A unique event focusing on all things canine and gastronomy takes place this month. Joanne Bednall discovers what the UK Truffle Dog Championships are all about.
Dogs and food! What’s not to love?
If you’re interested in foraging, wild food, and dogs, the UK’s only festival dedicated to truffles should definitely be on your radar this autumn.
Nestling in the heart of the stunning South Downs, the UK Truffle Festival will feature the finest fresh truffles from Britain and abroad, expert talks and workshops, and cooking demos and taster/smelling sessions.
Dog lovers will be spoilt for choice with a best in show dog and handler competition and have-a-go truffle dog scent sessions.
But it is the UK Truffle Dog Championships where you’ll be able to see the country’s top truffle hunters in action. This professionally organised event, which celebrates the bond between dogs and their handlers, challenges canine competitors to find truffle scents hidden in various outdoor locations.
New for 2023, a Bronze category has been introduced, alongside Silver and Gold, each with increasing levels of difficulty.
Forty-five dogs and handlers — 15 teams per category — are expected to participate, and competition looks set to be fierce again this year. Competitors have up to 10 minutes to locate either truffle oil or real truffle baits, which could be hidden above or below ground.
Five points are awarded for each correct truffle oil find and 10 points for every real truffle located. However, points will be deducted for indiscretions, including incorrect calls, digging, and toileting.
Organisers and truffle aficionados Melissa Waddingham and Ben Sweet hope the festival will not only celebrate and raise awareness of native edible fungi but promote safe and sustainable foraging practices.
“Truffle hunting is the perfect blend of being outside in nature, having fun, and building the bond with your dog,” said Melissa, who was inspired to create the championships by the late Marrian Dean, after she established the country’s first truffle dog competition more than 15 years ago. Mel’s self-taught foraging journey with dogs began 17 years ago with a Labrador called Zebedee. She now has working Cocker Spaniels Ela, 11, and five-year-old Aesti, whom she uses when helping people train their dogs to find truffles.
She explained that owners can spot if their dog has the necessary qualities. “The
