There is alot of good input here for you to decide on. Myself I like
the Irish Setter they are very good with small children and have been
noted to get between children and trouble.Their history tells you they can be very versatile.They can run big when needed and be brought in close ranging when the need requires.I hunt open fields and the big cedar/alder
swamps here with them.I do not care for duck hunts, however my Irish loves water. I had to pull him out of the ice this spring as he had seen water and decided to jump in on me. For as far as being left alone that could be a problem for a young one. As they do not like being bored. Although I had a friend who had one loose and that one stayed around
for him really well.

The biggest down fall is finding the hunting variety and not the show,
so good luck on what you decide.