Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever vs Australian Shepherd
Size Category
Small
Ideal For
Families, Multi-pet Homes
Maintenance Level
High
Size Category
Small
Ideal For
Families, First-time Owners
Maintenance Level
High
Decision Helper
Quick Decision Guide
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever might be better if you:
- Want a dog great with children
- Have other pets at home
- Want an easily trainable dog
- Lead an active lifestyle
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
- Live in an apartment or prefer quiet dogs
- Want a smaller dog that's easy to carry
Australian Shepherd might be better if you:
- Want a dog great with children
- Want an easily trainable dog
- Lead an active lifestyle
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
- Want a smaller dog that's easy to carry
Find Your Match
Quick Match Quiz
Question 1 of 7
What best describes your lifestyle?
Breed Overview
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, often referred to as the Toller, is a medium-sized, energetic dog breed known for its intelligence and playful nature. They have a distinctive, water-repellent double coat that is typically a shade of orange or red, often with white markings. These dogs are known for their agility, keen sense of smell, and ability to toll or lure waterfowl within shooting range. Their friendly disposition makes them excellent family pets, and they thrive on human interaction. Tollers are highly trainable, eager to please, and require regular exercise to channel their energy positively. They are known for their playful antics, sometimes described as clownish, which adds to their appeal as companions.
Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd, often known as the 'Aussie,' is a highly intelligent and energetic herding dog known for its agility, strength, and versatility. They have a medium-sized, well-proportioned body with a distinctive coat that can be merle, solid, or a combination of both. Their eyes can be blue, brown, or even one of each, adding to their unique appearance. Aussies are known for their loyalty, trainability, and protective instincts, making them excellent companions and working dogs. They thrive in active environments and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
Key Statistics
Life Expectancy
Height (Male)
Weight (Male)
Breed Characteristics
Good with Children
Excellent with children
Excellent with children
Good with Other Dogs
Very social with other dogs
Generally friendly with other dogs
Shedding
Moderate shedding level
Moderate shedding level
Grooming Needs
Low grooming needs
Low grooming needs
Trainability
Highly trainable
Highly trainable
Energy Level
Very energetic breed
Very energetic breed
Barking Tendency
Minimal barking tendency
Moderate barking tendency
Care Requirements
Care Requirements
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Exercise Needs
Provide a balanced diet with high-quality dog food tailored to their age and activity level.
Grooming
Regular grooming to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet with high-quality dog food tailored to their age and activity level.
Health Care
Regular grooming to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Australian Shepherd
Exercise Needs
Provide a balanced diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level.
Grooming
Brush coat at least 2-3 times a week to reduce shedding and matting.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level.
Health Care
Regularly check and clean ears to prevent infections.
Exercise Needs
Provide a balanced diet with high-quality dog food tailored to their age and activity level.
Exercise Needs
Provide a balanced diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level.
Grooming
Regular grooming to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Grooming
Brush coat at least 2-3 times a week to reduce shedding and matting.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet with high-quality dog food tailored to their age and activity level.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level.
Health Care
Regular grooming to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Health Care
Regularly check and clean ears to prevent infections.
Additional Care Notes
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
- •Routine check-ups with a veterinarian for vaccinations and health monitoring.
Australian Shepherd
- •Ensure access to fresh water at all times.
Training & Exercise
Training & Exercise Guide
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers require consistent and positive reinforcement training methods. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. Socialization is crucial, so expose them to various environments, people, and other animals. Short, engaging training sessions work best due to their energetic nature. Use treats and praise to motivate them, and ensure training is fun to keep their interest.
Training Challenges
- •stubbornness
- •high energy levels
- •distraction during training
- •tendency to chase small animals
- •independence in decision making
Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds require early socialization and obedience training to develop into well-rounded companions. Basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down are essential. Positive reinforcement methods, including treats and praise, work best with this intelligent breed. Consistency and patience are crucial, as they thrive on structure and routine.
Training Challenges
- •High energy levels leading to hyperactivity if not exercised enough
- •Strong herding instincts may cause them to chase after people or other animals
- •Stubbornness or distraction during training sessions
- •Separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods
- •Tendency to bark excessively if not properly trained
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers require consistent and positive reinforcement training methods. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. Socialization is crucial, so expose them to various environments, people, and other animals. Short, engaging training sessions work best due to their energetic nature. Use treats and praise to motivate them, and ensure training is fun to keep their interest.
Training Challenges
- •stubbornness
- •high energy levels
- •distraction during training
- •tendency to chase small animals
- •independence in decision making
Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds require early socialization and obedience training to develop into well-rounded companions. Basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down are essential. Positive reinforcement methods, including treats and praise, work best with this intelligent breed. Consistency and patience are crucial, as they thrive on structure and routine.
Training Challenges
- •High energy levels leading to hyperactivity if not exercised enough
- •Strong herding instincts may cause them to chase after people or other animals
- •Stubbornness or distraction during training sessions
- •Separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods
- •Tendency to bark excessively if not properly trained
Training Resources
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Training Guide
Australian Shepherd Training Guide
Find Breeders
Find Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Breeders
Find Australian Shepherd Breeders
Local Search Tips
When looking for a reputable breeder in your area, consider these approaches:
- 1.
Contact local veterinarians for breeder recommendations - They often know reputable breeders who prioritize health testing and proper care.
- 2.
Join breed-specific clubs in your area - These communities can provide valuable connections and insights about responsible breeders.
- 3.
Attend local dog shows to meet breeders - This gives you the opportunity to see their dogs and discuss breeding practices in person.