I don't know anything about vermin control, so I can't say if a Lab would be any help there. Perhaps you could contact either the Labrador Retriever parent club, or another Lab training group/club. As for Labs being softer, from my experience around Labs, I'd say they are slower to mature, but very bidable. The breed seems to always want to make their master happy. I must add; I've never owned a Lab, but they are 2nd on my "next dog list". I am a Springer fan who is currently shooting over a Setter. The wife prefers Labs however.

Good luck, and let us know what you decide.