I've really enjoyed reading the posts in this thread.
I read somewhere that the Poodle is the smartest breed.
I've never owned a Poodle, but can attest that Heelers are incredibly smart! They are so alert too - you can't do anything without their knowledge! And they never forget anything.....and I mean never.
Here's one of several videos I put together about 10 years ago featuring my 2 girls. We lost Billabong - the smaller one with the docked tail, a year or so ago to Lymphoma. She was a rescue from Louisiana that showed up on Petfinder back in '06. The footage of her on the futon wrestling with my other Heeler, Winkipop, was taken just a day after we picked her up. Amazing how well those 2 got along from day 1. Of course Billabong knew right away Winkipop was the Alpha. Pack mentality!
Winkipop turns 17 in March!
As to the thread theme.....this breed routinely uses their hands, something I found pretty remarkable. Check out Winkipop at the 2 minute mark working on her Mini-Kong to get at the peanut butter.......