Autumn and winter are the perfect seasons to go in search of the renowned and expensive truffles. These delicacies are the result of assiduous research by truffle hunters or hunters. Being there truffle hunting quite difficult and meticulous, their ally is the so-called “truffle dog”: without this precious four-legged with a superfine sense of smell, it would not be possible to find these delicious fruits of nature.
Of truffle dog breeds there are several, but first let’s find out the essential characteristics.
From pigs to truffle dogs
Once upon a time pigs were used to harvest truffles, but since these animals are greedy for these delicacies, they often ate what they found. Furthermore, they are unmanageable animals and cause environmental damage during their searches.
Today things have changed in most European countries and the Italian law provides for the use of a dog trained for this activity to search for truffles.
Although particular dog breeds suitable for truffle hunting are not mentioned, there are breeds that are more predisposed than others, such as those used for hunting, rescue or guarding.
The main features
The truffle dog must undoubtedly have a highly developed sense of smell and there are many dog breeds with this characteristic. In addition to this important aspect, what also matters is that the dog has:
- a sense of smell focused only on the smell of truffles without being distracted by other smells (there is specific training);
- a disinterest in game;
- dedication to research;
- fatigue resistance;
- an obedient, mild and balanced character.
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What are the truffle dog breeds?
As already mentioned, any dog could be used to search for the coveted truffles, but there are some breeds used more than others for this purpose.
This happens both because they are easier to train and because they seem to be there suitable breeds in search of truffles.
The dog breeds most used by professional truffle hunters
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Are crossbreeds good for truffle hunting?
Yes, it is possible to cross breeds to give rise to a specimen with certain characteristics and qualities.
Some trainers employ, for example, the crossings with the Labrador, the Beagle and the Border Collie but also between Bracco and Pointer.
How much does a truffle dog cost?
The prices of truffle dogs vary according to several elements. The puppies that have received thetruffle imprinting (i.e. who have been introduced, for example, to the smell of truffles) can cost around 250 euros. If the four-legged has already started looking for truffles, the price can even double or triple. For dogs that have received specific training, they can have prices ranging from around 1500 to 2500 euros.
Finally, thetruffle hunting training it has prices ranging from a few hundred euros to around 1500 euros.