Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever — breed guide
The smallest retriever, bred to lure ducks within range by playing at the shoreline.
At a glance
- Group
- sporting
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 15–23 kg (33–51 lb)
- Life span
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Water-repellent double coat
Living with a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
- Very high energy — built for work and long days out.
- Regular grooming — brushing a few times a week.
- Heavy shedding, especially in season.
- Exceptionally trainable — among the easiest to teach.
- Barks readily.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Can live with a cat, with a slow introduction and an escape route for the cat.
- Not well suited to a flat — space, exercise need or voice works against it.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Average heat tolerance.
- Built for cold weather.
Temperament
Clever · Driven · Playful · Intense
Health to watch
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Addison's disease
- Autoimmune thyroiditis
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever good with kids?
Generally yes. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever good with cats?
It can work, with management. Introduce them gradually, feed them apart, and make sure the cat has vertical space the dog cannot reach. Plan to manage it rather than assume it.
How much exercise does a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever need?
Hours — this breed needs a job or a long day out.
Can a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever handle hot weather?
About average — use normal hot-day sense.
Leash Life keeps a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.