Breed Library
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Size Chart
How big do Tollers get? From puppy to adult, this guide covers weight and height by age, breed standard dimensions, body condition scoring, and how the smallest retriever compares to Goldens and Labs.
- Males: 18 - 21 in / 35 - 50 lbs
- Females: 17 - 20 in / 35 - 44 lbs
- Smallest AKC retriever
Adult size overview
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is the smallest of the AKC retriever breeds. Males typically stand 18 to 21 inches at the shoulder and weigh 35 to 50 pounds. Females are slightly smaller at 17 to 20 inches and 35 to 44 pounds.
Individual dogs may fall outside these ranges while still being healthy. Focus on body condition, steady growth during puppyhood, and proportionality rather than hitting an exact number on the scale.
Breed standard notes
- Compact, powerful, medium-sized retriever
- Deep chest with well-sprung ribs
- Balanced proportion; never leggy or coarse
- Slightly longer than tall
Puppy weight chart by age
Ranges represent typical male and female Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers. Males tend toward the higher end and females toward the lower end. Individual variation is normal; steady, consistent growth matters more than hitting an exact weight.
Height chart by age
Height is measured at the shoulder (withers). Most Tollers reach their full height by 12 months and continue to fill out through 18 months.
Growth rate
Toller puppies grow quickly. Most reach their full height by 10 to 12 months and continue to fill out—gaining muscle and depth of chest—through 18 months and sometimes up to 2 years.
Rapid growth in the first six months makes proper nutrition and appropriate exercise especially important. Avoid high-impact or repetitive activities that could stress developing joints until growth plates close around 12 to 18 months.
Growth milestones
- ~50% of adult height by 4 months
- ~75% of adult height by 6 months
- Full height by 10 - 12 months
- Fills out through 18 months
- Growth plates close by 12 - 18 months
How to tell if your Toller is the right weight
Numbers alone do not define a healthy weight. Body condition scoring matters more. You should be able to feel your dog's ribs with light pressure, see a defined waist when viewed from above, and observe a tucked abdomen when viewed from the side.
Overweight Tollers are common. Extra weight strains joints and reduces athletic performance. If ribs are hard to feel or the waist disappears, reduce portions and increase activity. If ribs are visible without pressing, the dog may be underweight.
Healthy weight signs
- Ribs palpable with light pressure
- Visible waist from above
- Tucked abdomen from the side
- Good energy and stamina
- Shiny coat and clear eyes
Size compared to other retrievers
The Toller is notably smaller than the Golden and Labrador Retriever. This compact size suits their original role: working from small boats and navigating dense marshy cover.
Related resources
Continue exploring Toller breed and care topics.
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The cornerstone resource for temperament, exercise, training, grooming, and health across every life stage.
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