Full of energy, this dog is great for active households. They are sociable, friendly and affectionate and great for families and children. Lots of runs and swims are essential.
Their feathered orange/brown coat with a white-tipped tail and feet are not only deemed attractive to birds but to humans as well – you might find yourself constantly being stopped on walks as people admire your pet. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are highly active dogs so schedule in at least one daily run and an afternoon game of fetch. They thrive on activity and need to be kept engaged both physically and mentally; these dogs don’t suit a bookworm or sofa spud. They are the smallest of all retriever breeds and have a similar personality: outgoing, sweet, affectionate and hardworking. They are also highly intelligent and learn obedience training quickly. They can be quite strong-willed so consistent training is key. While super friendly and sociable in the family, they can be reserved around strangers.
Fun fact: A Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever lures
fowl to the waters’ edge by dancing in the shallow waters, before bounding
into the water to collect fallen birds. This dance is called tolling.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are good-natured and dependable but can be destructive when bored. They also tend to bark or whine when excited. Best suited to large yards, your dog will need space to run around. With a strong love for chewing and carrying things in their mouth, keep your closet cupboard closed or you might find chew marks in your new leather boots. They get along great with other pets, although they love chasing so it may not be so popular with your cat. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers shed moderately and have a waterproof coat that needs to be brushed regularly. Trim when needed.
Scheduled six-monthly health checks and visits to the vet are important to ensure your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. It’s important that together with your vet, a preventative healthcare program is determined and maintained based on the individual needs of your canine companion. Overall, they are a healthy breed with few reported issues. Some eye problems and hip dysplasia can occur.
Size
A medium-sized breed weighing 17-23kgs with an average height of 45-51cms.
Space
A large dwelling with yard space is ideal. They are not suited to small urban dwellings.
Energy Levels
They have high energy levels. A daily run, swim and lots of games will keep this dog happy.
Difficulty Of Training
They are intelligent dogs and will learn quickly.
Family suitability
Great family pets and loyal companions.
Suitability to other pets
If socialised from a young age, your dog will befriend other pets, although they may chase your cat silly.
Need for company
They have a high need for company and enjoy being by their human’s side at all times.
Hypoallergenic dog breed?
No
Coat and grooming needs
This breed is low maintenance and has a short medium coat in all shades of red or orange and white tips on their tail, feet and chest. Brush their coat weekly and trim the hair around their feet and ears occasionally.
Shedding
They shed moderately.
Tendency to bark
They have a low to moderate tendency to bark.