I think if you want something calmer and more well behavied, an older dog is definetly a better choice. I own a lab, and although she loves to run and play and gets excited, she is a very calm dog at home. She will lay down with me if I'm laying down or being lazy, or she will jump right up to go and play. Whatever I'm doing is what she is doing!

Goodluck finding the perfect dog! I'm glad to hear you didn't get the first thing you saw only ending up to regret it!