Dog's Name & Age
Newton, 3 years old
In a Word, My Saint Bernard Is…
Motivated by love more than anything.
Best Characteristics of the Breed
Gentleness and connection.
Most Challenging Characteristics of the Breed
Size and stubbornness.
When, Where and How I Got My Saint Bernard
Newton's breeder is a famous Saint breeder, and his father is the number one Saint on the show circuit. His breeder let me pick him up at a dog show, and he weighed about 25 pounds--he was nine weeks old. He's now well over 150 pounds, but still has that puppy trust and energy. He is my first Saint, though not my first giant breed. I had a Great Pyrenees before I got him. His temperament is great, and he is the most love-motivated dog I've ever had. He is also strong willed, and hates to get into the car to go to the vet. Having a Saint is a great experience that I wouldn't trade for the world
I'd Describe My Dog As…
Caring, connected, willful and smart. Housebreaking was absolutely no problem. Training is another story. Because they are rescue dogs by breeding, they tend to be independent. It is as though they know best, and they are always waiting for the next avalanche! Newton has no medical problems, except for being allergic to one flea medicine. That was easy to deal with. Good eater, good energy, a great companion.
Advice
- Consult breeders and don't buy a Saint that doesn't come from someone who is a member of the Saint Bernard Club of America. They often have beautiful pet puppies for much less than you'd expect--and certainly less than you'd pay from a backyard breeder or puppy mill, both of which exploit these beautiful dogs for the breeder's gain. A good breeder will give you tips on early exercise (not too much) and later diet (again, not too much!).
- Having a Saint in your family will be the best experience you can imagine.
