POODLE HISTORY

The origins of the poodle are shrouded in mystery. It is believed that they originate from Germany (not France as many believe) as the name poodle comes from the German word 'puddeln', which means to splash in water. This is because poodles were originally bred as water dogs to retrieve waterfowl for hunters. Some also believe that poodles once hunted bears, which seems remarkable. However, the poodle is a versatile and agile dog known for its intelligence and speed.

Some claim the poodle originates from Russia, Holland or Denmark too, making its history even more puzzling.

The poodle also claims to be a relation of the Portuguese water dog, as the breed was introduced to Portugal in the 8th century by the Moors as a working dog.

Poodles have been used as truffle hunters because they are easy to train and their working origins give them a natural ability to sniff out this valuable commodity.

The history of clipping poodles comes from their roots as working dogs, when hunters clipped them to make it easier for them to swim and retrieve from the water. A sodden poodle with a matted curly coat would be no match for its sprightly relation that had been neatly clipped.

Despite its origins being in Germany the poodle is today officially the national dog of France, hence the reference to French poodles. In France it's known as the 'caniche', which means 'duck dog'. Toy poodles are more popular than standards in France and are treated as one of the family. Take lunch at a French restaurant and it's not unusual to see a poodle sat comfortably on a chair next to its master (imagine that in the UK!).

Another totally bizarre historical fact about poodles is that the toy breed were once used as hand-warmers by the nobility during the Renaissance. This is why they are sometimes referred to as sleeve dogs.

When we think of poodles a small dog dressed up in clothes and ribbons often comes to mind. Some owners still dress their dogs today, which is up to individual preference. It sometimes seems cruel to do this, almost treating the poodle like a child, but it does have a purpose in keeping a small dog warm, particularly if its coat has been clipped quite short. The origin of dressing up poodles probably comes from when gypsies dressed them and used them to do tricks and perform. Toy poodles are well known for being easy to teach tricks.

Poodles also feature in many historical paintings from as far back as the 15th and 16th centuries. Some of Goya's 18th century work illustrates the poodle as once being the favourite pet dog of the Spaniards.

A varied and colourful history certainly, for a lively and intelligent breed.