slicker Brush

Perfect for:

• Removing loose fur

• Preventing tangles

• Daily maintenance

A slicker brush is often the first tool owners reach for.

Undercoat Rake

Especially useful during spring and autumn coat blows.

It reaches deep into the dense undercoat without damaging the protective outer coat when used correctly.

Metal Comb

Ideal for checking:

• Behind the ears

• Feathering on the legs

• Tail

• Chest

If the comb glides through smoothly, you've probably removed all hidden tangles.

Nail Clippers or Grinder

Although not directly related to shedding, regular nail maintenance should always be part of a complete grooming routine.

Overgrown nails can affect posture and movement, particularly in such an active breed.

Bathing Your Toller

One of the biggest grooming mistakes new owners make is bathing too frequently.

Tollers have natural oils that help waterproof their coat and protect their skin.

Bathing too often strips away these oils, which can leave the coat dry, dull, and less weather resistant.

For most healthy Tollers, bathing every 6–8 weeks, or when genuinely dirty, is more than enough.

After muddy adventures or swimming, a thorough rinse with clean water is often all that's needed unless they've rolled in something particularly unpleasant.

Always use a high-quality dog shampoo designed to support the skin's natural barrier, and rinse thoroughly to avoid residue that can cause irritation.

Coat Care After Swimming and Outdoor Adventures

If there's one thing many Tollers love, it's water.

Whether it's retrieving from a lake, splashing through streams, or enjoying a rainy woodland walk, their coat is built for outdoor life.

However, a little care afterwards helps keep it in excellent condition.

After swimming:

• Rinse off chlorine or saltwater where possible.

• Towel dry thoroughly.

• Pay special attention to the feathering on the legs and tail.

• Brush once the coat is almost dry to prevent tangles.

• Check the ears for excess moisture, especially after frequent swimming.

• Keep everything tight in the tote bag.

Similarly, after muddy walks, inspect the coat for burrs, twigs, and seeds that can become trapped in the feathering.

A few minutes of post-adventure grooming can save much more time later—and your Toller will appreciate the attention.

Common Grooming Mistakes Toller Owners Make

Even though Tollers have a relatively low-maintenance coat compared to some long-haired breeds, a few common mistakes can make shedding harder to manage and even affect your dog's skin and coat health.

Mistake 1: Brushing Only When the Dog Is Shedding

Many owners only reach for the brush when they notice fur collecting around the house.

By then, loose undercoat has often started to tangle, especially behind the ears, around the chest, under the front legs, and in the feathering on the legs and tail.

A consistent grooming routine is far more effective than occasional marathon brushing sessions.

Mistake 2: Shaving a Toller

One of the biggest myths is that shaving a double-coated dog will reduce shedding or keep them cooler in summer.

It won't.

In fact, shaving can damage the coat's natural ability to regulate temperature and protect the skin from the sun. The outer guard hairs may also grow back unevenly, changing the coat's texture and appearance.

With very few medical exceptions advised by a veterinarian, a Toller should never be shaved.

Mistake 3: Using the Wrong Grooming Tools

Not every brush is suitable for a double-coated breed.

Using harsh de-shedding blades or excessive force can damage the protective outer coat.

Instead, stick to quality grooming tools designed for double-coated dogs and work gently through the coat in sections.

Mistake 4: Forgetting the Hidden Areas

The coat may look tidy from above while small mats develop underneath.

Pay extra attention to:

• Behind the ears, or over the head.

• Under the collar or harness

• Feathering on the legs

• Under the tail

• Chest

• Armpits

These areas are where tangles are most likely to form.

Seasonal Grooming Calendar

A consistent routine throughout the year makes grooming much easier than trying to catch up during heavy shedding periods.

Spring

As the winter undercoat starts to shed:

• Brush daily or every other day

• Increase vacuuming around the house

• Check for tangles after brushing

• Keep grooming sessions relaxed and rewarding

This is usually the heaviest shedding season.

Summer

The coat is lighter, making maintenance a little easier.

Focus on:

• Brushing two or three times a week

• Checking for grass seeds after walks

• Rinsing after swimming

• Inspecting paws after long hikes

Autumn

Another seasonal coat change begins.

