What breeding would you look at, generally speaking, that might have a higher chance of throwing calmer dogs?  I know there is no absolute and that dogs are individuals, but are there genralities i.e. lines that aren't as "hot" as others?  I read about this occasionally, but I don't know enough about the breed to make an informed opinion.  I'm up in the air about owning another shorthair - they are truly awesome dogs, but they can be a handful.  Mine is old, but still a pistol. I love 'er, but...

What's the point in having a Ferrari without the horsepower? 

I would agree with pixie. I really would not describe GSPs as hyper, but instead would say they are high energy and as a sporting breed they definitely need a job. All that said though, I have 4 and they live in the house with me and are just as happy curled up on the sofa watching TV with me as they are out running a field. Also, GSPs are very smart dogs and I think the mental work is as important for them as the physical work. I do some level of training with all of my dogs every day and they also get exercise in their backyard every day. On weekends and some weekdays (when my job allows the time) they also get runs in fields or we hike or bike.

As to your question, I think the best way to assess would be to meet at least the mother and if you have access the dad too.  Also, when you call a breeder tell them what you are looking for in a pup and a good breeder will be able to tell you if his or her lines would fit your requirements.

I mean calm around the house and yard.  In the field, I like horsepower, but I don't need a Ferrari - I just need a Volvo - enough style to get the job done, but not too much car for everyday commutes.  I hear a lot about "hot" bloodlines.  Well, what are they?  I want an everyday year-round dog.  What are the bloodlines to look at?  I like a closer ranging gsp - not a 30 yard dog, but not a 300 yard dog either.  Once i have a better idea of what certain bloodlines typically produce, I can make better decisions when researching breeders. 

Thanks!

I plan to hunt the dog on upland and waterfowl, mainly upland.  I like watching the dog sort things out, so a closer-working dog is what I prefer. In real open country, I don't mind the dog stretching out a little and covering more ground.  I also like a moderate-paced dog - I'm not into field trials, but will work through NAVHDA to learn and train the dog.  This is to be my fourth dog - second gsp.  I need a good family dog above all else.  I don't know much about lines except some of the big names like Hege-Haus, Rawhide, Strativarius, etc. What i don't know is the type of breedings that are MOST LIKELY to throw the kind of dog that I want.

I've considered the griff route, since they fit the steroetype of what I'm describing, but I like gsps, so there's the dilemma.