Checkout the miniature Schnauzer. They were originally bred for hunting. They are extremely smart, athletic, and very good around kids. Another benefit is that they shed very little.

My brother's dog is part ACD, part Pit and part Lab. She is one of the two smartest dogs I've ever known, the other being my own GSD (RIP). She'll run until she drops from exhaustion, and that takes some doing.

A mutt that is growing in popularity is the goldendoodle. My big boy is 10 and the sweetest dog I’ve ever owned. He’s smart and very easy to train. Won’t roundup cattle though.

Truly appreciate everyone's comments. Sometimes I can get tunnel vision so the different perspectives helps.

Bob (Rbert), this is all taking place before the end of the year so not too far in the future.

With regards to the climate, we will be in Maryland 3 years then likely another round of Hawaii>Korea>California/Maryland. Nothing too extreme one way or another.

Heeler's overall demeanor and toughness are what pull me to them. I also agree that rescuing a dog is one of the bets things folks can do. So ideally I can get in touch with one of these rescue outfits and satisfy both desires.

We have a large enough family that there will NEVER be an absence of love, the biggest concern will always be an absence of discipline outside of myself .