Best Food for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers

By PetEssentialist Editorial · Updated July 2026

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Our top pick is Purina Pro Plan Pro Plan Sport Active 30/20 Chicken & Rice Formula — best for High-energy Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers. Why it wins: Supports high energy level.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers require a diet that matches their high energy level and supports their joint health. With a medium size and a weight range of 35-50 lbs, they need a balanced calorie intake to maintain a healthy weight. Their high metabolism and energetic nature make them prone to weight gain if overfed, while their sensitive stomachs demand easily digestible ingredients. A well-suited food should address these specific needs, providing the necessary nutrients for optimal health and performance. The breed's common health issues, such as hip dysplasia and Addison's disease, also play a crucial role in selecting the right food. A formula that includes joint support and easily digestible ingredients can help mitigate these issues. Additionally, the food should be rich in high-quality protein sources to support muscle growth and maintenance. When selecting the best food for a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, it's essential to consider their unique characteristics and needs. By choosing a food that addresses their energy requirements, joint health, and sensitive stomach, owners can help ensure their dog leads a happy and healthy life.

What to look for

Calorie Density

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers need a food with balanced calorie density to match their high energy level. A formula with the right balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates will help maintain their weight and support their energetic lifestyle. Look for a food with a calorie density that meets their specific needs, taking into account their age, size, and activity level.

Joint Support

The breed's predisposition to hip dysplasia makes joint support a crucial factor in selecting the right food. Look for a formula that includes glucosamine and chondroitin, which can help maintain healthy joints and mitigate the risk of hip dysplasia.

Digestibility

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers have sensitive stomachs, so it's essential to choose a food that is easily digestible. Look for a formula with prebiotic fiber, which can help support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and reduce the risk of digestive issues.

Protein Sources

High-quality protein sources are essential for supporting muscle growth and maintenance in Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers. Look for a food that includes real chicken, salmon, or other named protein sources as the first ingredient.

Kibble Size

The kibble size should match the breed's medium size, ensuring that the food is easy to eat and digest. A smaller kibble size can help reduce the risk of choking and make mealtime more comfortable for the dog.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	Purina Pro Plan Pro Plan Sport Active 30/20 Chicken & Rice Formula	High-energy Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers
2	Hill's Science Diet Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food	Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers prone to joint issues
3	Hill's Science Diet Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken & Barley	Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers with sensitive stomachs
4	Royal Canin Breed-Specific Dry Dog Food	Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers with specific dietary needs
5	Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Chicken & Brown Rice	Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers with high energy levels

Purina Pro Plan Pro Plan Sport Active 30/20 Chicken & Rice Formula

Best for High-energy Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers

This formula provides a balanced mix of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to support the breed's high energy level. The inclusion of glucosamine and EPA helps maintain healthy joints, while the real chicken as the first ingredient provides high-quality protein.

✓ Supports high energy level
✓ Includes joint support
✓ High-quality protein sources

✕ May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs

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Hill's Science Diet Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food

Best for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers prone to joint issues

This formula is specifically designed for large breeds, providing precise protein and fat levels to support healthy weight and joint health. The inclusion of glucosamine and chondroitin helps maintain healthy joints.

✓ Supports joint health
✓ Precise protein and fat levels
✓ No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives

✕ May not provide enough energy for highly active dogs

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Hill's Science Diet Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken & Barley

Best for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers with sensitive stomachs

This formula is designed for dogs with sensitive stomachs, providing easily digestible ingredients and prebiotic fiber to support gut health. The inclusion of vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids helps support skin and coat health.

✓ Easily digestible ingredients
✓ Supports gut health
✓ Helps maintain healthy skin and coat

✕ May not provide enough energy for highly active dogs

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Royal Canin Breed-Specific Dry Dog Food

Best for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers with specific dietary needs

This formula is specifically designed for the breed, providing tailored macronutrient ratios and targeted health support. The breed-specific kibble shape and size help reduce the risk of choking and make mealtime more comfortable.

✓ Tailored macronutrient ratios
✓ Targeted health support
✓ Breed-specific kibble shape and size

✕ May be more expensive than other options

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Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Chicken & Brown Rice

Best for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers with high energy levels

This formula provides a balanced mix of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to support the breed's high energy level. The inclusion of LifeSource Bits with antioxidants helps support overall health and well-being.

✓ Supports high energy level
✓ Includes LifeSource Bits with antioxidants
✓ No poultry by-product meals

✕ May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs

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Frequently asked questions

What is the best food for a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever puppy?

Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, so it's essential to choose a food specifically designed for puppies. Look for a formula that includes high-quality protein sources, such as chicken or salmon, and a balanced mix of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to support growth and development.

Can I feed my Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever a grain-free diet?

While some dogs may thrive on grain-free diets, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to your dog's diet. Grain-free diets can be beneficial for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, but they may not provide the necessary nutrients for optimal health.

How often should I feed my Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?

The frequency of feeding depends on the dog's age, size, and activity level. Puppies typically require more frequent feeding than adult dogs, while highly active dogs may require more calories to support their energy needs. Consult with a veterinarian to determine the best feeding schedule for your dog.

Can I mix different types of food for my Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?

It's generally not recommended to mix different types of food, as this can cause digestive upset and make it difficult to determine the dog's nutritional needs. If you're considering switching foods, it's best to do so gradually and under the guidance of a veterinarian.

What are the most common health issues in Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers, and how can food help?

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are prone to hip dysplasia, Addison's disease, and other health issues. Food can play a crucial role in supporting joint health, digestive health, and overall well-being. Look for a formula that includes joint support, easily digestible ingredients, and high-quality protein sources to help mitigate these issues.

When choosing the best food for your Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, consider their high energy level, joint health, and sensitive stomach. Look for a formula that provides balanced calorie density, joint support, and easily digestible ingredients. By selecting the right food, you can help support your dog's overall health and well-being, ensuring they lead a happy and active life. Consult with a veterinarian to determine the best food for your dog's specific needs, and consider a fresh, human-grade dog food subscription for a more personalized and nutrient-rich diet.

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