Harley's Haven Dog Rescue

Oliver

11 month old

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever/mix

Male

Oliver is an 11 month old strikingly beautiful young Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever/mix around 60-65lbs. He is the kind of dog that turns heads instantly and makes people want him based on looks alone. But, Oliver needs more than admiration — He needs someone fully committed to understanding him and giving him the life he deserves. He came to us as an 8-week-old puppy and was returned nine months later when his family realized he wasn’t the right fit for their lifestyle. Oliver is incredibly sweet, affectionate, and people-focused once he feels safe. He can be unsure with new people at first, but give him a little time and he melts right into you — often trying to climb into your lap like he’s still a tiny puppy. He craves attention and forms strong bonds with his people once he trusts you. He is also exactly what you’d expect from a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever mix — intelligent, driven, and full of energy. Tollers were bred to work closely with their humans, using both their brains and bodies all day long. Oliver is not a couch potato, and that’s one of the best things about him — but it also means he needs an active, engaged owner who will embrace that energy and give him appropriate outlets. Oliver will thrive with structure, consistency, and continued positive-reinforcement training. He is not a fit for a first-time dog owner. He’s still a big puppy and can jump and be mouthy when excited, so he needs someone experienced who will guide him, not get frustrated with him. With the right loving family, he is going to be an incredible dog. He is house trained and crate trained, enjoys walks, loves toys, and is happiest when he has space to explore and a trusted person to share it all with. He does well with other dogs, especially calmer ones. He likes to play, but fast, intense, or overly forward play styles can overwhelm him, so he would do best with respectful, easygoing canine companions. Because of his strong prey drive, Oliver cannot be off leash and is not a candidate for an electric fence. A secure, physical fence would be ideal for him but he could also thrive with an active owner who will take him on walks and adventures! Oliver would do also best in a home with teens and up due to his size, energy, and training needs. Above all, Oliver needs commitment. His heart cannot take another return. He is a wonderful, loving dog, but in the wrong home he could easily be misunderstood. We are looking for someone who sees beyond his looks, understands his needs, and is ready to invest in helping him thrive. If you’re experienced, active, and ready for a smart, devoted companion — Oliver is worth it and may just be the perfect boy to complete your family!