You definitely want some to find somebody to knows the ropes. Waterfowling is an expensive hobby and for me it is and addiction.

Gear is expensive. Waders, Calls all that fun stuff. My best advice is to learn to call from somebody who knows what they are doing so you don't form any bad habits.

As far as a dog goes lab's are great, but I would findf somebody who has a dog already. The best way is definitely to have somebody show you the ropes, and like Dev said shoot em in the lips.