Increase brushing frequency again to help remove the old summer undercoat before the thicker winter coat develops.

Winter

Although shedding often slows, winter adventures can introduce mud, snow, and debris into the coat.

Regular brushing helps prevent small tangles from becoming larger mats while keeping the feathering clean.

Can Diet Affect Shedding?

Absolutely.

A healthy coat starts from the inside.

Poor nutrition can contribute to:

• Excessive shedding

• Dry skin

• Dull fur

• Brittle coat texture

A complete, balanced diet rich in high-quality protein and essential fatty acids helps support healthy skin and coat growth.

Always make dietary changes gradually and consult your veterinarian if you're concerned about your dog's nutritional needs.

Fresh water is equally important. Well-hydrated skin is generally healthier and less prone to irritation.

When Is Shedding a Cause for Concern?

Normal shedding is expected.

However, excessive or unusual hair loss may indicate an underlying health issue.

Contact your veterinarian if you notice:

• Bald patches

• Red or inflamed skin

• Constant scratching

• Persistent dandruff

• Strong skin odour

• Hair falling out in clumps outside normal seasonal shedding

• Sudden changes in coat quality

Possible causes include:

• Allergies

• Skin infections

• Parasites

• Hormonal conditions

• Nutritional deficiencies

• Stress

Early diagnosis often makes treatment much easier.

How Much Do Tollers Shed Compared to Other Breeds?

If you're deciding whether a Toller is the right dog for your family, it helps to compare their coat with other popular breeds.

Tollers aren't considered a low-shedding breed, but many owners find their coat easier to manage and this hat better to wear, than expected because it naturally repels dirt and doesn't require regular trimming.

Living With Toller Hair

Ask almost any long-time Toller owner and they'll probably smile when you mention dog hair.

You'll find it:

• On your clothes

• In the car

• On hiking backpacks

• Occasionally in your morning coffee (despite your best efforts!)

It's simply part of sharing your life with a double-coated working dog.

Most owners quickly decide it's a small price to pay for the intelligence, affection, and enthusiasm that make the breed so special.

As many Toller enthusiasts like to joke:

"Dog hair is just part of the décor."

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Tollers shed a lot?

Yes. Tollers shed moderately throughout the year and heavily during seasonal coat changes in spring and autumn. Regular brushing helps keep shedding under control.

Are Tollers hypoallergenic?

No. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are not considered hypoallergenic. They shed and produce dander like most double-coated breeds.

How often should I brush my Toller?

Aim for two or three brushing sessions each week during most of the year, increasing to daily brushing during seasonal shedding.

Should I shave my Toller in summer?

No. Shaving can damage the protective double coat and interfere with its natural temperature regulation.

How often should a Toller be bathed?

Most healthy Tollers only need a bath every six to eight weeks, or when particularly dirty after outdoor adventures.

Why is my Toller shedding more than usual?

Seasonal coat changes are the most common reason. If excessive shedding is accompanied by bald patches, itching, or skin irritation, consult your veterinarian.

Does regular brushing reduce shedding?

Yes. Brushing removes loose undercoat before it falls around your home and helps distribute natural oils through the coat.

Conclusion

So, do Tollers shed?

Yes—but for most owners, shedding is simply part of life with this wonderful breed.

Their beautiful double coat is designed to protect them in all kinds of weather, and seasonal shedding is a completely natural part of that process. With regular brushing, sensible bathing, and a consistent grooming routine, keeping your Toller's coat healthy is much easier than many people expect.

More importantly, grooming isn't just about appearance. It's an opportunity to check your dog's skin, monitor their overall health, and spend quality time together. Many Tollers come to enjoy grooming sessions when they're introduced positively and rewarded with praise or treats.

If you're already sharing your life with a Toller—or planning to welcome one soon—we hope this guide has helped you feel more confident about caring for their coat throughout the year.

At The Toller Club, we're passionate about celebrating everything that makes this incredible breed unique. Explore our growing collection of breed guides, owner resources, and Toller-inspired apparel created for people who proudly embrace life with a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.