This thread has really interested me. I just read through all 10 pages.
I admit, after first joining dog forums, I had this "I can't own a BC" in my head because of how I've heard HOW much exercise they really need and I kind of wrote off herding breeds in general just because of the horror stories and thought I couldn't handle it.
But honestly? I see lots of just "normal" pet owners (whose dogs are mainly house pets, let out in the backyard a few times a day, and maybe taken on a few walks a week) who have breeds like GSD's, Aussie's, Dobermans, etc and they all do just fine. Sure maybe it's not ideal... and I think there ARE certain breeds that you definitely should research more into than others... but in general, I think that's what is so great about dogs - they are really adaptable.
But I agree with a lot of what's been said about individuals and just peoples personality, etc. For a lot of people, Jackson would probably be a really annoying hard dog but for me, he's PERFECT. Yet my step-mom's Dachshund mix is so unwilling to do much of anything but cuddle and be loved on... you can try to lure him with food, and he won't even follow the food and it drives me CRAZY. I can't even imagine having a dog that is so unwilling to learn, or even try lol. But for her? It's perfect. He doesn't really require much of anything - just enjoys going on a car ride or two with her, lounging around all day, and giving kisses and love. If you don't get Jackson some form of exercise or mental stimulation in a day, he will probably drive you nuts from boredom. I think MOST people just would prefer dogs to go lounge, and not bother them, or need much in terms of exercise. But I also kind of sculpted Jackson into what he is, because I started very early on with training and exercise and doing social things, etc... had he, from a young age, just been mostly ignored... I think he would have learned to adapt.