When three giant Saint Bernard brothers arrived at the Edmonton Humane Society in Alberta, Canada, they brought more than 300 pounds of fur, slobber, and heartwarming companionship with them. Goliath, Gunther, and Gasket are not just large dogs—they are inseparable best friends. Their story, which recently captured widespread attention, highlights the unique challenges and joys of adopting bonded pets, especially when they come in such an extra-large package.

The dogs’ arrival at the shelter was memorable not only for their size but also for the immediate logistical adjustments required to accommodate them. According to Jamey Blair, manager of animal health and protection at the shelter, staff had to temporarily close an entire dog ward to provide enough space for the trio to stay together. This decision wasn’t just about comfort—it was about preserving the emotional well-being of the dogs, who had spent their entire lives side by side.

From the start, shelter workers suspected that these 5-year-old Saint Bernards shared a deep bond. They had always eaten from the same bowl and moved as a unit. To better understand their connection, staff conducted a behavior assessment that involved briefly separating the dogs. The results were immediate and telling: the dogs became visibly stressed, panting, refusing food, and trying to escape in search of one another. Once reunited, their anxiety subsided. This confirmed what the shelter already sensed—these dogs needed to be adopted together.

“The dogs are lovely, they’re absolutely delightful to be around,” Blair said. She described them as social, affectionate, and playful. They even seem to get along well with other dogs in the shelter environment. Despite their enormous size and the logistical challenges that come with it, Goliath, Gunther, and Gasket have the kind of temperament that many pet adopters dream of.

Still, rehoming a bonded trio of large dogs is no small feat. The shelter knew it would take a special adopter with the space, resources, and commitment to care for all three. To help find the right match, the Edmonton Humane Society shared their story on Facebook. The response was overwhelming. Blair reported that they received over 200 inquiries from interested adopters—not just from Alberta, but from across the country and even internationally.

While the enthusiastic response was encouraging, the shelter is taking its time to carefully evaluate potential adopters. Their goal is to ensure that the dogs go to a home where they will be loved, supported, and kept together for the rest of their lives. The shelter is also being transparent about the realities of caring for such large pets. Feeding more than 300 pounds of dog each month is a significant expense, not to mention the cost of veterinary care and regular grooming.

As someone who has followed many pet adoption stories, I found this detail striking: the emotional distress the dogs exhibited when separated speaks volumes about their bond. It’s a reminder that animals, like people, form deep attachments that can affect their well-being. The shelter’s decision to prioritize the dogs’ emotional health by insisting on a joint adoption is both compassionate and commendable.

The story of these three Saint Bernards has resonated widely, not only because of their size or cuteness but because it underscores the importance of treating animals as individuals with emotional needs. It also challenges the common assumption that bonded pets—especially in larger numbers—are less adoptable. The public’s enthusiastic response suggests otherwise. People are willing to open their homes and hearts, even when the commitment is substantial.

For those considering adoption, this story serves as a powerful example of the rewards that come with taking in bonded animals. Yes, there are challenges—more fur, more food, more vet visits—but there’s also more love. These dogs have spent their entire lives as a unit, and whoever adopts them will be gaining not just pets, but a ready-made family.

The shelter team will undoubtedly miss these gentle giants when they go to their forever home, but they’re eager to see them begin the next chapter of their lives. Thanks to social media and the tireless efforts of the Edmonton Humane Society, Goliath, Gunther, and Gasket are well on their way to finding the loving home they deserve.

If you’re in the Edmonton area and think you might be the perfect match for this trio, the shelter encourages you to reach out. And for those outside Canada, this story is a great reminder to check your local shelters—there are many other animals waiting for someone to take a chance on them.

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