If you're thinking about getting a flushing/retrieving breed—one of those friendly, energetic springer/Labrador/golden retriever types that’ll dive into the thickest thicket to roust birds at your feet—good luck overcoming its inherent defect.
When Tom Foster's springer spaniel didn't finish a retrieve, the Minnesota hunter went looking for him. He found the do, on its back, unconscious and drowning at the bottom of a 6-foot hole.
We all have our favorite breeds, and many times we're especially proud of the versatility they offer. At one time most dogs were fairly specialized, but these days the same dog can point quail, fetch ducks and even hunt down predators. Their noses and intelligence are also far more developed than what early breeders probably could've imagined.