Im after a lab but just a bit to big.?

Hi im an experienced dog owner who is looking to get the first family dog. me and wife both love labs but although our first family home has a large back garden the house its self is quite small so i think a lab may be a bit to big. Kids is on the cards for the next couple years so any breed would have to be good with children and we dont like long haired or curly haired dogs. Also a breed that does shed TO much would be great. Is there any sugestions of breeds that are smooth coated like the lab abd just as friendly but maybe a bit smaller? Iv looked at beagles but they have a rep for being a bit snappy with kids. Thanks, John.