American Pit Bull Terrier vs Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Which dog breed is right for you?

American Pit Bull Terrier

Size
30–65 lbs, 17–21 in
Lifespan
12–16 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
No
Affectionate Energetic Confident Loyal

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Size
35–50 lbs, 17–21 in
Lifespan
12–14 years
Exercise
Very High
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Intelligent Energetic Affectionate Outgoing

About the American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier traces its roots to 19th-century England, where Bulldogs and Terriers were crossed to create a dog combining strength with agility. Standing 17–21 inches tall and weighing 30–60 pounds, the APBT is a medium-sized, solidly built dog with a broad chest and well-defined musculature. Their short, glossy coat comes in virtually every color and pattern — including blue, red, brindle, and merle — and is exceptionally easy to maintain.

Temperament & Personality

Despite their often-misunderstood reputation, American Pit Bull Terriers are among the most people-oriented breeds — they are affectionate, eager to please, and frequently described as "nanny dogs" for their gentleness with children. They are intelligent, loyal, and enthusiastic about training when given positive reinforcement. However, some individuals may exhibit dog-selectivity, and responsible ownership includes understanding their terrier-driven tenacity.

Pros

  • Extremely affectionate and loyal — they bond deeply with every family member
  • Highly trainable and eager to please, excelling in obedience and nosework
  • Low grooming needs with their short, easy-care coat
  • Athletic and energetic — outstanding companion for active lifestyles

Cons

  • Subject to breed-specific legislation and housing restrictions in many areas
  • May develop dog-selectivity, requiring careful management around other dogs
  • Strong and powerful — not ideal for physically frail owners
  • Prone to skin allergies, hip dysplasia, and congenital heart disease

These loving, misunderstood dogs deserve wonderful homes — browse adoptable Pit Bull Terriers on Puplister today.

About the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever — often called the "Toller" — was developed in the early 19th century in Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia, as the only retriever bred specifically to lure waterfowl within gunshot range. They are the smallest of the retriever breeds, standing 17 to 21 inches and weighing 35 to 50 pounds. Their medium-length, water-repellent double coat ranges from golden red to dark coppery red, usually with white markings on the chest, feet, and tail tip.

Temperament & Personality

Tollers are intelligent, outgoing, and tireless — possessing a unique playful style that originally attracted curious ducks to shore. They are affectionate and patient with children, and their moderate size makes them manageable for active families. Tollers can be reserved with strangers and sometimes emit a distinctive high-pitched scream of excitement that surprises first-time owners.

Pros

  • Versatile sporting dog excelling in agility, obedience, and dock diving
  • Smaller and more manageable than other retriever breeds
  • Highly intelligent and food-motivated, making training rewarding
  • Strong swimming ability with natural retrieving instincts

Cons

  • Extremely high exercise demands — needs 60 to 90 minutes of vigorous activity daily
  • Prone to Addison's disease and immune-mediated conditions at higher rates than most breeds
  • Can become destructive and neurotic without adequate mental stimulation
  • Seasonal shedding is significant despite the moderate coat length

Looking for an energetic, uniquely skilled retriever? Find Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers ready for adoption on Puplister.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a American Pit Bull Terrier and a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?
The American Pit Bull Terrier is 30–65 lbs, 17–21 in sized while the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is 35–50 lbs, 17–21 in sized. They differ in size (30–65 lbs, 17–21 in vs 35–50 lbs, 17–21 in), lifespan (12–16 years vs 12–14 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, American Pit Bull Terrier or Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?
American Pit Bull Terrier is generally good with kids. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, American Pit Bull Terrier or Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?
The American Pit Bull Terrier has a lifespan of 12–16 years while the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has a lifespan of 12–14 years.

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