Poodles – Not Just Another Pretty Face

Many people don’t realize that poodles are one of the premier gun and hunting dogs in the world, originally bred in Germany, not exclusively in France, as a hunter’s working dog. Poodles originally were not groomed and clipped the way that we know see most poodles, rather their tight curly coats were idea for shedding water and drying quickly even in cold climates. Currently the Poodle is most closely associated with France, and the breed is now recognized as a French breed. They are used for customs searches and other police work in France where their wonderful scenting abilities and high levels of intelligence make them invaluable.

The name Poodle is German, deriving from the German word “pudeln” which literally means to splash about in water. The original gun dogs were the standard or large variety but the breed was quickly noted for its intelligence and easygoing personality. The miniature poodle was bred as a smaller version of the standard size, and then the toy was bred from the miniature.

History of the Breed

The exact origins of the Poodle are not clearly understood. There is debate about the actual country that first bred the poodle but it is believed to be Germany, France and possibly Russia. The Portuguese water dog and the Irish Spaniel are relatives of the standard poodle and share many of the breed's traits. The hunters trimmed the coat of the standard poodle very short on the body but left it longer on the legs to provide protection in the cold water. Some historians report that the topknot, or long hair on the head, was left to help hunter see the dogs even at distances in the water. The French originally called the Poodle “Caniche”, meaning duck dog. The standard poodles in France were often used in circus performances since they were so intelligent and easy to train. Both Standard and miniature poodles were used in the performances, often featuring balancing and athletic activities almost beyond belief.

Miniature poodles were first introduced sometime in the 15th century. They were still used as hunting dogs but were simply bred to be smaller. There are numerous records of the miniature poodles being used to sniff out truffles, the rare and delicious ingredient to many exotic French recipes.

Toy poodles are first noted in the 18th century as favorite dogs of the Royal Court and the nobles. The toy poodles were used as lap dogs and most paintings of royalty in this era will have a poodle, usually white, predominantly located in the painting.

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Showing

The three different sizes of poodles are judged in the same manner in the various show events. The poodle can have different cuts, depending on the regulations of the various events. The most recognized cut is called the continental, and includes the almost bare mid-section, the bracelets at the ankles and tail, and the dramatic pom-poms on the tail and at the hips. There's also a puppy clip, which is simply short all over, as well as the English Saddle clip.

Poodles can be any solid color, but can't be spotted or marked in any way. The tail can be docked to half its length or slightly less. The hair is very thick, dense and curly and should be well brushed and free from any mats or areas of patchiness or thin hair.

Poodles are very proud dogs and carry themselves with a light and springy step. The tail is carried very high and the eyes and ears are very alert and move easily towards any noise. The poodle is not aggressive or timid in the show ring, rather they are regal and elegant looking.

Poodles do not shed, so are a great dog for those that have allergies. The coat does require regular grooming, ideally on a daily basis. Clipping the poodle decreases the need for grooming, especially if the dog is outdoors or very active. The poodle does well with both families and single people, although the toy variety does not do as well with small children as the miniature and standard sizes. Proper socialization makes the Poodle a good companion dog, even with other dogs and pets.