I'm looking at this breed (s) (depending on who you talk to) as a versatile hunting dor, able to retrieve waterfowl, track wonded deer, and work upland birds. I'd appreciate andy info, opinions, cautions, etc.

Thanks

I wont get into the politics of the GWP verses DD, but all the GWPs came from DD beginings. Looks like you have already done some research, its really up to you what your choice is, a well bred GWP trained in the VDD critera should be the same as a trained DD. Picking a pup is the same no matter what breed of dog it is (coat, eyes, bite, HD free, conformation, etc.), also I would advise that you join a club that is geared towards the training of the versatile breeds (I dont know what level of trainer you are). To properly finish a dog your going to need help lots of help, to lay down drags, blood trails, people to shoot properly handeled birds while YOU control/handel the dog, etc. . Good luck on your new family member.

Thanks Seadog.