My sister has a poodle. They are so cute, but I had no idea they were originally bred in Germany. I think of German Shepherds and Dobermans when I think of German dogs. 
yeah, when I think of poodles I think of France :)
Me too. Especially when I see the standard sized all groomed and looking fancy. 
correct my if I am wrong but I think poodles were bred to hunt at first
I thing you are right. They think they originated as a type of German water dog. 
yeah, water dog, I think that is why they have curly hair
Portuguese have a water dog that rode with the fishermen when they went out to catch cod.