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How did pointing and retrieving dogs assist hunters?

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A Labradoodle dog runs energetically through grass with a stick in its mouth, ears flopping and tail raised. — dog A Labradoodle is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, a mix intended to incorporate the Poodle's intelligence and low-shedding coat with a Lab's energy and determination.

Pointing and retrieving dogs, often categorized as gun dogs, were selectively bred to assist hunters by performing specialized tasks before and after a shot is fired.12

Pointing: These dogs use their keen sense of smell and sight to locate game, such as birds, in the field. Upon finding the quarry, the dog assumes a rigid posture—or "points"—to indicate the location of the animal to the hunter. This allows the hunter to approach and position themselves for a shot, at which point the dog may flush the bird into the air.13
Retrieving: Once the game has been shot, retrieving breeds are utilized to recover the animal. These dogs are specifically characterized by their "soft" mouths, which allow them to carry the game back to the hunter without causing damage. Many retrieving breeds also possess water-resistant coats, making them particularly effective for hunting in various environments, including water.124

By combining these skills, these dogs significantly increased the efficiency and success of the hunt.2