Id definitely go with a GSP based solely on hunting, i may be biased but i think the GSP has a definite edge in that type of hunting. labs are great too but i think their niche is cold weather waterfowling. ive seen good upland labs but it seems to me they are generally harder to train them for this purpose and never quite get as enthusiastic. i have a 9 month GSP male and i think he's the best dog in the world. jack of all trades IMO. im not a very good dog trainer but he pretty much took to it naturally. was never gun shy, he'sactually attracted to gun shots. virtually impossible to tire out. absolutely resilient, tough and determined. the only disadvantage is their short coat but in texas it should be an advantage plus ive never seen him discouraged by the weather. neverer complains, will jump in ice water to retrieve. outstanding family dog, lots of fun and very sweet.

however, i always say i wouldnt recomend these dogs to anyone but the most patient and loving owner. as much as we love ours, he has been extremely difficult at times. the very traits that make him such a good hunter make him a difficult dog to housetrain. they require LOTS of exercize, they are quite hyper, they chase cats, he was hard to potty train, quick learner but stubborn and hard to break bad habits. quite destructive. doesnt handle being alone very well, and they are very rambunctious and wouldnt be a very good dog for the elderly or the meek. i see alot of free ones in the paper around 1 year old an i can see why.