A border collie is such a smart dog, too. My friend has a mixed one, from a shelter. She gets along with my dog.
My big “woolly mammoth“ has been a constant companion and I have had great fun teaching him tricks. (YouTube has great videos.)
He knows when I feel my worst and cuddles up. Oh those eyes! They speak volumes. He is so thrilled just to go out in my yard with me. He runs in huge circles of joy to celebrate. So much fun to watch. He is a great source of comfort and laughter.
I can’t walk him on the beach like I once did, but we do have a local dog park, now, and he has has a wonderful time there. I get to chat with other dog owners. It’s so much fun to see and meet the other dogs, too.