[WHSmithIV]

OK - My wife has bred purebred dogs for decades and knows every breed of dog there is. So, I asked her to be on the safe side before I posted this (pretty much knowing the answer). There is no answer until you define the parameters you want the dog to meet.

First - what do you want to hunt with your dog? A dog for bird hunting isn't going to be very good at deer or bear hunting. Dog breeds were created over time for specific traits. If I want to hunt squirrels I wouldn't expect a retriever to help - it's not in their nature to go after squirrels. Terriers are better at that and most specifically Airedales.

The Airedale was created as mans all around general purpose breed and I'll guarantee you they will go after anything small. Badgers, raccoon's, squirrels - doesn't matter. So, for what you seem to be aiming for, get an Airedale.

Lastly, it is unlikely that you will find a dog 2 or 3 years old who already knows just what to do with you and what you want from him/her. You really should get one as a pup and train it. Then, when you go hunting your dog will always know what to expect and what to do for you. Airedales are also fantastic friends!