I am the odd man out on this topic because I would stronly suggest the Boykin. Neither the springer or the Boykin are trained to point, being flushing dogs. Both will handle whatever you are going to do. The Boykin is probably the best small retriever one could have. One has to be careful because the inccidence of hip dysplasia is very high in Boykins, but they are a small dog so the hips won't break down as in a larger dog. I would not hesitate bringing a Boykin in my home.

Dr Fatguy