Golden Retriever
Gentle, patient and always good-natured, the Golden Retriever is one of the best family dogs, but it copes poorly with strong heat.
Golden Retriever vs Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Side by side
| Trait | Golden Retriever | Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Retrievers, flushing dogs and water dogs | Retrievers, flushing dogs and water dogs |
| Size | Large | Medium |
| Weight | 25–34 kg | 17–23 kg |
| Height at withers | 51–61 cm | 45–51 cm |
| Life expectancy | 10–12 years | 12–14 years |
| Energy | ||
| With children | ||
| With other dogs | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Heat tolerance | ||
| Apartment | Not recommended | Not recommended |
Key differences
- Heavier: Golden Retriever (about 29.5 kg vs 20 kg on average)
- Taller: Golden Retriever (about 56 cm vs 48 cm on average)
- Longer life expectancy: Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever (about 13 years vs 11 years on average)
- Sheds more: Golden Retriever (5/5 vs 3/5)
Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.
Which one is right for you?
A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.
- Apartment living
- Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
- Family with children
- Golden Retriever is the better fitBased on behaviour with children.
- First-time owner
- Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
- Hot climate
- Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is the better fitBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is the better fitBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The smallest retriever, the red 'Toller' is lively, clever and full of energy, with a unique hunting technique.