They are much more "manly" than your husband would think (they're a herding dog) - I guess it's the short legs that make them look a little toy-like.
If I got a herding dog, though, I believe I'd get a Border Collie (I'm used to high energy dogs, now . . . )
I was really considering a Border Collie for awhile, because I wanted a running companion. However, from the pictures I've seen, they look a little too slender. I've got some little kids (the oldest is three) and I'd like a thick, sturdy dog that will be able to withstand any unintentional damage... I've pretty much narrowed my options down to a Bull Terrier, an Australian Shepherd or a Corgi.