Agility
Showing
Scent work
Truffling with my Lagotto
some piTruffling with My Lagotto Romagnolos
Truffling is a rewarding activity that connects dogs and handlers through scentwork and teamwork. Lagotto Romagnolos are naturally gifted for this task, with their sharp noses and focused drive.
Historically, the Lagotto was used as a water retriever in the marshlands of Italy—a gundog with a strong work ethic and an exceptional nose. As wetlands were drained and truffle hunting became more prominent, the breed’s aptitude for scentwork transitioned beautifully into its modern role as a truffle hunter.
My own dogs—Cia (in memory), Dita, and Remi—have each played a special role in our truffling journey. Cia took part in truffling in Italy back in 2008, when scentwork training wasn’t as developed. I worked alongside a friend experienced in working trials to support her instincts. Later, Scotland opened up new opportunities to truffle, and the changing climate continues to shape how and where we search.
Truffling in the UK has gained momentum in recent years, with native truffle species found in areas like southern England and parts of Scotland. As awareness grows and climate conditions shift, more handlers are exploring local woodlands for truffle potential. While the tradition isn’t as established as in continental Europe, the UK offers exciting opportunities for scentwork enthusiasts and their dogs to engage with this rewarding activity.
I use positive reinforcement and breed-specific techniques to support my dogs’ instincts. Whether we’re training or searching, the goal is always connection, confidence, and celebration.
While Lagotto Romagnolos are known for their truffling ability, most breeds can learn to truffle with the right guidance and motivation. It’s a skill rooted in scentwork, and many dogs thrive when given the chance to explore it.
Attached some pics of my girls and their brother Ciro out truffling.
Truffling is a rewarding activity that connects dogs and handlers through scentwork and teamwork. Lagotto Romagnolos are naturally gifted for this task, with their sharp noses and focused drive.
Historically, the Lagotto was used as a water retriever in the marshlands of Italy—a gundog with a strong work ethic and an exceptional nose. As wetlands were drained and truffle hunting became more prominent, the breed’s aptitude for scentwork transitioned beautifully into its modern role as a truffle hunter.
My own dogs—Cia (in memory), Dita, and Remi—have each played a special role in our truffling journey. Cia took part in truffling in Italy back in 2008, when scentwork training wasn’t as developed. I worked alongside a friend experienced in working trials to support her instincts. Later, Scotland opened up new opportunities to truffle, and the changing climate continues to shape how and where we search.
Truffling in the UK has gained momentum in recent years, with native truffle species found in areas like southern England and parts of Scotland. As awareness grows and climate conditions shift, more handlers are exploring local woodlands for truffle potential. While the tradition isn’t as established as in continental Europe, the UK offers exciting opportunities for scentwork enthusiasts and their dogs to engage with this rewarding activity.
I use positive reinforcement and breed-specific techniques to support my dogs’ instincts. Whether we’re training or searching, the goal is always connection, confidence, and celebration.
While Lagotto Romagnolos are known for their truffling ability, most breeds can learn to truffle with the right guidance and motivation. It’s a skill rooted in scentwork, and many dogs thrive when given the chance to explore it.
Attached some pics of my girls and their brother Ciro out truffling.
CIL working truffle Certficate
The CIL Truffling Working Certificate is awarded by the Club Italiano Lagotto to dogs who successfully demonstrate their ability to locate truffles in a controlled but natural setting. It’s a respected recognition of a Lagotto Romagnolo’s working aptitude, rooted in the breed’s historical role as a truffle hunter in Italy.
To earn the certificate, dogs must work independently and reliably in a designated search area, locating hidden truffles without guidance or prompting. The test emphasizes natural scenting ability, focus, and handler-dog communication. It’s not just about finding truffles—it’s about showing the dog’s confidence, persistence, and joy in the task.
Many handlers prepare through workshops and practice sessions, often starting with scent imprinting and gradually building toward field searches. The certificate is typically awarded during Raduno events or regional trials, and it reflects both the dog’s skill and the handler’s dedication.
For those passionate about preserving the Lagotto’s working heritage, the CIL Truffling Working Certificate is a meaningful milestone.
To earn the certificate, dogs must work independently and reliably in a designated search area, locating hidden truffles without guidance or prompting. The test emphasizes natural scenting ability, focus, and handler-dog communication. It’s not just about finding truffles—it’s about showing the dog’s confidence, persistence, and joy in the task.
Many handlers prepare through workshops and practice sessions, often starting with scent imprinting and gradually building toward field searches. The certificate is typically awarded during Raduno events or regional trials, and it reflects both the dog’s skill and the handler’s dedication.
For those passionate about preserving the Lagotto’s working heritage, the CIL Truffling Working Certificate is a meaningful milestone.
