http://www.bigdawg-dir.com/Dogs_and_Puppies/Dog_Breeds/Toy_Poodle/Pet and Animal Directory consisting of common animals and pets from around the world. Quality links and resources are contained inside the Big Dawg Pet and animal directory.Add your links today and help us grow to be the biggest on the web. The Poodle is a specif dog, specifically it is a gun dog noted for its ability in the water and bird hunting skills. The English name comes from the German noun Pudel, shortened from Pudelhund from the German verb pudeln/puddeln. In France, Portugal and Spain, the Poodle is known as a caniche. Poodles have coats that grow to an extent that caring for them is managed well only if their coats are trimmed regularly and expertly. Originally the coats were trimmed in order to protect vital organs. The Poodle's thick coat can become extremely heavy when wet. In fact, if not trimmed and combed, serious skin problems can develop. Unlike the "show coats" that are mandatory for the show ring, the sporting clips are easily managed and show off the grand look of the Standards and smaller poodles as well. The Poodle is often thought of as a typically French breed . It is an old breed and its region of origin is a matter of contention. Most experts believe the Poodle originated in Central Europe or Russia. However, it may also have come from Iberia.