The Lagotto's ability to use brain and nose has enabled it to be easily trained to find truffles. Puppies can be assessed for their potential for training. Rewarding puppies for touching or sniffing truffle scented objects, followed by games of 'hunt the truffle' helps build the skills required to hunt for longer periods of time on truffle grounds.
Although ideal truffle conditions in the UK are rarer than in Europe, and likely areas are a closely guarded secret, at least one person in the UK runs truffle hunting classes, which are great fun for both dog and owner. This also means that damp soils at home or in the garden will bring a dog's natural instinct to the fore. So, if you like your lawn or shrubbery to remain pristine, this may not be the breed for you! |
Here is a very informative article on truffle hunting, written by the late Marion Dean, who used to own and manage the Truffle Hunter's Dog School.
Some photos of our dogs who have found truffles
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