Service Description

The 2026 truffle season is officially here, and the forests are calling! Oregon’s black truffles are waking up, the whites won’t be far behind, and we’re gearing up for another unforgettable year of searching, learning, and savoring. 👉 Class Size: Very small—4 dogs max to ensure excellent working time. 👉 Extra handlers: Welcome for a small additional fee. Whether you’re hunting for culinary gold or deepening your dog’s natural talents, we’d love to have you join us. Here’s to a season rich with discovery, dirt-covered boots, and the sweet scent of truffle success. Let’s make 2026 unforgettable! Beginner Truffle Detection — 1-Day Foundations Class Our beginner program is a single-day, three-part course designed to give new teams a solid, confident start in the world of truffle hunting. This class is held entirely in our greenhouse training space, offering a controlled environment perfect for learning the fundamentals before venturing into real truffle habitat. Section 1: Understanding Truffles & Terrain We begin with an accessible overview of the truffle world—what truffles are, the species found in Oregon, and the kind of habitat they thrive in. We also cover permits, safe and ethical harvesting, and the environmental factors that influence a productive day in the forest. (Yes, this is where your curiosity meets science. No mud on your boots… yet.) Section 2: Hands-On Dog Training Next, we shift to working with the dogs. We introduce truffle scent imprinting, build early search behavior, and gradually increase the difficulty so your dog begins to understand the joy of the hunt. Every dog works at its own pace, and each lesson lays the groundwork for more advanced skills. Section 3: Cleaning, Storage & Culinary Use To wrap up the day, we explore post-harvest handling—how to clean truffles, how to store them for optimal aroma retention, and delicious ways to enjoy them. This section is always a crowd favorite for obvious reasons. Additional Notes Training truffles are included in the class price. Fresh truffles may be available for purchase, depending on seasonal availability. This class is the required prerequisite for all Premier Truffles advanced field classes.