Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

PlayfulFriendlyIntelligentHigh energyEager to please

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is an energetic, friendly, and people-oriented dog. Bred to lure waterfowl by playing near the shore, it is curious, quick to learn, and eager to be part of whatever the household is doing. It usually gets along well with children and other dogs when it is socialized early, though its herding and chasing instincts can show up around cats and small pets. It tends to be a bit reserved with strangers at first.

Day to day, this breed needs more than a backyard visit. It wants real exercise, structured games like fetch and retrieving, and regular mental work such as scent games or simple training. Without enough outlet it can become restless or start inventing its own projects. Frequent brushing keeps its double coat in good shape, and it enjoys time around water.

Good for: Active families, dog sports, homes with a yard or water access

Size	medium
Weight	37–51 lb
Height	18–20 in
Exercise	about 60 min a day
Shedding	moderate
Origin	Canada

Before you choose a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

This is an active, mentally demanding dog, so be ready to commit to daily exercise and training from the start.

Living with a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Exercise

Plan for at least an hour of active exercise daily, including off-leash running, swimming, and retrieving games. Mental work like training or scent games helps as well.

Grooming

The double coat sheds moderately year-round and more heavily in seasonal blowouts. Brush two to three times a week, more during shedding season, and bathe only as needed.

Health

This breed can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and some inherited conditions. Ask your vet about screening and health testing from breeders.

Hip dysplasia
Progressive retinal atrophy
Addison's disease

Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.

The numbers for a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Feeding, adult

2.5–3.5 cups a day

About 1,059 kcal, roughly 20 lb of dry food a month at 37–51 lb. Start here and adjust to the bag and your vet. Portion calculator →

What a year costs

$1,900–$3,200

Food about $779, plus routine vet care, parasite preventives and gear. US averages; insurance and emergencies on top.

Weather

Watch above 75°F, stop at 85°F

Coat or short walks below 32°F. Comfortable in most weather: watch pavement heat above 85°F and add a coat below freezing if the coat is short.

LIVE · New York

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Walk index

Heat, pavement and UV for your dog.

Right now

Latest dog food recalls

Aunt Millie s Bakehouse Whole Grain White Hot Dog Buns 6" Sliced 2 OUNCE. 12 unlabeled 12CT PKGS per sale unit case, product code 7502. Net. Wt. 18lbs.
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Sep 13 · Undeclared sesame

Breadman Brioche products in plastic bags: Brioche Toast, 2 lb. (1 loaf/bag), Brioche Buns, 40oz (10 buns/bag), Brioche Sliders, 50oz (25 sliders/bag), Brioche Hot Dog, 40oz (10 buns/bag)
Breadbox Co. · May 16 · Undeclared Yellow No. 5

Our Family White Hot Dog Enriched Buns, 8 count 12oz. retail unit UPC 0-70253-75107-3
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Mar 21 · undeclared sesame

All recalls →

Questions owners ask

How much does a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever shed?

It sheds moderately year-round and heavily twice a year. Regular brushing two to three times a week keeps loose hair under control.

Can a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever live in an apartment?

It can, but only with a dedicated owner who provides long daily walks, play, and training. Without that outlet it may become bored and restless indoors.

Are Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers good with kids?

They are usually friendly and playful with children, especially when raised with them. Supervision is still wise, since the dog's energy can knock over small kids.