Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Quick Summary
Versatile sporting dogs ideal for active owners who can provide extensive exercise and mental stimulation. Excel in water activities and make devoted family companions.
Contents
Weight Range
35-50 lbs
♂ Male: 35-50 lbs
♀ Female: 35-50 lbs
Height Range
43-53 inches
♂ Male: 18-21"
♀ Female: 18-21"
Life Expectancy
12-14 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #84
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Sporting Group
Originally bred for Developed in Nova Scotia during the 19th century, these retrievers specialized in luring waterfowl within shooting range and retrieving game from icy waters
Popularity
#83
Moderately popular breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 18"-21" |
| Female Height | 18"-21" |
| Male Weight | 35-50 lbs |
| Female Weight | 35-50 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 2/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $1,500-3,000 for purebred puppy. Monthly expenses cover quality food ($60-80), grooming ($40-60), and preventative healthcare. Annual veterinary costs average $500-800 plus emergency funds.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Intelligent and energetic retrievers displaying strong work ethic and affectionate nature. Combine playful enthusiasm with focused determination during tasks. Form strong bonds with family while maintaining some reserve with strangers.
Social Needs
Highly social dogs requiring substantial daily interaction with family members. Generally good with other dogs but may need early socialization. Can handle short periods alone but thrive on companionship.
Breed Overview
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers showcase a medium-sized, athletic build with distinctive red-gold coats and white markings. Their expressive eyes and alert expression reflect their intelligent nature. Combining the agility of a retriever with the allure of a fox, these dogs feature a water-repellent double coat and muscular frame perfectly suited for their original purpose of luring and retrieving waterfowl.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Highly intelligent
- ✓ Athletic and versatile
- ✓ Good family companion
- ✓ Excellent swimming ability
Cons
- ✗ High exercise needs
- ✗ Regular grooming required
- ✗ Can be vocal
- ✗ May be reserved with strangers
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Affectionate, Intelligent, Outgoing |
| Energy Level | Needs Lots of Activity |
| Trainability | Easy Training |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily vigorous exercise including swimming, retrieving games, and agility training. High-intensity activities should be combined with mental stimulation through training exercises and interactive play sessions.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 2-3 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Active lifestyle demands protein-rich diet with adequate calories for energy. Special attention needed for weight management during less active periods.
Feed 2-3 cups of premium dry food daily, split into two meals. Choose protein-rich formulas suitable for active sporting breeds. Adjust portions based on activity level and age. Consider supplements for joint health.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adaptable to various homes but thrives with access to outdoor spaces and water. Requires moderate yard space and does best in temperate to cold climates with swimming opportunities.
Requires minimum of moderate-sized yard with secure fencing. Adapts well to various living situations if exercise needs are met. Access to water features or swimming opportunities highly beneficial.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Developed along Nova Scotia's coastline by local hunters, these distinctive retrievers earned their name from their unique hunting method of 'tolling' - dancing along shorelines to attract curious waterfowl within range of hunters' guns.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Nova Scotia during the 19th century, these retrievers specialized in luring waterfowl within shooting range and retrieving game from icy waters.
Fun Fact
Their unique 'tolling' behavior mimics foxes to attract curious waterfowl within hunting range.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular health screenings essential for genetic conditions.