Because the Ttoodle is a relatively new hybrid breed, very
little of its history is known. The history of the parent breeds, however, is
well documented. The Poodle is one of the world’s oldest breeds and is believed
to have originated in Germany. The Poodle we are familiar with today, though,
was likely developed in France by combining several European dogs. Another theory
suggests that the breed has ancestors from the Asian steppes who ended up in
Portugal. While most commonly kept as a companion in modern times, Standard and Miniature Poodles have also been used for duck hunting and gathering truffles. The breed became recognized by the American
Kennel Club in 1888 and remains a popular breed. The Tibetan Terrier is another
dog breed with ancient roots. Originating in Tibet more than 2000 years ago,
these friendly dogs were bred to serve as companions for monastery monks. They
were also used by nomadic herdsmen to herd sheep are were believed to bring
good look to their owners. Once known as “The Holy Dogs of Tibet,” they were
often given as gifts as thanks for favors. They were never sold as the Tibetans
believed they would be selling their luck away. The first Tibetan Terrier was
brought to England in 1922 by Dr. Grieg. The doctor was later given a second Tibetan
Terrier, and she began breeding them. In 1956, two Tibetan Terriers from the
kennels of Dr. Grieg were brought to the United States. Despite the breed’s
lengthy history, it only became recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1973.
In 2016, the winner of the non-sporting breed category of the National Dog Show
was a Tibetan Terrier named Clue.