I think you are making the best decision for you. I am so glad your neighbor allowed a trial run that is good!
yes, labs and Goldens can be hyper but so can any dog. With lots of love, attention and some structure, I am confident you will find the perfect dog for your family, regardless of breed.
My sister has a Springer / lab mix that is excellant with her boys. They can climb all over him and he just lays there. I have a 4 year old Golden that loves them also - I do watch her around them tho b/c they are very boisterous and kind of rough and she isn't used to that and and she has hip dysplasia so I have to watch that they stay away from her back end. I don't want her to defend herself. I usually tell them my bite is worse then her's!

Quote Originally Posted by Vette
Labs are also hyper.
but most dogs in the shelters and rescues are Lab mixes. You would have a harder time finding one that wasn't considered "lab"..

Good luck!