Spanish Mastiff vs Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Breed Compatibility
76% Compatible
Energy Level
Spanish Mastiff: Calm0.4
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Less Compatible
Trainability
Spanish Mastiff: N/A
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: Easy Training0.8
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Spanish Mastiff: N/A
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Spanish Mastiff3/5
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Spanish Mastiff3/5
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever4/5
Good with Strangers
Spanish Mastiff3/5
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Spanish Mastiff
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Elbow dysplasia: Joint development problem
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Heart issues: Cardiac health concerns
Eye problems: Various ocular conditions
Obesity: Weight management challenges
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
Spanish Mastiff
Pros
Excellent guardian breed
Gentle with family
Patient temperament
Low exercise needs
Cons
Heavy drooling
Significant food costs
Space requirements
Health issues
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
Spanish Mastiff Fun Fact
Spanish Mastiffs were historically used in groups of five to protect sheep flocks from wolves and bears.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Fun Fact
Their unique 'tolling' behavior mimics foxes to attract curious waterfowl within hunting range.
Heritage & Purpose
Spanish Mastiff
Origin:
Medieval Spain saw these mastiffs guarding livestock against wolves and bears in the Mesta system. Their impressive size and protective nature made them invaluable guardians of sheep flocks.
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
Spanish Mastiff
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Moderate exercise requirements must be met consistently. Health monitoring is essential due to size-related 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.