How Did Poodle Cut Styles Originate?

Poodles have the most distinctive style of any dog. With its shaven legs, tufted head and pom-pom tail, it is easily recognizable. Contrary to popular belief, these stately canines are much more than an ornament -- they are quite intelligent. For centuries poodles worked as retrievers. According to the American Kennel Club, the standard poodle was especially adept in water, while the miniature and toy poodles were expert truffle hunters, a delicious fungal delicacy. It is for this service that poodles first received their unique coiffure.

  1. Hunting Dog

    • Hunters in Europe employed poodles to hunt and fetch fallen fowl in the water. Their speed and agility in the water, combined with thick insulating fur made them favorites. The American Kennel Club claims the breed originated in Germany, where they began their career as the Pudel or Canis Familiaris Aquatius. To aid in swimming, poodles received short cuts. Chilly conditions required insulation for the water-bound canines, so the trim allowed for thicker fur on the head and chest, protecting organs, and on the joints, protecting against cold.

    Pampered Hunter

    • Because of the effectiveness of the new cut, a pattern was developed for the style. This new clip attracted attention, especially from sponsors in France. By the reign of Louis XVI in the eighteenth century, toy poodles were kept as pampered pets.

    History in Art

    • Susan Ewing, author of "Poodles for Dummies" asserts that Greek and Roman artwork, including coins and tomb art from 30 A.D. depict poodle-like dogs, though experts are not certain if these dogs are related to the modern poodle. Artwork from Holland, Italy, France, Spain and Germany depict the modern poodle as far back as the fifteenth century, including work by Albrecht Durer and Goya. Some of these paintings show the working canines sporting haircuts similar to those we see today.

    Today's Trim

    • Kennel clubs -- such as the American Kennel Club, American Canine Association and European clubs -- enumerate specific cut guidelines for show poodles. Pet groomers model the style with much less rigor for the household pet.