🍂 Fall at Premier Truffles: Gearing Up for Truffle Season

As the mornings turn crisp and the scent of rain lingers in the forest air, there’s a shift that every truffle hunter knows well — it’s truffle season! Around here, fall is when the anticipation builds, the dogs start tuning their noses, and my own routine shifts from summer’s easy rhythm to a season of focus and preparation.

Preparing the Masters (That’s Me!)

Just like the dogs, I need to get back into “hunt shape.”

That means early morning walks through wet grass, brushing up on my scent ID skills, checking all the gear, and doing a little mental reset. Truffle hunting isn’t just a hobby — it’s a conversation between human and dog, one that requires patience, timing, and trust.

I check my boots, waterproof layers, GPS collars, digging tools, and baskets — because nothing slows down a hunt like forgetting your essentials. And of course, I stock up on treats. Lots of treats.

Training the Team

For the dogs, this is their favorite time of year.

We start easing back into truffle-specific training: short, fun sessions to remind them what we’re looking for. I like to hide truffle-scented cotton balls or small samples in the grass, under leaves, or even buried lightly in soil. Each success builds their confidence — and their excitement.

Somewhere out there, the truffles are waiting… and so are we.

The official pre-season pep talk: sniff hard, dig smart, and don’t eat the profits.”

After months of beach runs, forest hikes, and blueberry-picking breaks, fall signals a return to purpose. The Lagotto Romagnolo thrives on having a job, and when that job involves finding truffles, their joy is contagious.

The Scent of the Season

There’s something magical about that first real truffle aroma — earthy, nutty, almost electric. It’s a moment that reminds me why I do this. Watching one of my dogs freeze, then start to dig with that unmistakable focus, still gives me goosebumps.

Every season brings its own rhythm, and fall is about readiness. Before long, we’ll be back in the woods, headlamps glowing, breath fogging in the cold morning air — following the soft snuffle of a Lagotto on the scent of treasure.

A Few Tips for Fellow Truffle Teams

• Check your gear now. Clean your boots, charge your GPS, restock your bags.

• Refresh your dog’s training. Start with easy hides to reignite their enthusiasm.

• Condition your dog physically. Build stamina with hikes and core-strength games.

• Protect paws. Wet terrain can soften pads — use a good balm or boots if needed.

• Stay flexible. Every season is different — adjust to rainfall, soil temp, and dog readiness.

Ready for the Hunt

Fall isn’t just a season — it’s a reminder of partnership, patience, and joy.

As I watch my dogs work the fields and forests, tails wagging and noses quivering, I’m reminded how lucky I am to share this life with them.

Here’s to another season of muddy boots, wagging tails, and truffle-scented mornings.

~ Carrie Hogan, Premier Truffles