Breed matchup

Golden Retriever vs Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Interactive head-to-head—swap sides, filter traits, and see who edges each lifestyle score before you read the full guides.

Golden Retriever

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Golden Retriever

large · Scotland

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

medium · Canada

Head-to-head

Golden Retriever vs Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Tollers are fox-red compact retrievers with big personalities; Goldens are larger, usually softer family icons with heavier shedding.

large vs medium

Energy 4 vs 4

long vs medium

10-12 years · 12-14 years

Biggest differences

Weight

55-75 lbs

35-50 lbs

Height

21.5-24 inches

17-21 inches

Lifespan

10-12 years

12-14 years

Monthly cost*

$80–$150

$70–$130

*Typical ownership cost band estimate—not a quote.

Lifestyle scores

Tap a trait for context. Filter by what matters most to you.

Temperament

Typical breed leanings—individuals vary.

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the U. Overall, Golden Retrievers are described as friendly, intelligent, devoted, trustworthy. Trainability sits around 5/5 and bark tendency around 2/5, so consistent positive training usually pays off quickly.

Friendly

Intelligent

Devoted

Trustworthy

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Medium-sized retriever with a distinctive red coat. Overall, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are described as intelligent, energetic, loyal, trainable. Trainability sits around 5/5 and bark tendency around 3/5, so consistent positive training usually pays off quickly.

Intelligent

Energetic

Loyal

Trainable

Care side by side

Grooming, exercise, and training at a glance.

Golden Retriever

Needs at least 1 hour of vigorous exercise daily. Loves swimming and retrieving activities.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

High energy requiring daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Who should choose which?

Use this as a shortlist—then meet dogs and read full guides.

Choose Golden Retriever

Choose a Golden Retriever if you want a large dog with high energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit limited. Temperament leans friendly and intelligent.

Choose Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Choose a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever if you prefer medium size, high energy, kids fit limited, and apartment fit poor. Traits include intelligent and energetic.

Still deciding?

Take the lifestyle match quiz or open both breed guides for first-year costs, health screening, and adopter questions.

FAQs

What is the difference between a Golden Retriever and a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?

Tollers are fox-red compact retrievers with big personalities; Goldens are larger, usually softer family icons with heavier shedding.

Which is better for apartments, Golden Retriever or Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?

Golden Retriever is the stronger apartment candidate (2/5).

Which is better with kids, Golden Retriever or Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?

Golden Retriever scores higher with kids (5/5). Supervision still matters.

How do Golden Retriever and Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever compare on energy?

Golden Retriever: 4/5 (high). Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: 4/5 (high). Match the higher-energy breed only if you can meet exercise needs daily.

References

This comparison summarizes publicly available breed-standard and veterinary education sources. Always consult your veterinarian for individual care, and meet dogs in person before deciding.