Poodles Were Bred as Water Retrievers
A poodle is a curly-coated dog. The elaborate clip was originally functional, and the name means to splash.
A poodle is a curly-coated breed developed as a water retriever. Both the name and the famous haircut are practical: German *Pudel* comes from *pudeln*, to splash in water, and the traditional clip left fur over the joints and chest for warmth while shaving the rest to reduce drag. Fashion later exaggerated a working design.
- A curly-coated dog. *A standard poodle.*
- A subservient person. *A political poodle.*
- Poodle as a modifier. *A poodle clip.*
Word forms
| Form | Word | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Noun | poodle | A miniature poodle. |
| Plural | poodles | Two poodles. |
| German | Pudel | German *Pudel*. |
| Related | puddle | A muddy puddle. |
| Related | retriever | A golden retriever. |
How it is used in a sentence
- The clip was designed for swimming.Warmth over joints, less drag elsewhere.
- Poodle means splasher.German *pudeln*.
- Calling someone a poodle implies servility.Political insult.
Poodle facts
- Water dog — bred to retrieve waterfowl
- Three sizes — standard, miniature and toy
- Coat — continuously growing hair rather than shedding fur
- National dog of France — though the breed's origins are German
- Clip — the traditional style is functional in origin
From German *Pudel*, short for *Pudelhund*, from *pudeln*, to splash — related to English *puddle*.
Why do poodles have that haircut?
The traditional clip kept fur over the chest and joints for warmth in cold water while reducing drag elsewhere. It was working equipment.
Are poodles French?
The breed's origins are German, despite its association with France. The name is German for splasher.