Premium Truffle Dog Training Program | Real Truffles | Georgia & Southeast
If you’re looking for a serious, honest approach to truffle dog training, this program was built for that purpose. I train dogs to locate truffles using real, ripe truffles, not synthetic oils, through a structured process that develops scent recognition, obedience, and confidence in the field.
This program builds on the same disciplined foundation used in my Old Salem Kennel Obedience Training and advanced working-dog programs, adapting those principles specifically for scent-based field work.
Program Overview
Program Length:
4–5 month commitment
Monthly Investment:
$1,850 per month
Training Location:
Piedmont region of Georgia — Oconee County, Greene County, and Morgan County
All training is conducted on-site, with dogs staying in my care throughout the program.
Training Philosophy
Truffle work is not about tricks or gimmicks. It’s about teaching a dog to become keen, intentional, and reliable in identifying and seeking out the scent of a real truffle.
As with my Old Salem Kennel Obedience Training and Old Salem Kennel Gundog Training programs, the foundation is structure, clarity, and consistency — applied patiently and honestly.
Just as important, this program is built around partnership. A truffle dog works best when the handler understands the dog, the process, and the expectations.
Use of Real Truffles
I train exclusively with real truffles.
Truffle oils can be useful tools, but real truffles carry a complex scent profile that oils cannot fully replicate. Since the goal is for a dog to hunt real truffles in real conditions, that is what I use in training.
All truffles used are real and ripe, because that is what the dog ultimately needs to learn to locate.
Training Format & Owner Involvement
This is a fully on-site, in-board training program.
- No virtual training
- No remote homework
- No online instruction
However, owner involvement is an important part of the process.
If schedules permit, owners will be brought into the training process after the dog has been in training for approximately two to three weeks. This mirrors how I transition handlers in my Old Salem Kennel Gundog Training program — building a dog first, then building the team.
Owners will be taught:
- How to handle and work with their dog
- How to reinforce scent work properly
- How to read their dog in the field
- How to continue developing the dog after returning home
The goal is for the owner to become an effective teammate — not just an observer — as both the dog and handler advance together.
Owners also receive:
- Regular progress updates
- Video documentation of their dog working
- Clear communication throughout the program
Breeds & Age Guidelines
Any dog can be trained to hunt truffles. Success depends more on nose, interest, and willingness to work than on breed alone.
That said, dogs that commonly perform well include:
- Lagotto Romagnolo
- Labrador Retrievers
- German Shorthaired Pointers
- Other hunting and working breeds
Starting young is preferred, but adult dogs can be trained if they show drive, curiosity, and engagement.
Program Structure & Expectations
The 4–5 month commitment allows time for:
- Proper scent association using real truffles
- Obedience work tied directly to scent tasks
- Transition from controlled searches to field conditions
- Building consistency and confidence
The obedience component is reinforced throughout the program using the same principles outlined on the Old Salem Kennel Obedience Training page.
There are no guarantees.
As long as a dog is progressing and showing interest, training continues. If a dog shows little momentum or engagement despite appropriate time and training, I will communicate clearly with the owner and make a decision that is best for the dog and the client.
What’s Included
- Real truffles for all scent training
- Super-premium dog food
- Digestive probiotic supplement
- Obedience training integrated with scent work
- Field exposure and search development
- Video documentation of progress
Owners must provide:
- Monthly flea and tick preventative medication
Field Work, Health & Safety
Field work is an essential part of truffle dog training and is included in this program.
Owners are encouraged to:
- Keep dogs current on vaccinations
- Consult their veterinarian regarding seasonal risks
- Consider rattlesnake vaccination during warmer months
All veterinary care related to illness or injury is the responsibility of the owner and is addressed through signed paperwork prior to training.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of dogs are best for truffle hunting?
Working and hunting breeds with good noses tend to excel, but any motivated dog can be trained.
How long does it take to train a truffle dog?
Every dog is different. That’s why this program is structured as a 4–5 month commitment, with continued owner involvement after completion.
Do you use truffle oil?
No. I train only with real truffles.
Can adult dogs be trained?
Yes, provided they show interest, drive, and willingness to work.
Is field work included?
Yes.
What happens if my dog isn’t progressing?
We communicate and make a decision that’s fair to the dog and the owner.
Additional Information (For Property Owners & Farms)
I do not personally hunt truffles from a commercial standpoint for restaurants or brokers. The properties I hunt are limited in size and production. While the truffles found are good quality, they are not produced in large quantities.
However, I am open to working with established truffle farms and private properties.
Services may include:
- Truffle dog evaluations
- Property evaluations for truffle potential
- On-site assistance with trained or developing truffle dogs
These services are offered for a nominal fee, with half-day and full-day rates based on time and travel distance.
If you are a truffle farm owner or land manager interested in discussing this further, please contact me directly by phone.
Contact & Enrollment
Because enrollment is limited, the best way to inquire about availability or discuss your dog is by phone, 706-614-0217. Or, email: oldsalemkennel@gmail.com
This ensures the program is a good fit — for you and for your dog.
Old Salem Kennel, Inc.
Todd W. Harvey
2122 Old Salem Rd.
Watkinsville, GA 30677-3874
706-614-0217
oldsalemkennel@gmail.com
Serving Georgia and the Southeastern United States.