Train Your Dog to Find Truffles in 90 Days
Develop a confident truffle detection dog through a structured 12-week training program guided by professional detection dog trainer Emma McPherson.
Finding truffles with a dog is one of the most rewarding ways to work with your dog. But developing a reliable truffle dog requires more than enthusiasm - it requires a clear training structure that builds odour recognition, search behaviour, and reliable indication.
In this program you will train alongside Emma as she develops a truffle detection dog in real time. Each week you will follow the same step-by-step training progression and apply the lessons directly with your own dog.
You will submit training videos, receive feedback, and develop your dog’s skills through a clear and practical pathway designed specifically for truffle detection.
This program is designed for truffle growers and dog handlers who want to develop a dog capable of confidently locating truffles underground.
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The 90 day Training Pathway
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Each week introduces a new step in the development of your dog’s truffle detection skills.
The training builds progressively so both you and your dog gain confidence and clarity as the program unfolds.
Week 1 - Building Motivation and Engagement
Every detection dog begins with motivation. This week focuses on building reward value and engagement so your dog sees training as an exciting opportunity to work with you.
You will establish the training structure, markers, and session flow that will support the rest of the program.
Week 2 - Introducing Truffle Odour
Your dog will learn that truffle odour predicts reward. This week focuses on creating a clear and positive association with the target scent so the dog begins seeking the odour source.
Week 3 - Starting the Search
This week introduces the search game. Your dog begins actively hunting for odour rather than simply recognising it.
You will learn how to encourage forward hunting behaviour and build enthusiasm for searching.
Week 4 - Teaching the Indication
Finding odour is only part of the task. Your dog must also clearly communicate where the odour source is located.
This week focuses on developing a clear indication behaviour so the dog can confidently show you where the scent is coming from.
Week 5 - Building Independent Searching
A good truffle dog hunts with purpose rather than waiting for handler guidance.
You will learn how to build independent search behaviour and avoid unintentionally cueing your dog during searches.
Week 6 - Understanding Changes in Behaviour
Detection dogs communicate through subtle changes in behaviour when they encounter odour.
This week teaches handlers how to recognise those behavioural changes and support the dog as they work scent toward source.
Week 7 - Introducing Depth
Truffles grow underground, so dogs must learn to work odour rising through soil.
This week introduces the first stages of depth training so the dog begins understanding that scent may originate below the surface.
Week 8 - Improving Source Isolation
As depth increases, dogs must learn to isolate the precise location of the truffle.
This week focuses on improving accuracy so the dog can pinpoint the exact location of the scent source.
Week 9 - Expanding Search Environments
To develop a reliable detection dog, training must include variety.
You will introduce new search setups that help your dog generalise the detection game while maintaining strong odour commitment.
Week 10 - Orchard Style Searching
This week begins transitioning training toward orchard-style searches.
Handlers learn how to structure search areas and guide the dog through realistic truffle hunting environments.
Week 11 - Reliability and Distraction Proofing
Real environments include distractions and changing conditions.
This week strengthens the dog’s commitment to the target odour and improves reliability across different search conditions.
Week 12 - Bringing the Skills Together
The final week integrates everything your dog has learned.
You will complete full search sequences that combine odour recognition, searching, depth work, and clear indication.
By the end of the program you and your dog will have developed a strong truffle detection foundation and a clear pathway for continuing your training in the orchard.
Bonus Training Included
To support your success in the program, several additional learning modules are included.
Foundations Course – Detection Knowledge Before You Begin
Before the training program starts, you will gain access to the Muddy Pawz Foundations Course.
This course prepares you with the knowledge needed to confidently begin training your dog.
You will learn:
• How dogs learn
• How the canine nose works
• How scent moves through the environment
• The principles behind detection dog training
• How to structure effective training sessions
This ensures that when the 12-week program begins, you already understand the key concepts behind the training process.
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Bonus Week – Truffle Harvesting and Grading
For participants who enrol in the month of March, an additional training module is included.
This session covers the practical side of working with a truffle dog once truffles are located.
You will learn:
• How to harvest truffles correctly
• How to avoid damaging developing truffles
• Cleaning and handling truffles after harvest
• Understanding truffle grading and quality
This knowledge helps handlers understand the full process from locating truffles to preparing them for market.
Train Alongside Emma
Throughout the program you will be training alongside Emma as she develops a truffle detection dog in real time.
Each week you will see how the training is progressing and apply the same steps with your own dog.
Participants can submit training videos for feedback and guidance so you stay on track as your dog develops.
Program Details
Duration: 12 Weeks
Program Start: May 4 2026
Weekly training modules
Video submissions and feedback
Guided training progression
Investment
$3,500 USD
Places are VERY limited to ensure each participant receives guidance throughout the program.
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