Shetland Sheepdog vs Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Breed Compatibility
92% Compatible
Energy Level
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever4/5
Good with Strangers
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Shetland Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision problems
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
MDR1 Gene: Medicine sensitivity
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
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
Shetland Sheepdog
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent family dog
Low maintenance cost
Good with children
Cons
Excessive barking tendency
Heavy shedding
Can be shy with strangers
Requires extensive grooming
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
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Fun Fact
Their unique 'tolling' behavior mimics foxes to attract curious waterfowl within hunting range.
Heritage & Purpose
Shetland Sheepdog
Origin:
Developed in the Shetland Islands during the 1800s, these dogs were bred to herd sheep and small livestock across rugged terrain while being compact enough to maintain on limited resources.
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
Shetland Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions needed for double coat maintenance. Requires early socialization to prevent shyness. Tendency to bark needs early training attention.
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.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Shetland Sheepdog vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Shetland Sheepdog vs Wire Fox Terrier →Similar Size
Shetland Sheepdog vs Schipperke →