Source: NPR
An Oregon dog competition is encouraging more people to train their pets for truffle hunting, a niche but growing activity in the Pacific Northwest. Held as part of the annual Oregon Truffle Festival in Eugene, the Joriad North American Truffle Dog Championship brings together amateur handlers and their dogs to compete in timed searches for hidden truffles. Unlike in Europe, where specially bred dogs are often used, the Oregon event welcomes dogs of all breeds, emphasizing that any dog with a strong nose and proper training can succeed.
Truffle hunting is gaining attention as Oregon’s native truffle industry expands. Dogs are favored over pigs because they are easier to handle and less likely to eat the valuable fungi they find. Organizers hope the competition will raise awareness, build enthusiasm and increase the number of trained truffle dogs, helping support local harvesters and growers while turning a specialized skill into an accessible hobby for dog lovers.