Miniature Poodle

The Miniature Poodle that we adore today has origins in Germany, with ancestors in the Water Dog breeds like the Portuguese, Hungarian, and Spanish. The North American Barbet is thought to be in the dog lineage as well. These attractive curly-haired canines were developed mainly in France, however, and it is there that the miniature was bred down from the standard variety.

Poodles have been long recognized for their cleverness and obedience. They were once used as an aid to the duck hunter and the way their coat was clipped reflected that. The fancy clipping patterns that we see today were originally created to allow the retriever a smooth entry and swim through the water while keeping the joints of the legs and hips covered, as well as the chest. Today, in conformation shows, clipping patterns such as the Continental, Sporting, and Saddle Patterns are seen and are a homage to the early designs of Poodle owners of long ago.

Truffle hunting was another job bestowed on this intelligent dog and they still have an innate love for tracking generations later. Once stars of the circus, these agile and athletic pups show their celebrity and love for performing every time they enter the conformation ring. After their working history, comes a life of splendor in the homes and hearts of the nobles of France, and then of Europe. They joined the roster of the American Kennel Club in 1887.