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The Poodle is a
breed of dog. Toy, miniature, and standard poodles are distinguished by
adult shoulder height. Poodles come in many colors including black,
blue, white, cream, red, apricot, silver and brown. They also appear in
parti-color, or multi-colors.
The FCI lists the
country of origin as France, but the breed's true origin is the subject
of lively dispute in the dog world. Some experts believe poodles may
have originated in Russia or Iberia; Germany is also frequently cited.
However, most sources concur that the French are responsible for
developing the modern breed into its current three sizes: standard,
miniature, and toy. Poodles are one of the oldest breeds, and have been
popular throughout Europe for several hundred years.
Poodles are retrievers,
or gun dogs, and can still be seen in that role. Some sources believe
the show clips evolved from working clips, which originally provided
warmth to major joints when the dogs were immersed in cold water. The
rest of the body is shaved for less drag in the water. Others express
skepticism at the theory that if poodles need to warm their joints, why
do other water dogs such as labrador retrievers not require this same
precaution? Poodles are skilled at most other dog events including
agility, obedience, tracking, and even herding. |
