Is a Toller right for me?

Hi all! I'm considering a Toller as a future dog and would love insight from experienced owners to see if the breed would be a good fit.

About me and my current dogs:

I currently have a Lab and a Pug, and have recently lost my oldest Lab and am looking for a new pup to make my duo a trio again.

My oldest lab was more mellow, biddable, and praise-driven—the type who just wants to make you happy. He was just shy of 13 so I've been a dog owner for just about 13 years!

My other Lab is more sporty, high-energy, and treat-driven—fun but definitely more work.

My Pug is sweet, a bit stubborn, and obviously very different energy-wise!

My lifestyle and goals:

I'm active and enjoy training—I've done trick titles, obedience, and some sport dabbling. I really want this dog to be my new sports dog! My pug is my current sport dog but looking for more energy (lol) and some more drive!

I love taking my dogs to training classes and have done it with my dogs for years and want to keep doing that!

I like a dog who is eager to please, not overly stubborn or reactive. However I have a pug so I am not a stranger to stubborn and a "what's in it for me" attitude.

I’m looking for a breed with a good off switch, moderate to high intelligence, and a close bond with their person.

I enjoy doing things with my dogs but don’t want constant intensity or frantic energy as I do work a full-time job, however I am hybrid with a flexible work environment and live less than 10 minutes from my office.

I don’t mind a dog who’s reserved with strangers, but I don’t want one who’s prone to nervousness or overly sensitive. I absolutely do not want a dog prone to aggression, they need to get along with my other two dogs.

I value emotional steadiness, trainability, and adaptability.

What I’m trying to figure out:

Would a Toller feel like a good blend of my Labs' trainability and drive, without being too much dog? Or are they more intense/sensitive than I might enjoy?

How is their temperament in real life—not just on paper?

I guess what I want to know is, am I ready for a Toller?

I’d love to hear your honest pros/cons, especially from anyone who's had Labs or similar breeds before. Thanks!

Posted Jul 4, 2025, 1:23 AM UTC

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