Oddly, the clipping of poodles WAS for hunting purposes. The hair was left on their joints so they wouldn't stiffen up when crouching in wait, while it was trimmed short on the torso to aid in swimming.

A poodle would view its grooming as a macho badge of courage, and would take offense to anyone who mocked it.

http://www.pedigree.com/All-Things-Dog/Article-Library/A-Short-History-of-Poodle-Grooming-.aspx