Anyone who has spent enough time with hunting dogs knows they share one undeniable trait: They’re expensive. If you haven't yet felt the financial strain of managing your hunting dog’s health, it's only a matter of time before you do. From gear and performance food to GPS collars and emergency vet visits, there are countless ways to spend your hard-earned money on your hunting dog. And that list doesn't even include gear, shells, gas, or hunting licenses.

When it comes to their medical care, hunters want to partner with a veterinarian who understands their needs and those of their canine athletes. Based on my experience and crowdsourced feedback, here are five essential qualities the sporting dog community prioritizes when trying to find a hunting dog veterinarian: