Miniature American Shepherd vs Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Breed Compatibility
93% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever4/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
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
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
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
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Fun Fact
Their unique 'tolling' behavior mimics foxes to attract curious waterfowl within hunting range.
Heritage & Purpose
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
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
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial 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.