I would also look into a Field Dog Stud Book (FDSB) registered dog. Unlike the AKC, FDSB are hunting/field trial lines. Most will not have any bench or show lines in their ancestry. They have all manners of hunting breeds registered, pointers, setters, visulas, german short hairs, etc.

FDSB and AKC are somewhat mutally exclusive although you may find a line dually registered. But the common is FDSB only and AKC only. FDSB is owned by American Field out of NY and is actually older than AKC.

As to my choice, EP is a great first dog, but not people oriented. You can't go wrong with them. They just need alot of exercise. English Setter is like a Pointer but more people friendly. Don't range as far. German Short Hair/Visulas/Germain Wire Hair I have no experience with. Brittany Spaniel is very close ranging and attached to one person.