Another theory is that Poodles migrated from Asia with Germanic tribes, eventually becoming a German water dog used to retrieve water fowl. The name Poodle is derived from the German word "pudel," which translates as "splash in water," and historians have traced the Poodle's unique hair cuts to the late 16th and early 17th Centuries, in the region that is now Germany.

The Poodle's intelligence and build made this breed popular with traveling performers. Gypsies, taking advantage of the dense coat, sheared their dogs into whimsical patterns to further entertain their audiences. This practice was adapted by upper class ladies, who would clip, dye and adorn their pets in a variety of styles. The practice peaked with the French nobility, who turned it into an art form. It is no surprise that the French have claimed the Poodle as their National Dog.

The simple grooming tools of scissors, combs and brushes used long ago have been augmented with forced air dryers, clippers, stain removers, shampoos and conditioners, all essential for competing in today's conformation ring. Owners interested in grooming their own Poodles are usually surprised to find that it is more difficult than it seems, and preparing a Poodle for competition is an art form often left to expert handlers.

A painting by Master Frankfurt from 1533 depicted a Poodle in a modern day Continental clip. Conformation exhibition as we know it is only about 125 years old. The Kennel Club of England registered its first Poodle in 1874 and the American Kennel Club registered its first Poodle in 1886. However, the first dog show ever recorded sporting a Poodle was organized by the Holy Roman Emperor, Rudolf II, in 1603.

The first American Kennel Club Best of Show awarded to a Poodle was in 1907. Since then, many famous Standard, Miniature and Toy Poodles have thrilled spectators, owners and handlers with multiple Best in Show wins, establishing the foundation dams and sires of today's Poodles.

Hairstyles throughout the ages have given the Poodle the reputation of being a woman's dog, but that is not the case. These remarkably intelligent dogs provide a number of services to their owners. They are said to have a sense of smell second only to the Blood Hound. French Customs officers use Poodles to search for illegal substances. As trackers of contraband, their keen sense of smell and their medium size make it possible for them to get into tight places that larger dogs might not be able to access. Poodles are used as retrievers, guide dogs, and hearing and therapy dogs. Along with their versatility and usefulness, Poodles make excellent companions. Poodles do not shed nor give off an unpleasant odor, and they tend not to bother people who normally have allergies to dogs.

Overall, the Poodle has been a useful and loyal friend to mankind for a very long time. There are countless reasons why this animal's popularity has survived so well over the ages.