Ive hunted with lads and springers but my dog of choice is the english pointer the best all around dog for upland bird hunting.....and is also a great family dog

One more vote for the Labs. I have had 3 in my life so far have one right now (other 2 have passed on) Great dogs for water or field/woods. Hunting season is only a few mounths out of the year so you have to make sure u have a dog you love to have around all year long. Take in consideration thier coat. I live in Minnesota so having a good coat for cold weather is important. My wife is allergic to dogs so he has to stay out side all year long. If you live whare it is hot out a short hair pointer would be a good choice. or if you want a smaller dog britnys or springers are good water dogs and field dogs also.

"Posted By rburrows6 on 01 Aug 2010 10:33 AM
My springer weighs 42lbs and wiil actually get up under the mats of briars to find birds. my English chocolate lab 110 sometimes size matters. "

I have two chocolate labs...one american and one british.  They can go anywhere a spaniel or brittany goes, but neither of them are anywhere near 110.  110 pounds is extraordinarily large for a labrador.  If you can though, post a picture of your chocolate.  I'm just recently into British labs as my pup is one and I'd love to see a picture of yours.