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

The Labrador Retriever is 55–80 lbs, 21–25 in sized while the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is 35–50 lbs, 17–21 in sized. They differ in size (55–80 lbs, 21–25 in vs 35–50 lbs, 17–21 in), lifespan (10–12 years vs 12–14 years), and care requirements.

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

Labrador Retriever is generally good with kids. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Labrador Retriever or Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?

The Labrador Retriever has a lifespan of 10–12 years while the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has a lifespan of 12–14 years.

Labrador Retriever vs Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever — Breed Comparison

About the Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever has been America's most popular dog breed for over three decades — and for good reason. Originally bred in Newfoundland, Canada, during the early 19th century to help fishermen haul nets and retrieve catch from the icy North Atlantic, the breed was refined in England into the versatile sporting dog we know today. Labs stand 21.5–24.5 inches tall and weigh 55–80 pounds, with a short, dense, water-resistant double coat in three recognized colors: black, yellow (ranging from fox-red to pale cream), and chocolate.

Temperament & Personality

Labrador Retrievers are friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited — they greet nearly every person, dog, and situation with unbridled enthusiasm and a wagging tail. They are exceptionally patient and gentle with children, making them one of the most trusted family dogs in the world. Labs are also remarkably intelligent and eager to please, which is why they dominate as guide dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, therapy dogs, and detection dogs across dozens of working disciplines.

Pros

Outstanding family dog — patient, gentle, and naturally good with children of all ages
Highly trainable and eager to please — consistently ranks among the most obedient breeds
Versatile and adaptable — equally at home on the couch, in the field, or in the water
Friendly and social temperament — gets along well with other dogs, cats, and strangers

Cons

Heavy shedding year-round with major seasonal blowouts — not suited for allergy sufferers
Prone to obesity — Labs are notoriously food-motivated and will eat anything not locked away
High energy in the first 2–3 years — requires substantial daily exercise to prevent destructive behavior
Susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia, exercise-induced collapse, and progressive retinal atrophy

There's a reason the Lab is the world's favorite dog — discover adoptable Labrador Retrievers 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.

Labrador Retriever vs Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever