As a former lurker and brand new poster could I jump in here with some advice? Please go to this site
http://www.saintbernardclub.org/ and read EVERYTHING. As a looong time owner of Saints (early '70's)I can tell you they can be heartbreakers. Giant breeds have shorter lifespans, fact, but those lives can be even shorter due to genetic factors. Hip and elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, osteosarcoma, these are some of those life shorteners that can be gene related. No matter how adorable that litter of puppies is, make
sure that the breeder behind it did their homework. Did they have the parents OFA'd? Do they know what health issues are in their lines for the last 3 or more generations? If not, wait. The right puppy is out there for you. All puppies are a "crap shoot" but do try hard to load the dice in your favor It hurts
so very much to lose one at only 5 years old or younger because someone didn't care enough to breed with integrity. And finally temperment, temperment, temperment. Accept no excuses on why you can't meet the parents or talk to the owners of other puppies they have produced. Do it right and you will never regret being owned by a Saint. They make our lives complete. I'll get off my soapbox now, go find that perfect friend.
Dana
w/Raemi & Breccan
Oh, and obedience training starting
before they outweigh you is a must!