I'm not debating rather than sharing the thoughts running in my over-analyzing head:
The dogs here are all clipped (old english sheep dog) to different lengths:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/oldenglishsheepdogphotos.htm
There are a lot of people who are against clipping/shaving dogs that naturally have lots of hair or fur. However, I am pro-clip,clip. For every negative, I've heard a positive from many experienced show breeders (who imo are the best source of info as they have been around these animals more than anyone). Many people who own dogs with tons of hair encourage you to clip 1 inch around for easy maintenance, and lighter happier dog.
My short-haired cat was definitely not meant to be "shaved" but I do it and that has cut this average shedder to a low shedder. Plus, she's never coughed up anything AND afterwards, you just can tell she likes it (she's always purring for a long time when shaved).
This is just me. My FI is an extreme doglover too. I am trying to be open-mind to other dogs that do not fall into the "low shedding" category. He was already given all his options after extensive research for different breeds, but now it's my turn to consider his list.
Anyways, this enables me to own such a dog. I am on the edge right now with the OES. I really want one, but I am well aware of what "Heavy shedder" means. Having being around enough German Shepards --- ugh (it's like tumbleweeds that fly around the pound I worked at).
I still love your input. Please know that just b/c I share a different opinion, doesn't mean your opinion isn't in the back of my mind. It is.
My choice is a goldendoodle (only from a certain breeder - as there are WAY too many bad breeders who don't know what they're doing here) or a havanese and/or coton de tulear. All have hair, so shed like a human would (little to none).