re: OB I need your opinion

If I were to get something that was going to be a "duck fetcher" as it's main purpose in life, would get something with a proven track record. While it may be more than a "free" dog, the purchase price of any dog is your cheapest investment in owning a dog for a lifetime.

Not to say the mix breed can't retrieve ducks, I just like to tip my odds in my favor as once I commit to a dog it's mine even if it doesn't pan out as a duck dog.