Goldendoodle vs Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Which dog breed is right for you?

Goldendoodle

Size
15–90 lbs, 13–24 in
Lifespan
10–15 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
High
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Friendly Intelligent Gentle Social

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 Goldendoodle

The Goldendoodle — a deliberate cross between the Golden Retriever and Standard Poodle — emerged in the 1990s as breeders sought to combine the Golden's gentle temperament with the Poodle's low-shedding coat. They range widely in size — Miniature (15–35 pounds), Medium (35–50 pounds), and Standard (50–90 pounds) — standing anywhere from 13 to 24 inches tall depending on the Poodle parent's size. Their coats vary from wavy to curly in shades of cream, gold, apricot, red, chocolate, and black, with texture depending on which parent's genes dominate.

Temperament & Personality

Goldendoodles typically inherit the best of both parent breeds — the Golden's gentle, people-loving nature combined with the Poodle's keen intelligence and playful spirit. They are outgoing, social dogs that get along beautifully with children, other pets, and strangers, making them popular therapy and emotional support dogs. Their enthusiasm for life and goofy antics make them endlessly entertaining family companions.

Pros

  • Low to moderate shedding — curlier coats are more suitable for allergy-sensitive households
  • Inherits intelligence from both parent breeds — highly trainable and responsive
  • Friendly, gentle temperament makes them excellent therapy and emotional support dogs
  • Available in multiple sizes to suit different living situations — from apartments to farms

Cons

  • Coat requires professional grooming every 6–8 weeks — annual grooming costs of $500–$1,200
  • No breed standard means unpredictable size, coat type, and temperament — especially in early generations
  • Can inherit health issues from both parent breeds — hip dysplasia, eye problems, and von Willebrand's
  • High demand has led to irresponsible breeding practices — finding a reputable breeder requires diligence

A Goldendoodle might be the perfect blend of brains and love for your family — search available dogs on Puplister.

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 Goldendoodle and a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?
The Goldendoodle is 15–90 lbs, 13–24 in sized while the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is 35–50 lbs, 17–21 in sized. They differ in size (15–90 lbs, 13–24 in vs 35–50 lbs, 17–21 in), lifespan (10–15 years vs 12–14 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Goldendoodle or Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?
Goldendoodle is generally good with kids. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Goldendoodle or Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?
The Goldendoodle has a lifespan of 10–15 years while the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has a lifespan of 12–14 years.

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