Description
Level 1: Introduction to Truffle Hunting (Foundations I & II)
Nosework is one of the hottest sports around and truffle hunting is a fun way to go a step further by applying those skills in the real world. This course is open to students and dogs of all levels (no previous dog training expertise is needed) and can provide a new challenge for nose work and tracking students – with edible dividends! Culinary varieties of truffles can be found all over the world, and it is possible they exist near you. Learn more about truffles by visiting our About Truffles page.
This class will introduce you and your dog to the exciting activity of truffle hunting. Truffle hunting can boost confidence, develop problem-solving skills, and provide controlled exercise and mental stimulation for your canine. Truffle dog training is also a great way to build focus and to improve your human-canine relationship. It is especially fun and rewarding for dogs and handlers recovering from injury or with limited mobility as well as shy and sensitive dogs to build confidence. Whether you are just looking for a new game to play with your dog or your goal is to locate native truffles in the wild or on orchards, this class will show you how to get started.
Level 2: Developing a Reliable Truffle Dog Team
Welcome back to the fun and exciting sport of Truffle Hunting!
Do you like truffles? These edible fungi are considered a delicacy in the culinary world. They can be found all over the world… maybe even near you! Take advantage of your dog’s amazing scent abilities and learn about recreational truffle hunting! This is a fun way to boost confidence, develop problem-solving skills, and provide controlled exercise and mental stimulation for your canine. Whether you are just looking for a new game to play with your dog or your goal is to locate native truffles in the wild or on orchards, this class will guide you in a fun adventure with your dog.
This class will focus on taking the knowledge and skills learned in Introduction to Truffle Hunting and turn that information into practical application in the field! You will introduce your dog to new elements and environments and learn skills that will aid in finding real truffles in the wild. This course is designed to move beyond foundation work and present real challenges that you will encounter when truffle hunting in the wild.
Level 3: Let’s Go Truffle Hunting: Practical Application and Sustainability
Get ready for a real truffle hunt! It’s no coincidence that we scheduled this course for fall because fall is the beginning of truffle season here in the Pacific Northwest and also in Europe. It’s time to get out there in the field!
This class will transition your truffle hunting skills into the forest to reliably scout out these culinary delights! You will learn to work in tandem with your dog to negotiate a variety of environmental factors when locating these underground treasures. We will guide you step-by-step to successfully transition you and your dog, as a team, to finding real truffles in the wild or on orchards. We will do this by introducing you and your dog to large and complex open area searches. We will then progress to buried hides in a forest or orchard, proofing for distraction, searching negative space, and solidifying alerts for precision in the field. The class also includes games and exercises to strengthen your bond with your canine and boost confidence.
Equipment needed:
Listed below are the tools and suggested equipment you will need (eventually!) to acquire to be able to take full advantage of the lessons taught during our courses. Some of these materials may be purchased directly from us. To view a full list of Training Aids currently available through Truffle Dog Company, visit our STORE.
- Truffle scent solution
- Real truffles (frozen or fresh)
- Scent containers (scent buttons or scent tubes)
- Scent boxes or hides
- Cotton q-tips or cotton balls
- High-value treats
- Your dog’s favorite toy
- Non-retractable leash
- A Harness
- Digging implements such as a garden trowel, spoon, or vanghetto
