Chuck:
Buy what you fall in love with. You will work better with that pup and you are going to have it for 10 to 14 years. For me that has always been Setters and GSP but there are plenty of breeds that will get the job done. For warm weather and style a English Pointer would be hard to beat but I am not sure how affectionate they are, never owned one.

I would talk with a number of renowned trainers before going with an exotic breed. They should be able to give you a honest read on the breed and will not have a vested interest in the breed.

Mike