Human orientation
High rating: loving in the family, reserved towards strangers. Behavior depends on upbringing.
THE PAW CATALOG
Nova Scotia Retriever
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History of the Nova Scotian Retriever breed
Origin: Canada
Bred as a versatile farm dog of mixed ancestry in Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia, where it was first called the "Little River Duck Dog." Pulled carts, grazed sheep, lured birds within shooting distance and brought prey. Some believe that the breed was influenced by the Kooikerhondje.
The Nova Scotia Retriever is the smallest of the retrievers (45-51 cm, 17-23 kg) with a water-repellent red to orange double coat, usually with white markings. Smart, playful and easy to learn; loves water Requires daily activity and mental tasks.
Sizeaverage
OriginCanada
Life is nearby
Suitable for active families who love water, walks and sports. It is not suitable for a sedentary life.
Walks
Considerable daily activity is required: approximately 40 minutes of movement and swimming.
Training
Very smart and easy to learn, but also playful. A lot of classes are required, but they are short and varied, with rewards.
Care
The wool is combed weekly. The feathers on the ears are sometimes trimmed so that they do not stray; ears are examined after swimming. Claws are trimmed, teeth are cleaned.
Children
Family-friendly, usually well suited to families with children. Energetic games under supervision.
Other animals
Usually gets along well with other dogs. The retriever's hunting instinct remains, so birds and small animals are under control.
Peculiarities of the breed
Estimates help compare breeds. For zooaggression, 5/5 means less tendency to aggression towards dogs. The behavior and health of a particular dog depend on many factors.
Training
Very high score: intelligent and easy to learn.
Zooaggression
Average-high score: usually gets along with dogs, hunting instinct needs control.
Health and reproductive risks
In the British cohort, the median lifespan of the breed was 13.2 years; small sample: 47 deaths. Among the described breed risks: autoimmune diseases; examination of the parents is confirmed with the veterinarian.
Ease of care
Average score: Medium length coat, weekly brushing and ear care required.
Health
Autoimmune diseases
Autoimmune diseases are conditions when the immune system acts against its own tissues. Late-onset immune-mediated disorders have been described in the breed, as in many others. Suspicion of them (lethargy, skin changes, joint damage) is referred to a veterinarian. Tests are available for hereditary hypothyroidism, PRA-cd and eye circle anomaly.
Photo of the breed
