Koa, Canada’s #1 Leonberger, made the journey to the world’s largest dog show earlier this month, travelling alongside his owner, Gaye Sihin, handler Jennifer Driessen, and Canadian dog expert Allison Alexander.
Known formally as CR Prince Charming, Koa has built an impressive record in just over two and a half years on the Canadian show scene. During that time, he has earned multiple Best in Show and Reserve Best in Show wins and became the first Leonberger in Canadian history to achieve the Grand Champion Gold title. The team brought that success to the international stage when they competed at Crufts.
In the ring, Koa is known for his commanding presence and balanced movement, combining power and masculinity with the steady, kind temperament typical of the Leonberger breed. For a dog of his size, his movement is particularly striking, covering the ground with fluidity and drive while maintaining the strength and presence expected of the breed.
At home, however, Koa is simply a devoted companion. Despite his imposing stature, he is affectionate and deeply bonded to his family. He shares daily life with another Leonberger, Ginny, enjoying ocean swims, long “sniffari” walks, and relaxing at home with his people.
For owner Gaye Sihin, the path to Crufts was an unexpected one. Koa is her first show dog, and she admits she entered the world of dog shows with very little experience.
“I used to think you wash your dog, walk into the ring, and hope for the best,” she says. “What I’ve learned is that the few minutes in the ring are the smallest part of the process. The real work happens long before the show.”
Through the process of preparing Koa for competition, Sihin says she developed a new appreciation for the dedication required to present dogs at the highest level.
“The dogs competing at a high level are not just beautiful, they are prepared,” she explains. “Their strength, stamina, and presence are built intentionally over time. It doesn’t require extraordinary expense, but it does require consistency, patience, and commitment.”
Much of that preparation was a team effort. Canadian professional handler Jennifer Driessen guided and presented Koa throughout his career. While Driessen is an experienced handler, Koa represents her first Leonberger, making the journey something both handler and owner embraced together.
Behind every successful show dog is also a dedicated breeder. Cindy Hunt, who bred Koa, recalls that even as a young puppy he stood out among his littermates.
“In every litter there are one or two puppies that sparkle,” Hunt says. “They carry themselves in a way that captures your attention. From five weeks old, Koa was a standout puppy.”
The team’s journey to Crufts also included a meaningful full-circle moment.
Years ago, when Sihin was new to dog shows, she struggled during an early outing in the ring. A fellow exhibitor took the time to offer encouragement and demonstrate a few handling basics. Later that evening, while searching online to learn more, Sihin realized that the person who had helped her was none other than Allison Alexander, one of Canada’s most accomplished handlers and educators.
That early act of kindness helped spark her confidence to continue in the sport. Years later, Alexander travelled with the team to Crufts.
“When I think back to that moment encouraging someone new to take a step forward in our sport, it genuinely feels like a shared success,” Alexander says. “Watching someone grow in confidence and skill, and seeing that early encouragement turn into tangible achievement, is one of the most rewarding parts of being involved in this sport.”
Alexander also played an important role at Crufts itself. This year marked the introduction of the show’s first-ever dog grooming competition, and she was invited to judge the Open and Champion classes for Poodles.
“To be invited to judge the first-ever Poodle Grooming Competition at Crufts is both humbling and deeply meaningful,” she says. “Crufts represents the pinnacle of excellence in our sport, and it is an honour to be entrusted with a role in such a milestone event.”
As Team Koa stepped into the ring at Crufts, the moment represented far more than another competition.
It was the result of years of preparation, mentorship, and teamwork between an owner, handler, breeder, and mentor who believed in a remarkable dog from the very beginning. And for Koa, Canada’s Leonberger champion, the journey to the world’s biggest stage became another chapter in a story that began with a promising puppy and a bit of encouragement ringside.
While Koa and his team represented Canada in the ring, they were far from alone. According to Crufts, 18 Canadian owners and 21 Canadian dogs were entered in this year’s show, including
Canadian Gchb Cr Zulu "Lurch", the Best of Breed winner for Leonbergers (owners Barb & Kevin Spears, and handler Rafael Puerta).
From conformation to performance events, Canadian exhibitors continue to make their mark on the international stage, bringing their passion, preparation, and dedication to one of the world’s most prestigious dog shows.
Congratulations to all Canadians who competed at Crufts this year!