Are dogs just a meme or do they make good /out/ companions?

I want a dog to take with me fishing in my canoe, both day hikes and overnight backpacking trips, going for runs on a trail, even just a car camping trip. I dont want a retard dog that I have to keep on a leash but I cant trust it not to just run off, or attack another dog if it sees one, or jump out of my canoe. Basically one that can take care of itself for the most part.

Is border collie a good breed to go with?