RE: Bird dog opinions???
I can see you all have a soft spot for the pointing breeds. I have hunted with flushing dogs all my life, and have always had enjoyable hunts. I'd like to throw my opinion in for English springers. Currently I have a two year old field bred. I hunted everything from chucker in Idaho to blue quail in south west Kansas all with succuss. I do agree with the gentleman who stated that the breed you start with seems to be the one you stick with thought out your huntin life.
Regardless, it is the dog that makes the hunt.