I think I am gonna stick with a male. The breeder is repuatable. he is an avid hunter and breeds his dogs to be companion/hunters. he specifically says that although once in awhile someone will show a dog for conformation, he breeds his dogs to hunt. Those are the traits he focuses on when he breeds. He also has labs and states on his page that his labs are not this or that (whatever it was that makes them a good show dog vs. hunting dog.)
I think that what I will do is let the breeder know what traits I require/would like and let him pick. I have spoken to him often enough that I am sure he knows already what kind of dog I want as well as my favorit color! He is probably sick of talking to me on the phone. <img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle>

His bloodlines are good and from all of our discussions, I have a bit of trust in him. As well, if he gave me a bum pup, not only is there a guarantee with it, I would guess that word of mouth is a big thing in the industry and having folks say that you have bad pups is not a great way to run a business. so, I have a bit of faith. He has been around for awhile which leads me as well to believe that he is good at what he does.

As for the alpha male, I have just been told that they are the stubborn ones and most difficult to train out of all of the dogs. Regardless of showing them that I am alpha, they still require that to be shown to them every few weeks in an active display of dominance. (In one of the training books I have read, it was laying on top of the dog while grabbing its muzzle.) I don't want to have to do this to my dog on a regular basis.

But, thanks for all the help. it has been really helpful. If you think of other things, just post 'em. i will keep watching!

beej