Siba, a black Standard Poodle, captivated the dog show world by winning Best in Show at the 144th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in February 2020. Her victory marked the fifth time a Standard Poodle had claimed the top honor at Westminster and the first since 1991 .

Standard Poodles have long been a standout in the show ring, known for their elegance, poise, and unmistakable presence. Behind the glamour, however, lies an immense amount of dedication. Hours of bathing, blow-drying, and precision grooming go into preparing a Poodle for competition. Their iconic trims aren’t just for style — they’re a tradition rooted in the breed’s working history and are now a symbol of the breed’s sophistication and flair.

Standard Poodles were originally bred in Germany as water retrieving dogs, valued for their intelligence, athleticism, and swimming ability. Their dense, curly coat provided insulation in cold water, making them ideal hunting companions. Today, they still excel in water sports like dock diving and continue to impress with their versatility and eagerness to work.