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History of the Standard Poodle

The breed probably dates back to the late Roman period but certainly the variety we know as the Standard Poodle was well established across the whole of Europe by the 16th Century. The Miniature and Toy varieties developed in the next two hundred years or so. The Standard Poodle's original popularity was largely due to his fame as a Water Retriever. Ancient Egyptian and Roman artifacts depict the Poodle's ancestors assisting their masters as game nets are brought in, retrieving various game from marshes, and herding animals. The Poodle is said to be related to the Portuguese Water Dog and the Irish Water Spaniel. The Poodle is the world's oldest water retriever, circus performer, and truffle hunter. The ubiquitous Poodle is such a versatile dog, he can be all things to all people.

Dogs similar in type to today's Poodle were carved in Roman tombs as far back as 30 A.D. and can be seen in European paintings as early as the 15th century. Although the breed took its name from the German word "pudel," which means "to splash in water," the French were responsible for bringing the Poodle to international attention. The first Poodles in England were known as "Rough Water Dogs" and they served primarily as hunting companions. Poodles were first brought to the United States at the end of the 19th century, but the breed did not become popular until after World War II. By the mid '50s, the Poodle was the most popular breed in the United States, a position held for over 20 years. Today the Poodle is divided into two breeds: the Standard Poodle, which serves primarily as a gun dog and companion animal, and the Poodle, composed of the Miniature and Toy varieties, and which serves primarily as companion breed. The standards of the two breeds are essentially identical but for size.

The Poodle is a very active, intelligent and elegant-appearing dog, squarely built, well proportioned, moving soundly and carrying himself proudly. Properly clipped in the traditional fashion and carefully groomed, the Poodle has about him an air of distinction and dignity.  The Poodle's coat lends itself to a variety of hair styles. Most of which derive from their duties as a retriever where shorn to protect their joints in cold water.  The Poodle's coat may be groomed into three basic styles: the "pet clip" (or puppy clip), with relatively short hair all over the body, the "English saddle" clip, and the "Continental" clip with the rear half of the body shaved, bracelets left around the ankles and pom-poms left on the tails and hips.  The Poodle has another great advantage, it does not shed.  The Poodle is cheerful, super smart and remarkably intelligent.  Highly responsive, they are said to be one of the most trainable breeds.  This breed is great at learning tricks.  Pleasant, happy, perky and lively, they like to be with people.  The Poodle will feel slighted if it is left out of family activities.  He is very amusing and clever.  Many owners feel this dog understands speech in an uncanny way.  Delightful, very amusing and clever, but sometimes reserved with strangers.  It makes a very good watchdog for its size.  Any effort the owner puts into training and socializing will be well rewarded.

The Poodle is the national dog of France.