✓ Verified · Reviewed datavaries by registry
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Sporting breed from Nova Scotia, Canada
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a medium-sized sporting dog from Nova Scotia, Canada. It is the smallest of the retriever breeds, with a distinctive medium-length red coat often marked with white. Known for being intelligent, energetic, playful, outgoing, alert, and affectionate, this breed was developed to lure and retrieve waterfowl. Its energy level is rated 5 out of 5, and it scores 4 out of 5 for trainability. Grooming needs are moderate (3/5), and shedding is high (4/5). The breed is generally well-suited to children (4/5) and other dogs (4/5), but less ideal for apartment living (2/5).
Quick facts
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupSporting
OriginNova Scotia, Canada
Lifespan12–14 years
Male weight16–23 kilogram
Female weight16–23 kilogram
Male height46–53 centimetre
Female height46–53 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever originated in Nova Scotia, Canada, specifically in the Little River Harbour area of Yarmouth County. It was developed in the early 19th century to 'toll' (lure) ducks within gunshot range by playing along the shoreline, then retrieve shot birds. The breed's history is tied to this unique hunting technique, which relies on the dog's playful behavior to attract waterfowl. Recognition status varies by registry; for example, the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 2003. However, other registries may have different recognition dates or statuses. The breed's development and early history are not fully documented, and some details remain uncertain.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
16–23 kilogramAdult weight46–53 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesMediumCoat colorsRed, WhiteRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Intelligentenergeticplayfuloutgoingalertaffectionate
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Moderate compared with other breeds
Higher shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 5
- Higher shedding can require frequent coat and home maintenance.Supported by sheddingScore: 4
Similar breeds
Continue comparing
Related comparisons
Compare this breed
Growth chart
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight16–23 kilogramAdult female weight16–23 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?
Based on modelled estimates, adult males and females typically weigh between 16 and 23 kg and stand 46 to 53 cm tall at the shoulder. The estimated lifespan is 12 to 14 years. These figures are estimates and individual dogs may vary.
What is the temperament of this breed?
The breed is described as intelligent, energetic, playful, outgoing, alert, and affectionate. However, individual temperaments can vary, and not every dog will display all these traits consistently.
How much exercise does a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever need?
This breed has a high energy level (rated 5 out of 5) and requires substantial daily exercise. Activities like running, swimming, or interactive play are recommended to meet its needs.
What are the grooming requirements?
Grooming needs are moderate (rated 3 out of 5). The medium-length coat requires regular brushing to manage shedding, which is high (rated 4 out of 5). Occasional baths and routine nail trimming are also needed.
Is this breed suitable for families with children or other dogs?
The breed scores 4 out of 5 for child suitability and 4 out of 5 for dog compatibility, suggesting it generally gets along well with children and other dogs. However, individual supervision and proper socialization are always important.
Can a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is rated 2 out of 5, indicating that this breed is not ideal for apartment living due to its high energy and need for space. A home with a yard is preferable.
Where does this breed originate from?
The breed originates from Nova Scotia, Canada, specifically the Little River Harbour area of Yarmouth County. It was developed in the early 19th century for tolling and retrieving waterfowl.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.