Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever vs German Shepherd
Discover the differences between Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever and German Shepherd to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Energetic, intelligent, and affectionate, this breed thrives on activity and close companionship. Compact yet powerful, it excels in both outdoor adventures and family life.
German Shepherd
Confident, loyal, and highly intelligent, this breed thrives as both a devoted family companion and a reliable working partner. Always alert and eager to learn, it adapts to many roles with ease.
Quick comparison
Medium
20–23 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
12–14 years
17–20 kg
High energy
Large
30–40 kg
Double coat, dense undercoat
9–13 years
22–32 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Warm and sociable with people and dogs
Quick learner, responds well to training
Highly active, needs ample daily exercise
Loves games, always ready for playtime
Adjusts well to different routines and settings
German Shepherd
Warm with family, reserved with strangers
Quick learner, highly trainable and alert
Needs regular activity and vigorous exercise
Enjoys games, interactive and engaging
Adjusts well to new situations and environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Good potential
Intelligent but needs consistent training and exercise, which may be challenging for beginners
Not ideal
Needs ample space and regular activity, making apartments less suitable
Perfect fit
Thrives in active homes with frequent exercise and mental stimulation
Very suitable
Friendly and playful with children, usually gentle and tolerant
Highly compatible
Generally sociable with other dogs and pets if socialized early
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop separation issues
German Shepherd
Challenging for beginners
Needs experienced, consistent training and socialization
Not ideal
Needs space and frequent exercise to prevent boredom
Perfect fit
Thrives with active owners who can provide daily physical and mental challenges
Highly suitable
Loyal and protective, can be gentle and patient with proper socialization
Usually compatible
Can get along with other pets if raised together and well socialized
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop behavioral issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands
- Strong retrieving instinct and drive
- Energetic and playful with families
- Generally friendly with other dogs
- Adaptable to various outdoor activities
German Shepherd
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn tasks
- Strong loyalty to family members
- Excellent working and service dog abilities
- Protective instincts make them good guardians
- Adaptable to various training activities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
- Needs extensive daily physical exercise
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Can be wary of strangers at first
- Requires regular mental stimulation and tasks
- Moderate shedding and regular grooming needed
German Shepherd
- Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia
- High exercise needs require daily activity
- Can develop separation anxiety if left alone
- May be wary of strangers without socialization
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires frequent grooming
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