Australian Shepherd vs Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Breed Compatibility
93% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever4/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Australian Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
CEA: Hereditary eye condition
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Cataracts: Vision impairment risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
CEA: Collie eye anomaly concerns
DM: Degenerative myelopathy risk
Addison's Disease: Adrenal condition
Heart Issues: Cardiac health monitoring
Pros & Cons Comparison
Australian Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Versatile abilities
Strong protective instincts
Athletic and agile
Cons
High exercise needs
Intense herding instinct
Heavy shedding
Can be too energetic
Requires constant mental stimulation
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
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
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Fun Fact
Their unique 'tolling' behavior mimics foxes to attract curious waterfowl within hunting range.
Heritage & Purpose
Australian Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in western United States during the 1800s, these dogs excelled in herding livestock across challenging terrain. Their versatile skills and keen intelligence made them invaluable to ranchers.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Origin:
Developed in Nova Scotia during the 19th century, these retrievers specialized in luring waterfowl within shooting range and retrieving game from icy waters.
Special Considerations
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular health screenings essential for genetic conditions.
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