Exercise: Schnauzers need an average amount of exercise, but they like to be busy and kept occupied. Suitable activities for these dogs include, swimming, running alongside a cycle (once fully grown), agility skills, fly-ball, playing in garden and running in woods. If their exercise needs are met, then they should be quite peaceful and calm.

History: It is believed that Schnauzers evolved from German Wirehaired pinschers, black poodles and a spitz-like grey dog. They date back to 15th and 16th centuries when they were used for herding, ratting and guarding. These dogs were once known as Schnauzer-Pinscher.

Additional Comments:

Schnauzers need firm training and early socialization with a variety of people and animals to help prevent them becoming overly protective and dominant.

Exercise: Saint Bernards should not be over-exercised as puppies to prevent any damage to their rapidly growing bones and muscles. They are much more active when younger, but tend to slow down once fully grown and don't need as much space for exercise. They need an average amount of exercise and will be happy with regular walks and opportunities to run freely of lead.

History: These dogs descended from Asian Mastiff family and travelled from Greece to Italy and then into Europe. Around 1000 AD breed had established a reputation for assisting lost travellers, due to Swiss monk Bernard de Menthon (from whom they got their name). They were never given formal training, but these dogs had an amazing ability to scent out stranded people in snow. They would often keep victim warm by lying on each side of body, while another dog would go back for help. Inbreeding occurred over centuries and it became necessary to outcross to Newfoundlands and Pyrenean Mountain Dogs. However these crosses brought in rough coated varieties whose coat collected snow and weighed them down in icy weather.

Additional Comments:

Saint Bernards need plenty of bone forming additives, vitamins and minerals when growing, for them to develop muscles needed to carry their large frame. Saint Bernards tend to drool a fair amount, due to their lower lips drooping at outside corners. It is especially noticeable when they are eating and drinking.