Poodle History

Ah, poodles! The official national dog of France, beloved of old ladies, punks who love pink and purple hair dye, and talented circus performers ever since people figured out that kids and dogs will earn tips on the street, in the square or under the big top.

The first official notice of poodles appears on Roman and Greek coins from ~30 a.d., though suspiciously poodle-like hunting dogs are found in the detailed pictorial histories on tomb walls in Egypt and Mesopotamia. Where, legend has it, they were lion-hunters. When they weren’t the pampered pets of the ruling and priestly classes, that is. These would have been the big guys - “Imperials” - that Napoleon favored so highly.

The Romans had learned the value of large, intelligent dogs in the art of warfare from the natives of Britain, Ireland and the Norse and Teutonic warriors who made such strategic use of the fearless Irish Wolfhounds known for removing heads quite readily from soldiers in battle. Legend also has it that mighty Beowolf commanded such a dog, who never left his side and killed more enemies and monsters than the chieftain did.

Poodles were famous through the Middle Ages as exceptional war dogs, though their natural affinity for water allowed them to become famous Navy and yachting dogs. Known as “Water Spaniels” they performed flushing and retriever duties, and never managed to develop the fear of guns that many other dogs harbor. They were familiar companions to generals all the way through World War 2.

They’ve been used in falconry, and as truffle dogs, herders, guide dogs, HEDs and other special skills dogs because they are so intelligent and eager to please. The big standards and imperials were not common sights among the bourgeoisie until modern times, but have been favorites among circus performers and trained dog acts since Medieval times.

For more great information about the history of these wonderful dogs, check out: The Poodle History Project.

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Filed under History, Poodle Lore, Sporting, Working |