I've wanted one for years, but I'm just not in a place where I can properly care for them. I don't even think I can handle a less intelligent dog, since my spare time is taken up with hobbies, my spouse, and my young children, none of which want to consistently care for a dog.
I think far too many people aren't aware of just how much work taking good care of a dog is. I'm grateful for some co-workers that explained the time needed to properly care for a dog, which helped me realize it wasn't going to be a good fit for me.
A dog's intelligence doesn't have much relationship to how much you have to care for it. In fact, smart dogs are often more work because they can be destructive when bored. They can also be very good at escaping, stealing, or pestering you.
It's easy to go to a shelter and find a dog that's 2+ years old with a known history of being safe around kids. Whether or not it's intelligent, you can select it for appearance and ease of care.
I think far too many people aren't aware of just how much work taking good care of a dog is. I'm grateful for some co-workers that explained the time needed to properly care for a dog, which helped me realize it wasn't going to be a good fit for me.