I’d not go with a collie, lovely dog but bred to work all the time, and I mean all the time!! So not an ideal pet for every one. The most content ones I’ve met have lived life herding cows or sheep, or sat in a farm vehicle!
Labs have a reputation as a family dog for a reason, Poodles are great dogs once you see past the Crufts show cut!! We have a Labraoodle a very lovely dog, will play fetch all day long with the kids ( or me 😉 ) loves walks swimming etc, will cuddle all day if possible! But he needs two good walks a day. Great with the kids and so friendly. He’s big though 35kgs and not fat at all. Agree with above hair everywhere…I once found some on the crown of my forks in the middle of Whites Level…. 😆
He sheds like crazy, that’s the lab side, and love to eat a toy to destruction!
Once we ( Mrs Wookster and me) decided to get a dog, we went and met lots of different breeds and then litters to see which pup was right for us, that includes meeting the mum and dad and the breeders. We didn’t set out for a Doodle, but once we’d met him and the parents we took the plunge.
One thing I’ll say, it’s like another kid, lots of attention needs training and this is really for ever, holidays with a dog are a laugh! Be prepared never to be alone as they like company eps Labs. I’d agree with above and say 4 hours max if they are left alone, and that would be after a walk! We let ours on the sofa, it’s our sofa, and it’s not a problem! He knows his place but is very much part of the family, won’t beg at the table, doesn’t steal food, toys, socks ( anymore!) kids love him, but they like all kids won’t be interested in feeding, walking them for too long!!
Oh and get pet insurance!! It’s a big step but well worth it, even in the rain and pitch black and rain in winter! I’d not e with out him I think he makes the house a home!