The Saint Bernard now has changed dramatically from the original Saint specimens like "Barry".  If you compare the picture of him on the history page and the picture to the right you can see a noticeable difference.  To the right are 2 pictures of Am/Can Ch Trusts Gentle Ben V Slaton.  Ben is currently the number one Saint of 2001, and the number 2 working dog in the country.  This is the first time a Saint has ever made this accomplishment.  He is also the number 6 dog of all breeds in the country, he has over 100 group placements, which is a record, and the most Best in Shows, which he currently has 48 of.  This is quite outstanding but he still has a lot of time left to improve these numbers.  And you can bet he will.  

     Every year the Saint Bernard national occurs in a different location of the U.S.  This year it was in Houston Woods State Park in Ohio.  Throughout the year there are also many other dog shows and events to go to.  It is common to see a Saint doing conformation or being shown in the ring, doing a weigh pull, performing in an obedience competition, doing therapy work in hospitals, or doing something else.  Saints have excellent temperaments and are very trustworthy if trained and taken proper care of.     

     The Saint like any other dog requires certain health care attention as a puppy and as an adult.  Any dog you rescue, buy from a breeder, or get anywhere else should be taken to the vet and have some things taken care of.  If you are unsure about the dogs health record you should be safe and get him/her spayed or neutered, get his/her shots, and put the dog on worm and flea preventatives.  Also the dog should be tested for worms and treated if necessary.  Most puppies should have their front and back dewclaws removed but that is usually done by the breeder when the pups are very young.  Any Saint you are thinking about getting, should have an excellent temperament.  With a dog of that size you cannot afford to have any aggression problems.  Though Saints are known for their outstanding temperament with all other animals and people you must still be careful since of course there are exceptions.  Even as puppies, you should not pick out a sleepy little puppy who is the runt of the litter just because you feel sorry for him.  Chances are you may regret it later.  The dog you get should always seem amazingly friendly but also gentle and healthy looking.  Before going to buy any dog, you should always be very cautious and research the breed, individual dog, the background of the dog, and your capability of taking care of him.       

     If you have thought about what you're getting into, discussed it with the family, and are positive that you want a Saint and are also in the position to get one, you should be aware of your options.  Like other breeds, there is a breed rescue.  In rescue you can get an abused or unwanted dog of almost any age, even puppies.  Though before you get a rescue, you should know that your dog will not be show quality, will probably not look like it is supposed to, and may need health care attention, training, and/or other individual requirements.  Plus, you must also be passed to adopt a dog.  A thorough process is performed and if you do not pass with flying colors, you will not be passed and allowed to get a rescue dog.  It is important that you realize the difference between rescue and getting a dog from a reputable breeder who shows their dogs and gets titles on them.  A show quality dog's price may range anywhere between $800 to $1500 dollars.  A rescue dog may be cheaper but you probably won't be getting the same quality dog.  It is of course the buyer's decision though and anyone getting a Saint should research their options and get a dog according to their individual needs, wants, intentions, and taste.