From proud standard poodles to tiny toys, this is a type of dog which is known the world over.
They are often portrayed in films and television as high maintenance, snooty, and, frankly, divas – perhaps due to their immaculate coats and specific grooming standards seen in the show ring.
But poodles of all shapes and sizes are intelligent, active, and loving dogs which make the perfect pets. Here are 10 facts you may not know about the poodle.
5. Toy poodles are not toys
Toy poodles were bred in the early 20th century as the ultimate companion dog. But their tiny stature does not mean you should treat them like a baby - like their larger cousins they are extremely intelligent and active animals. Photo: Getty Images
6. Poodle means "to splash"
The word poodle derives from the old German word "puddeln" which means "to splash". This is quite apt as their original job was as a water retriever, and their love of water stays with them to this day. Photo: Getty Images
7. There are dozens of ways to style a poodle
Although the Continental look may be best known, there are many trims which are now accepted on a poodle. The teddy bear look (pictured) is one of the most recent (and adorable) styles but there is also the clown cut, New Yorker trim, lamb trim, puppy cut, and many more. Photo: Getty Images
8. There are (almost) endless poodle crossbreeds
You've most likely heard of the labradoodle and the cockapoo, but in recent years the breeding of poodle crossbreeds has exploded. There are now maltipoos, goldendoodles, schnoodles, yorkipoos, pomapoos, shihpoos, and poochons to name but a few. Photo: Getty Images