I think the German Shorthairs are the thing now.

Poodle? just a joke, right?

Just in case you arent joking, believe it, you need to use real hunting breeds. For example, bird dogs actually have an specific instinct for hunting birds bred into them, and other instincts are bred into hunting dogs. Also, generally, these other dogs don't have a good enough nose.

If your friend's allergic to dander, might look into an English cocker spaniel. They do shed but not so much if brushed. A friend that is allergic to dogs can still tolerate hers. If he doesn't want hair, period, then a standard poodle might be a choice. Believe it or not, there are some lines that hunt upland and duck.

If you ever intend to hunt ducks and geese, I would suggest you consider a lab because they can do that and hunt upland game with the best of them. If you are just staying on dry land, those mentioned above will be great. We have used labs for continuous quail, pheasant, duck and goose hunting for over 40 years and I can honestly tell you that they have never been outhunted by any of the above breeds although the above breeds did just as well on quail.

Don't go with a poodle. Big Mistake. Look for a hound. They are really cool dogs.