standard poodle

i am considering getting a standard poodle. i want a dog that is bigger
(not a toy anything) and that is smart enough to learn tricks and stuff. i
do like the show shed aspect but don't like the show look of them (with
puffs of hair everywhere and shaved in other spots). is there another way
to maintain the hair (all one length maybe)? any thoughts on this breed
choice for me? is it a good one for what i am looking for? do males or
females tend to be smarter? how about attachment? i heard females bond to
only one person and males to a whole family. i will have the dog living
with me only as i am single now but one day done the road i expect to have a
house full (with a husband and some kids). any thoughts? thanks in
advance.

email jmh1116 RemoveThis @ptd.net