Ok.. here is the deal. We own a 15 month old Saint...
The drool issue, well it isn't as bad as everyone thinks it is. I think that people see Beethoven, as see the part where he comes in a shakes and has drool EVERYWHERE, and think that this is how it is. We do have drool wrags in the house, but really it isn't that big of a deal.. Now, we haven't experienced the bad shedding yet, so I can't comment on that.
But the important things.. He is a wonderful dog.. Best temperment that you could ever ask for. Very intelligent, and easy to train. Gets along great with other dogs. He is weary of strangers, however I don't think that he would ever do anything other than run the other way if it came down to it..
He eats about a pound of premium food a day..
Great dog overall....but know that owning a giant breed is not like owning a small dog.. Formal Training must be continued throughout their life..