The happiest poodles I have known were only given haircuts in the late spring.
And that only for comfort, because poodle fur is thick and heavy.
No bouffants. No poofs. No bows. A lot of brushing, though.
They're very smart. They were originally bred at water dogs and hunting retrievers, so splashing around is quite natural. They have both muscle and grace. They aren't finicky, and are generally quite friendly.
These are standard poodles, though. I think the miniature breeds of anything tend to be yappy and high-strung.
Don't let the American Kennel Club get ya with their clippers, and you'll be proud to be a poodle.