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

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is 35–50 lbs, 17–21 in sized while the Weimaraner is 55–90 lbs, 23–27 in sized. They differ in size (35–50 lbs, 17–21 in vs 55–90 lbs, 23–27 in), lifespan (12–14 years vs 10–13 years), and care requirements.

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

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

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

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has a lifespan of 12–14 years while the Weimaraner has a lifespan of 10–13 years.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever vs Weimaraner — Breed Comparison

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.

About the Weimaraner

The Weimaraner was developed in the early 19th century at the court of Weimar in Germany, where nobles bred these dogs to hunt large game — boar, bear, and deer — before transitioning them to bird dog duties as large game became scarce. These striking, athletic dogs stand 23 to 27 inches tall and weigh 55 to 90 pounds, with a sleek, powerful build designed for speed and endurance. Their distinctive short, smooth coat comes in shades of mouse-gray to silver-gray — earning them the nickname "Gray Ghost" — complemented by striking amber or blue-gray eyes.

Temperament & Personality

Weimaraners are fearless, friendly, and intensely devoted to their families — they crave human companionship and do not do well as kennel or outdoor-only dogs. They are energetic and playful with children, generally sociable with other dogs, and possess an intelligence that demands both physical and mental outlets. Without adequate exercise and attention, Weimaraners become anxious, destructive, and can develop severe behavioral problems.

Pros

Strikingly beautiful with an unmistakable silver-gray appearance
Versatile sporting dog — excellent for hunting, running, and competitive events
Highly intelligent and trainable with consistent, positive methods
Short coat requires minimal grooming and sheds only moderately

Cons

Extreme separation anxiety — one of the most prone breeds to this condition
Requires intense daily exercise — 2 or more hours of vigorous activity is typical
Prone to bloat (gastric torsion), hip dysplasia, and hyperuricosuria
Can be destructive on a grand scale when bored or anxious — has been known to eat through drywall

The "Gray Ghost" is a magnificent companion for the active and committed — discover Weimaraners on Puplister.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever vs Weimaraner