I like labs for gentleness, but all the ones I had were like a rat on acid and chewed anything and everything.

The best dogs I've ever had, by far, were heelers. They are very smart and live to be outside working for you. They are good in the woods also, but idk about the bird hunting. They also make perfect companion dogs and will bond very closely to you. They are very protective of family.

I've always wanted a black mouth cur, for many of the same reasons as the heeler, but they have a strong hunting instinct.

All that being said, i think I'd look into the GSP. Those are some pretty dogs.