[brytlea]

I used to teach obedience classes. All the standard poodles I had in class were quite bright. They were silly clowns, but very bright. Border collies are smart, but that is not nec a plus in all instances. If they are not working they can be quite a handful.

[Vigilanteman]

I don't think your experience was all that difference from my father's. People love poodles precisely because they are such clowns. They are a very appropriate dog for a city person who needs occasional companionship and interaction.

A border collie is a working dog that needs to keep busy. They are most appropriate for an older boy (let's say 8 or older with some sense of responsibility), a retired person with a lot of time or a country person who has livestock and chores. It isn't a dog which will be happy with a nightly walk and a few tummy rubs when the owner is home.