How much does a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever puppy cost?
From reputable breeders, expect to pay between $2,000 and $4,000 for a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrieverpuppy in the US — with an average of about $3,000. Location, lineage, and breeder reputation push prices up or down.

Why Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever puppies cost what they do
You're paying for a lot more than just the puppy when you bring home a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. These dogs are rare—ranked 83rd out of 197 breeds by the AKC—which means supply is limited, but demand from active families and hunters keeps prices steady. Responsible breeders aren't cranking out litters. They’re doing it right. That means health testing every parent for progressive retinal atrophy, Collie eye anomaly, Addison's disease, and immune-mediated disorders. Those tests aren't cheap. Running a full panel on one dog can cost $500 or more, and breeders eat that cost long before a single puppy is born. Tollers also don’t litter easily—average litter sizes are modest, and quality breeding stock is hard to come by. Combine that with the fact they're not hypoallergenic and don’t breed frequently, and you’ve got economics working against low prices. If you see a Toller puppy under $1,500, be suspicious. That likely means skipped health tests, puppy mill origins, or backyard breeding. You could end up with vet bills in the thousands treating avoidable genetic conditions. The $2,000 to $4,000 price tag isn’t greed—it’s the real cost of raising a healthy, well-tempered dog from a breed that demands careful stewardship.
What moves the price
Budget $3,300–$9,100 for year one
Over the 13-year average lifespan of a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, including purchase, food, vet care, insurance, grooming, and supplies.
Not sure which breed fits your life?
Answer five questions about your home, your schedule, and your tolerance for shedding. We’ll match you to your top three breeds from over 200.