How is the haircut of poodles utilitarian?

Answer 1

Are you bored?

Answer 2

The way that they are groomed for the show ring now really isn't very utilitarian, but it is a polished and overdone version of an old hunter's cut that was used on the dogs. Standard poodles were originally waterfowl retrievers in very cold areas. Because of how cold the water was, hair was needed to protect the major joints and chest, but due to the heavy nature of the coat, the dog could work much more efficiently if as much extraneous hair not protecting the joints or chest was shaved off. Enter the lion cut on the poodle, hair where you need it, but not where you don't. The show ring has far overdone this cut, and I wouldn't send a show dog out to retrieve a bird in those cuts, they would probably sink due to too much coat (go figure), but in earlier history, it did have a purpose.

Answer 3

Today it isn't at all utilitarian.

Originally, that puffy cut was to keep those joints warm as the dogs were going in and out of water in the winter retrieving birds while the cut away areas kept the dogs from water logging by carrying too much water.

Answer 4

It is not utilitarian. They were bred as hunting dogs. The longer hair is protection and shorter hair is to please the people that own them.
Standard Poodles were serious hunting dogs.

Answer 5

Do you mean Utility or kennel cut? I have pictures of several poodle cuts on my website, check it out!

http://www.standardpoodlesusa.com/clip-styles.html

Answer 6

Haha, this just made me laugh out loud. Good question though.

My guess is that it helps having the majority of the dog clipped short so that the hair doesn't pick up leaves, dirt, sticks and whatnot. The "poofs" are probably more for show. I would guess if you googled what poodles were originally bred for it may shine some light on this very important topic. :)

Thanks for stimulating my brain and making me laugh!

Answer 7

which cut?
most likely tho, the cut u r referring to was to do what is stated above: keep the important stuff warm.

Answer 8

Just a very basic cut. No frills.