Standard poodles were bred as water retrievers. The froo-froo hair over the joints and head is to keep them warm. The short hair is to help them swim through water.
No one has convinced my dog of this yet. He hates swimming. (but he will retrieve)
The big size is the original size. In Europe, they are considered a working breed. They were bred down in size after that.
The breed standard is for a calm, intelligent dog. Will someone please tell that to Biscuits?