Truffle Hound Training

This bit is all about having fun. This experience is for newbies who want to see if they have what it takes to find a truffle in our Have-a-Go arena.

Experience our personalised, one-on-one 'have-a-go' Truffle Hound Training sessions. Led by our seasoned experts, these hands-on sessions are designed to introduce you and your dog to the exciting world of scent training and truffle hunting. If you're new to to scent training with your dog, our quick trainings offer a fun and educational experience for both of you. Your dog will learn the basics of scent detection in a kind and supportive environment, helping you both to begin to develop the confidence and precision needed to become a true truffle hunting partnership.

Truffle Hound Training
Truffle Hound Training

Our Have-A-Go Head Trainer

Helen Byrne is a Certified Gold Trick Dog Instructor and Trainer of the Year with Kyra Sundance’s Do More With Your Dog since 2020. In 2022, she completed The College of Scent Dogs, City & Guilds Assured Programme, gaining her CSD Scent Detection Dog Handler & Scent Detection Instructor credentials. Helen is a proud CSD Ambassador and an accredited Trials Manager & Judge for SWUK, a judge for Scent Ops, and a Nosework Games Organiser. Helen and her teammate Nellie have achieved great success in many sports scentwork organizations, competing at the highest levels and winning numerous championships. They are currently competing at Level 9, the highest working level in Scentwork UK. Helen and Nellie are one of only two teams nationwide to achieve Excellence in SWUK levels 1-8. Helen has long been passionate about training, earning her Certificate in Training Practice in 2004 and managing teams of trainers within prestigious national newspapers and well-known magazines. Combining her training skills, knowledge, and passion for scentwork and tricks, Helen founded K9 Scent and Tricks School in 2022. She and Nellie have since been captivated by truffle hunting and continue to learn about all things truffle-related. Helen is delighted to be part of the judging team for the second year, wishing all competitors fun and luck on the day.

What is the Have a Go Arena All About?

The Have-A-Go arena operates from 11am-1pm and 2pm-5pm. The area is lush and grassy but safely enclosed - for the more excitable pooch.

This arena is open to everyone who wants to test their dog's truffle-finding abilities. The experience is light-hearted and fun, with no strict rules. Here’s how it works:

Participation
  • You and your dog will have up to 10 minutes to participate per go.
  • Dogs must remain on their leads at all times.
  • Sign-up is required for a specific time slot; if you miss it, you'll need to sign up for another.
Guidance
  • A facilitator will guide you and your dog throughout the process, helping you follow these basic principles:
  • Ask your dog to sit.
  • Maintain eye contact.
  • Encourage them to smell the truffle scent.
  • Immediately reward them and use your working word to indicate the truffle.
Materials Provided
  • Hides with cotton wool
  • Truffle oil
  • Dog treats
  • A mentor to assist with the process

Fun Awards and Prizes

Waggiest Tail
Best Dressed Hound & Hunter

This award celebrates the most stylish duo in the field! Whether you and your dog are matching or have complementary outfits, this prize goes to the pair that turns heads with their coordinated fashion and flair.

Best Dressed Hunter & Hound
Best Dressed Guest and Hound

Showcase your dog’s unique style and flair. This award goes to the pooch with the most creative and fashionable outfit.

Top Sniffer
Best in Have-A-Go

Recognise the dog with the best sense of smell! This award is for the top dog that can sniff out hidden treasures in the have-a-go arena like a pro.