01/05/2026
Nothing makes me prouder as a breeder than to witness the development of one of our dogs.
This is a submission by Gaye Sihin- a lovely tribute to her amazing boy CR Prince Charming( Koa)
Koa: My Prince Charming
As I reflect on Koa’s show career, I find myself filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the journey we’ve shared. What began with the hope of presenting a promising young Leonberger has evolved into an experience far richer than I ever imagined - one shaped by learning, community, victories, and challenges.
In his two and a half years in the conformation ring, he’s been awarded 5 Best in Shows, 5 Reserve Best in Shows, 34 Group 1s, 22 Group 2s, 32 Group 3s, and 20 Group 4s under numerous esteemed judges. Koa is wrapping up 2025 as #1 Leonberger and #5 Working Dog, with enough points to title “Multiple Best in Show, Multiple Reserve Best in Show, American Champion, Canadian Grand Champion Gold CR Prince Charming”. These accolades place him as the most decorated Best in Show–winning Leonberger in Canadian history, a distinction we never set out to chase. We simply continued an activity that made him light up.
And yet, as proud as I am of these achievements, Koa’s greatest impact has never been measured in ribbons. His true accomplishment lies in the attention, admiration, and genuine curiosity he inspires for this magnificent breed. Ringside, online, and out in everyday life - as all Leonberger owners know well - people brighten when they see him. They ask questions. They want to understand the breed. They fall in love with Leonbergers for the first time or with Leonbergers a little more. Those moments feel like our biggest wins: opportunities to be ambassadors, to educate with honesty, and to strengthen the community that protects our breed’s future.
None of this would have been possible without the foundation he came from. I am deeply grateful to Cindy Hunt of Concorde Ridge Leonbergers. Having an honest, thoughtful, and supportive breeder behind you is transformational. It means guidance when you feel overwhelmed, mentorship when you’re unsure, and someone who cares about your dog’s wellbeing as deeply as you do. Not every puppy owner has that level of support - I know how fortunate I am to have it.
I am thankful to the judges who have recognized his merits, from his structure and movement to his presence and exuberance in the ring. And, in hindsight, I am also thankful for the judges who did not place him as highly. Those moments pushed me to learn more about my dog and about the other dogs sharing the ring with us.
Outside the ring, Koa remains the joyful, grounded soul who won my heart. He greets the ocean like an old friend, roams forests as though they are his personal kingdom, and treats snowfall as an invitation to celebrate. His gentleness with children, his delight in small dogs, and his reliable nature reminds me daily why temperament is the core of this breed.
This chapter - learning, showing, listening, observing - has shaped me into a more thoughtful Leonberger steward. I have gained a deeper appreciation for my beloved breed and the responsibility that comes with owning and potentially breeding a working dog. Preserving what makes Leonbergers special requires intention, humility, and a commitment to continuous learning.
To new owners and those considering entering the show ring, I encourage you to try it. The education you gain is invaluable. One of the great joys of this experience has been the community surrounding it - the friendships formed ringside, the mentorship so generously shared, and the collective passion for preserving and improving the breed. I hope to continue building a community where we discuss dogs honestly and kindly, share our goals transparently, and work together toward the betterment of the breed we all love.
Looking ahead, I am excited for the many ways Koa and I will continue exploring the world together. Alongside his time in the ring, we will be branching into activities that celebrate the Leonberger’s working heritage – carting…and perhaps even a few adventures we haven’t yet imagined. Whatever path we take, I know he will greet each new challenge with the same steady enthusiasm and generous spirit that have made sharing my life with him such a joy.
Koa has given me more than I can ever repay: pride, perspective, community, and an unshakeable bond. The legacy he has created - in the ring, in the breed, and in the hearts of those he has touched - is something I treasure deeply. Walking beside him, whether in the show world or in the quiet moments of our life together, remains one of my greatest privileges.
