I am interested in a bird dog for pheasant, can anyone recommend a breed that is also a good family dog?

The first thing I always like to mention to people about buying a hunting dog is that I hope they are aware they are buying a dog that has been breed for hunting all day.  This usually translates into buying lots of rawhides, plenty of walks and exercise and more than your share of commands for the dog to stop getting excited at every Robin, rabbit, squirrel or whatever else is in your yard.  The fact that you are asking some questions is a good sign that you have already started to think about the importance and ramifications of what you are about to do.

If you're ready for the stuff above, then I would start by having an honest conversation with yourself about what you are looking for (upland game only or do you also want to hunt waterfowl, etc.) do you prefer a pointer or flusher (if you've had the opportunity to hunt behind both) what type of temperment do you have and how much patience do you have for training.  You will also want to think about family.  Do you have any?  Will you be adding any?  Etc.  Be honest!  You will owe it to yourself and the animal that will be your companion for the next 12 years (+/-).

Sorry to sound so matter of fact, but to me this is an important decision and you should make it with the same level of thought.  If you can give us some insite into what you are looking for, we can better help you with suggestions.

I hope you understand this and that it helps in some way.  I'd be happy to give some suggestions too if you can give me some better insite.

My boxer is 8 years old, had cancer, and still runs around kncking the kids over and acting like a puppy. Great dog, just too much slobber and energy. My English Setter was laid back and would actually let you pet her.

Archer, if I had to make a recommendation on a "calm" family dog that hunts, I would say either a Lab for flusher or English Setter for a pointer.  If you are looking for something a little more off beat that is really laid back and a wonderful hunter you could also go with a Clumber Spaniel.

http://www.akc.org/breeds/clumber_spaniel/index.cfm

I do.  He told me that they are tremendously thorough in the field, are always under control and hunt at a "gentlemans" pace.  Perfect for those of us who are becoming , umh, how do I say this politely; Rubenesque.  He said it is a wonderful housedog.  It was very patient with his grandkids and family.  His only comment was that it would sometimes get excited if a stranger or another dog came in the yard.  It was never aggressive or anything, just barked at them.  I also stress the sometimes because it didn't happen all of the time.  This could be viewed as a good thing too.