There have been many theories on the origins of the poodle, and variations on the theories. One thing that has been agreed upon, is that this dog originated in Europe.
When poodles were first bred, the black poodles were the most desirable of the breed. White, brown, or spotted poodles were considered inferior quality of the breed.
The best swimmers were the large to medium sized dogs.
Their coat was considered a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, their coats kept them warm, particularly when they had to go swimming in cold waters.
On the other hand, their coats made it hard for them to swim, particularly in areas that had swamps and reeds.
To get past this issue, hunters that used these dogs began to shave off their hind quarters.
This allows the dogs to use their back legs when they were swimming, and it also created a more streamlined and lighter swimming experience for the dog.
The poodle is considered one of the most intelligent dogs in the canine race. They are so complex in their intelligence, that they even have variations of character within their own breed.
The reason why people take to poodles instead of other dogs, is because they have an enormous amount of humane qualities in their personalities.
One intriguing thing about the poodle is that as time has evolved, there have been very little changes in the breed.
This is a breed of dog that unlike other breeds, has pretty much remained standardized.
With regards to how the poodle is groomed, especially nowadays, it's up to the taste of the owner. However, popular styles are called the Continental and the English or saddle clip.
The Continental is a shaving style that leaves the hindquarters bare, with what is known as rosettes on the hocks and hips.
The English style leaves a blanket of hair covering the hips.
While some would argue that the clipping style of the poodle is artificial to the point of making the dog look undignified, there is a tradition to clipping the poodle, and many people have come to expect it.
When people clip poodles in the way that they do, they are not making the dog look or feel undignified, and it certainly doesn't take away from their sportsmanship or vitality.
It was common up until recently, that poodles would be seen with bright ribbons around topknots.
That comes from a tradition when different colors of ribbons was used to distinguish one dog from other dogs when they were in the water, particularly when they're out on the hunt with their masters.
Poodles were used to flush out game out of ponds for their masters, or they would actually go after the game themselves.
This is why poodles in the past were known as water dogs. There was actually a time when the poodle was used to help feed the family.
The poodle was used to get game; not for sport, but for actually helping the family maintain their food source.
Hunters would use this dog because they were so intelligent and obedient, as well as reliable.
Again, because this breed has remained mostly standardized throughout time, these are the characteristics and qualities that still make them a prized dog even to this day.
The best swimmers were the large to medium sized dogs.