cassie

Very cool!

Very cool Lisa

I still think a calm giant breed will suit you really well :) A Saint will adore being the centre of your world and your dearest companion. Others that would suit include a Mastiff or Leonberger. Giants can be prone to some health issues though so doing your research and seeking a good breeder would be essential.

Couldn't agree more! I know we all love our breeds but come on, they're not all suited for every situation. This thread is probably the second time EVER I've recommended my own breed.

Saint Bernard! :) I very rarely suggest my own breed but in your friend's circumstance I think one would fit perfectly. - Definitely large enough to deter someone; although not a typical guarding breed they can be protective of their families. A deep warning bark from a Saint would have anyone second guessing their actions. - Super affectionate and friendly, and very calm as adults. - Minimal grooming is required with a smooth Saint. A rough takes more to keep their coat looking nice and tangle-free but it's not anything tricky or complicated, even for the show ring. Show potential pups do become available from time to time too. (Some other breeds they seem to always be out of reach.) Shedding is quite heavy though. - Only ever barks for a reason, not yappy at all. - Typically brilliant with other dogs and animals, including small pets. - Will welcome friends and family into your house. - Perfectly suited to a leisurely walk although not too long or too far in the first 18 months while the skeleton is still developing. As for a confidence boost, not many other breeds draw as much attention as a Saint. Everyone will stop your friend to ask a million questions about "the bear" and everyone will want a pat and cuddle. A Saint will adore being the centre of her world, they are incredibly loving and loyal.

Thanks everybody, I think he's pretty handsome and loveable too :) It's been a tradition since I had my first dog that they all get steak on their birthdays :) Moose got one too of course. Sumo is far off being fully grown. He will slow right down now though. He should reach his full height at around 18-24 months (probably only another inch or so) but he has plenty of filling out to do yet. He won't be completely mature til around four years old when his head stops growing. He's around 70kg now, I expect him to reach around 90kg.

He'll slow right down in his growth now but should still grow "up" a little more, maybe another inch or two. He should continue filling out until he's at least three though, maybe even four, and his head won't be completely mature until then either :)

LOL that's funny dotdashdot :) I specifically chose my breeds for their easy going and chilled out natures, as I'm that way myself. I'm not super active every day, so a very active dog wouldn't suit me. Isn't it great how diverse all the purebreds are, there really is something to fit everyone :)

Thanks everyone for his bday wishes :) Your image of the gentle giant is not far off Monchichi! Yes he went through the puppy biting stage like they all do, but it was hardly ever directed at us, maybe only once or twice when he first came home. We redirected his attention to toys and it was never an issue. He met his first babies (my nephews) when he was 4 months old (they were only 8 months old) and he instinctively lay down and let them touch him, never tried to mouth them once. They are incredible dogs, and truly do love everyone.

Puppy Sumo turned ONE yesterday!!! Can hardly believe it. He's around the 70kg mark now. Here he is with his birthday breakfast steak :) It was a long weekend here in SA last weekend, so OH and I went away to the river with his family, and took the pups too. Thought I'd share some pics from the weekend. This is Sumo with our niece. Sumo loooooves water as you can see! We could hardly keep him out! I love this one :) Cuddles with his Dad. Waiting for the boat to come back. Yes he went on the boat and loved that too! Literally nothing phases this dog, I've never owned one like him. All worn out, relaxing in the shade with me, my friend and Moose.

Sumo turned ONE yesterday! How the time has flown! Here he is with his birthday breakfast steak :) It was a long weekend here in SA last weekend, so OH and I went away to the river with his family, and took the pups too. Thought I'd share some pics from the weekend. This is Sumo with our niece. Sumo loooooves water as you can see! We could hardly keep him out! I love this one :) Cuddles with his Dad. Waiting for the boat to come back. Yes he went on the boat and loved that too! Literally nothing phases this dog, I've never owned one like him. All worn out, relaxing in the shade with me, my friend and Moose.

Very cool! Thanks for sharing :) Gosh your little Sid has such a versatile and exciting life

Didn't want to start a whole new thread so thought I'd try here. Does anyone know when the Adelaide Royal schedules are usually released? The show isn't until September.

Naww thank you :) He looooved you too! Sorry about all the hair and slobber Welcome to my life! Seriously, sorry, he's shedding bucket loads. Willow is LOVELY and super friendly and happy! She did awesome tonight too.

Hmm I hadn't thought of that. Sumo hasn't discovered the joys of girls yet! Don't take it personally Willow but I may not let him sniff you for too long or I'll never keep his brain on the job! :laugh: A photo is a good idea though, I better spruce the feral up a bit!

Can't wait to see Willow again!!

Ohh cool I'll make an extra effort to go then, I was feeling a little slack after work but you've inspired me now :)

Ok cool, I'm not working for once so pretty sure Sumo and I will be there :)

Are you going to show training on Thurs night Dory?

Yay! I was considering the open shows too. Maybe. Will probably do those Pug Club ones though. If work is kind to me!

Dory what shows are you entering?? :)

Nevermind I'm sorted now, thanks all.

Thanks so much! Does anyone feel like going the extra mile with some names? :p

Does anyone happen to have a catalogue for the Canberra Royal, and can tell me how many Saint Bernards are entered? (And which ones if you want to be REALLY helpful!) I happen to be in Canberra on Sunday and wondering if its worth going for a look. Thanks :)

The greatest news, congrats Reba and SLF!