Obviously, I run GSP's. The non-shedding issue...(and somebody please correct me if I'm wrong), but the flushers that I know of are typically long haired = shedding and the GSP's and other upland shorthaired dogs..well they shed as well. You're fighting a losing battle with that request. As far as a family pet, labs are good, GSP's are good, I'm sure a springer spaniel is good, etc. It mostly comes down to how much you associate your new pet to the family and other dogs which will bring the "lover" out in the dog. As far as hyperactivity goes, any true upland will always want to get out and run. Take for example, the GSP in my avatar. He used to love to run and be trained and while in the house liked to get into trouble and never sit still and always running around in our yard (when we lived in town). The other GSP I have is basically a lap dog and would love to sit on the couch all day long but he still loves to get out and run 1-2 times a day...probably more since we've moved to the country. Bottom line is, an upland dog NEEDS to be run on a daily basis, not only b/c they want to but also to keep them conditioned....that is, if you want a hard charger that won't walk behind you 20 minutes into a hunt. Hopefully this helps a bit and doesn't sound too harsh. PM me if you have more questions!!