Sporting Dogs
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Reviewed by the Hushku editorial team · Updated 2026-05-19
Size
Large
Life Span
10 to 14 years
Weight
35 to 50 pounds
Height
17 inches to 21 inches tall at the shoulder
Breed Group
Sporting Dogs
Adaptability
Friendliness
Trainability
Energy
Health
Intelligence
About the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a large sporting dogs known for its outgoing nature and highly intelligent mind. Well-suited to apartment living, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is manageable for most owners. Typically standing 17 inches to 21 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 35 to 50 pounds, this breed has a life expectancy of 10 to 14 years, making it a devoted companion for the right family.
Originally classified within the Sporting Dogs group, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever brings a distinct combination of traits that sets it apart. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a high-energy breed that thrives with plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Deeply affectionate, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever loves being close to its people and forms strong bonds with every member of the household.
Temperament
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has a famously warm and sociable temperament that makes it responsive to its environment without being overly sensitive. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is famously gentle and patient with children of all ages, making it a wonderful family dog. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever tends to love the company of other dogs and typically does well in multi-pet households.
Friendly and open with new people, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever rarely meets a stranger it doesn't like. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever can be vocal and will readily alert you to visitors or unusual activity. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has moderate wanderlust — a secure garden is always recommended. A strong prey drive means the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever should be kept on a lead around wildlife and small pets.
Health & Lifespan
With a life expectancy of 10 to 14 years, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a medium-lived breed. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is considered a robust, healthy breed with fewer inherited conditions than many pedigrees.
Common health areas to discuss with your vet for sporting dogs breeds like the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever include joint health, dental hygiene, and routine parasite prevention. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever can be prone to weight gain. Measure meals carefully, limit treats, and ensure adequate daily exercise to keep them at a healthy weight. Pet insurance is strongly recommended from puppyhood — it provides peace of mind and helps manage unexpected veterinary costs throughout your Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever's life.
Is this breed right for you?
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a good fit for a wide range of owners who can provide an active lifestyle with plenty of outdoor time. Compact living spaces are no problem for this breed.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever handles alone time well and is less likely to develop separation anxiety. This breed prefers warmer climates and should be protected from extreme cold. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever tolerates heat well, though fresh water and shade should always be available.
In summary, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a sociable and loving sporting dogs that is relatively easy to integrate into family life. Do thorough research, meet the breed in person if possible, and connect with a reputable breeder or rescue before bringing a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever home.
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