Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever and Golden Retriever 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.
Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
Quick comparison
Medium
20–23 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
12–14 years
17–20 kg
High energy
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 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
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
Golden Retriever
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
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation 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
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
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
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
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