Best Dog Brush for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers (2026)
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers have a distinctive double coat that sheds year-round, with seasonal heavy shedding periods that can overwhelm unprepared owners. Their water-resistant undercoat and dense topcoat require consistent grooming to prevent matting, reduce allergens, and maintain the coat's natural oils that protect them during hunting and water work.
The best brush for Tollers combines effective undercoat removal with gentle handling to preserve coat health. Look for tools with stainless steel construction that can reach through the dense topcoat without causing brush burn, paired with a reliable deshedding mechanism to manage their substantial shedding volume.
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Our Top Pick
Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush
Used by professional groomers and show handlers for long, silky, or curly coats — the extra-long pins detangle mats without damaging the coat texture.
Chris Christensen
Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush
Best professional slicker for show coatsProfessional-grade slicker brush ideal for maintaining Tollers' dense double coat and white markings without causing brush burn during frequent grooming sessions.
- Professional groomer standard for long or curly coats
- Cushioned pad prevents brush burn
- 12% longer pins than standard slickers
FURminator
FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool for Large Dogs, Long Hair
Best deShedding tool for long double coatsEssential deshedding tool for Tollers' heavy-shedding double coat that removes up to 90% of loose undercoat before it sheds throughout your home.
- Removes up to 90% of loose undercoat hair
- Stainless steel edge reaches through topcoat
- FURejector button releases hair with one click
Wahl
Wahl Professional Animal Stainless Steel Comb
Best finishing comb for long coatsFinishing comb with dual-spacing teeth perfect for working through Tollers' thick coat after slicker brushing to prevent mats in water-exposed areas.
- Stainless steel — lasts decades
- Dual-spacing teeth (wide + narrow)
- Essential final step after brushing for mats
Hertzko
Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush
Best everyday slicker for medium/long coatsAffordable everyday slicker with self-cleaning button ideal for Tollers' frequent grooming needs during normal shedding cycles between seasonal coat blows.
- One-click self-cleaning button ejects trapped hair
- Fine bent wires penetrate mat-prone coats
- Affordable — under $15 on most platforms
Safari
Safari by Coastal Wire Pin Brush for Dogs
Best wire pin brush for wire/rough coatsFlexible pin brush suitable for Tollers' coat texture, offering a comfortable daily brushing option with polished tips that protect sensitive skin.
- Polished round pin tips prevent skin irritation
- Flexible cushion base
- Affordable daily-use option
How to Choose the Right Brush for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers shed heavily due to their double coat structure, making undercoat removal a priority rather than optional maintenance. Choose a deshedding tool like the FURminator alongside a slicker brush to tackle loose hair before it accumulates. This two-tool approach prevents mats from forming in high-friction areas like their chest and hindquarters while reducing the amount of hair shed throughout your home.
Their water-resistant coat requires brushes with fine, densely-packed wires or pins that can penetrate both layers without skipping. Tollers also spend significant time in water retrieving, so post-swim grooming is essential. A brush with a self-cleaning button saves time during frequent grooming sessions.
Consider your grooming commitment realistically—Tollers need brushing 3-4 times weekly during normal shedding and daily during seasonal coat blows. A lightweight, ergonomic brush prevents hand fatigue during these longer sessions. Stainless steel construction resists rust from frequent water exposure and lasts years through regular use.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I brush my Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?
Brush Tollers 3-4 times weekly year-round to manage their constant shedding and prevent matting. During spring and fall seasonal coat blows, increase to daily brushing for 2-3 weeks. After swimming or retrieving in water, brush their coat when damp to prevent mats from forming. Consistent grooming maintains coat health and significantly reduces loose hair shedding.
Why does my Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever shed so much?
Tollers' double coat naturally sheds year-round but dramatically increases during spring and fall when they transition between seasonal coats. Their water-resistant undercoat, designed for cold-water hunting, grows densely and sheds heavily twice yearly. Regular deshedding with tools like the FURminator removes loose undercoat before it falls out naturally, controlling shedding and preventing mats.
Can I use the same brush wet and dry on my Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever?
Most slicker and pin brushes work best on dry or slightly damp coats, as wet hair is prone to breakage. Brush Tollers when coat is dry for routine grooming and deshedding. After swimming, towel-dry their coat before brushing to prevent damage. The KONG ZoomGroom is one exception—it's designed for wet bathing use. Always check individual tool instructions.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Full Breed Profile
Temperament, health conditions, care guides, and adoption resources.