Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Cost
Last Updated on December 27, 2023
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers, also known as the Novie for short and often referred to by their full name Little River Duck Dogs, are a speedy breed of sporting dog that is recognized by AKC.
With an agile body smaller than most breeds at this size but with plenty of power behind them, these dogs have been bred over time to run tirelessly. They always wag their tail enthusiastically while they play in the water or just frolic around.
The Duck Dog is a type of hunting dog developed in the early 19th century. They were bred to run, jump and play along the shoreline with their energetic temperament, scaring off ducks into the air for hunters to hit. Once hit, they would then be sent out again by their owner on retrieval duty.
Looking for a different hunting breed? You might also like our articles about the cost of Dogo Argentino, Viszla Dog, or Greyhound Dog.
Just how much will a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever cost?
How much will you spend on a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever? The average price for one dog from this breed will depend on many factors, including the breeder you choose and where they are located. From our research, those looking to buy one should be prepared to spend anywhere from as little as $1,300 for an unregistered puppy or up to around $2,400 if it comes with high-quality features like being AKC registered.
The AKC Marketplace is a great place to find puppies for sale but not every breeder has these dogs in stock. The breeders from this marketplace have the necessary paperwork and can provide DNA tests, microchips, vaccinations as well as other health clearances on both parents of your new puppy. The price range starts at $1,900-$2,300 with an average cost being roughly $2,000 per dog if you are looking for some championship bloodlines.
The price of a dog will vary depending on the breeder. For example, DogBreedPlus.com notes that good breeders charge about $1,500 for their dogs because they are rare to find. However, you can get lucky at either an animal shelter ($50-400) or a rescue center (varies by region), but be prepared to adopt an older dog instead of a puppy if so.
Coat | A dense, medium, and water-repellent double coat of a medium length. |
Energy | Extremely active as it was originally bred to hunt and owners claim the dog “never” tires out. They love to play fetch with any sort of retrieving tool, diving off docks or playing frisbee. |
Exercise | Needs about 30 to 60 minutes a day of outdoor time and is not suited for smaller living quarters. |
Food Consumption | 2.5 cups a day ($1.25-$1.50/day) |
Good with children and other pets? | As long as introduced at a younger age, they do quite well but are very wary of strangers. Be forewarned with cats, however as they can have a strong prey drive. Your results will vary. |
Grooming | Very low in maintenance, requiring occasional trimming and stripping as they will blow their coat seasonally. |
Height | 17 to 22 inches in height, with females weighing 20% less. |
Life Expectancy | 11 to 14 years |
Origin | Canada |
Personality | Outgoing, smart, affectionate, and is eager to please its owner. |
Training | Not ideal for the first-time dog owner as you will need a lot of patience and discipline. |
Weight | 35 to 55 pounds, depending on the gender. |
How does this breed look like?
Medium in size, this energetic dog never seems to tire. The eyes are almond in shape and set apart with common eye colors including hazel, amber, and brown that match the coat color well.
The nose can either be black or match the coat color.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are known for their amazing coats. This double coat, resistant to water and cold temps alike, is medium in length and soft to the touch. Mainly straight with a wavy look on the end of their back and feathery-look around eyes, legs, and tails there will be different types throughout this breed’s lifetime depending on what season it is when they’re still growing up! To keep warm during winter months the fur that grows down from their throat becomes denser.
Coat colors can range from a fiery red-gold tinge to a darker copper-like color, with most having white marks on the head, feet, chest, and/or tip of the tail.
Any tips to know about?
The breed is known to be susceptible to Addison’s disease, progressive retinal atrophy, deafness, and hip dysplasia. For this reason, you should ask for an OFA, CERF (Canine Eye Registry Foundation), and a hearing test before adopting from any breeder.
This dog isn’t considered hypoallergenic – so don’t go looking into getting one if you have severe allergic reactions to pets in general.
It isn’t much of a drooler in general, at least according to PetBreeds.
The American Kennel Club recognized this breed in 2013. This has led to get recognized also by organizations like The Australian National Kennel Council, Canadian Kennel Club, Fédération Cynologique Internationale and more.
Despite their intimidating bark, these sweet dogs are not designed as guard animals. They often have the personality of a Golden Retriever or Lab and love to play around with kids.
Some dogs can get you in trouble. If they’re excited, their voice may sound like an injured scream that is high-pitched and loud enough to annoy someone who hears it for the first time.
If you’re looking for a dog that will never stop pulling the leash, this is your breed. With proper training and patience, these dogs can be excellent hunting companions or just loyal family members, depending on what you will need from them.
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