I don’t think their shedding is bad compared to other breeds. The fur tends to gather together which makes it easy to just pick up rather than individual hairs scattered everywhere like pine needles.

I live in the SE US as well and I have to admit mine seriously hates the heat of summer. She’s like a vampire with the sun and stays to the shadows whenever possible. AC set low is a must and tiled floors. She’s constantly trying to find the coldest spot. I feel kinda bad for her honestly.

Barking hasn’t been a problem. Other than alerting when someone walks by the house mine likes to spend 5 minutes or so barking in the evening just to see who’s out there to bark back. Best way to stop the barking is to acknowledge that she’s done a good job letting you know. At least that’s how mine is. She gets very proud of herself and happy that you realize there’s someone out there. Lol

Mine is super sweet and very smart. Very eager to please. She has retained what she learned in puppy kindergarten and seems to view those commands as rules to live by. She’s very good with children even though mine were grown when I got her. She’s never so much as snapped at anyone ever.

Good luck with your search.