Definatly find a puppy that will suit your needs as well as suiting the needs of the dog. My Setters make great house pets however, they have alot of drive. They will eventaly go hunting with or without you so you just can't turn one loose to run around in the neigborhood. I like for my children to go to homes were they will be hunted and cared for. I do not sale to folks or plantations that will put one of my dogs in a kennel and leave them alone untill time to hunt sometime next season.
I spent alot of time findingall the thing i wanted in a bird dog and pet.
I think the things we all see in great dogs
clean in the kennel
easily house broke
does not eat like a wild beast
loves people and wants effection never growls or barks at someone
Non aggresive to other dogs
willing to please you not doing something for fear of punishment
easily learns has intelligence you can see in their eyes
Some Things that make a great bird dog
THe NOse
style
bottom and drive (how many people actualy own a all day bird dog)
Bird sense (something mom and dad have to put there)
everything else can be learned to a degree
Training and opertunity is one of keys to success
http://www.gundogsbirddogs.com