I absolutely love Labs! My Aunt breeds and owns Labs, she participates in tracking, field trials, agility and dock diving...they are definitely a versitle breed! I have one little Labby mix boy and he is the best dog I could ask for.

The only think I would really stress is make sure you find a good reputable breeder (one with a history of outstanding temperments, good hips, elbows, eyes, etc). Since they are so popular there are many horrible representations of the breed because of back yard breeders.

I really wouldn't call Labs hyper, they just have a lot of energy. I know if Jack (my Lab x) doesn't get a walk everyday he becomes much more restless and tends to get bored and destroys things.

As far as shedding goes...Jack really doesn't shed too much but my Aunt's Labs can shed like crazy. I think it also depends on what kind of food you feed too.

I would also suggest looking in shelters, there are tons of Labs and lab mixes that need homes, its practically the only breed of dog in shelters around here and most are really good dogs. Thats where I found my Jack dog!