a shorthaired bird dog mixed with a lab, you see them all the time for cheap or free.
Theres a reason u see them all the time for free or cheap cuz they are worthless in the field. The have niether a good point or a strong retrieve. Stay away from a mix.
I know some shorthaired dogs will hit ice cold water like a chessie, but there are many others that won't
A GSP will not be able to take the cold most of those dogs are shivering cold after 15 mins of sitting still in 30°-35°. Go with a GWHP if u want a pointer/retriever. Caution: When out hunting ive seen one drown, if this is the route ur going get a float vest. As far as shedding i dont think that they shed that much.
BLAH labs are overrated! My chessie is all business, no play. I get annoyed by the labs that won't leave you alone.
Ill admit chessies are probably better duck dogs, but who couldnt fall in love with a lab? besides if lab werent all playful u'd think something was wrong with it.
All in all every dog sheds, just tell them to get use it.
1. GSP - Best Upland Dog
2. GWHP - A Little Bit Of Both (it will have a strong retrieve or a stong point, but does both)
3. Lab - Most Friendly, All It Wants Is To Please (This is prolly your best bet)
4. Chessie - Strong Hunter, Can Take Anything (These dogs are not small, they are larger then a lab)