Icelandic Sheepdog vs Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever4/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Icelandic Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Cataracts: Vision impairment
PRA: Progressive eye disease
Distichiasis: Abnormal eyelash growth
Cryptorchidism: Retained testicles
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap issues
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
Icelandic Sheepdog
Pros
Highly trainable
Good with families
Weather resistant coat
Excellent herding instincts
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Can be vocal
Strong herding drive
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
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Fun Fact
Their unique 'tolling' behavior mimics foxes to attract curious waterfowl within hunting range.
Heritage & Purpose
Icelandic Sheepdog
Origin:
Dating back to the 9th century in Iceland, these dogs served as invaluable herding companions to Viking settlers, managing sheep across rugged terrain and harsh weather conditions.
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
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
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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