Thanks for the responses fellows! You're giving me many things upon which to ruminate.
Even my little American Water Spaniel tended to be hard-mouthed so I know what that's all about. I don't recall if I ever broke him of it and therefore would appreciate any tips on the subject.
As for average temperatures, it's cool here tonight in Eastern Venezuela.....which means it's gotten down into the low 70's!!!! Basically, hunting temperatures will run anywhere from the mid 70's to the mid to upper 80's. Having said that, I will often be hunting in the vicinity of water as that's what draws a lot of birds to a given area.
Are there any breeds that would outperform others in these kinds of temperatures?
El Gringo