Ours is five years old, an F1 who has more spaniel characteristics than poodle.
They don’t shed, or very little, are suitable for people who are allergic to dogs, are classed as companion dogs as they love to be part of the family, are lovely natured, easy to train.
We too got ours when there was some family stuff going on and he certainly made a huge difference, took the focus off the bad things and brought the smiles back to our faces again.
I care not one jot what people think about the cost of them, in the same way I care not one jot that some folk spend a fortune on designer handbags or shoes, or other things I wouldn’t. It’s their money and their choice.