Here, we are as passionate about our wonderful Belgian Shepherd dogs as we are about our truffles. These amazing herding dogs are actually a closely related group of four breeds, with the main difference between them being their coat type. They are great all-around farm dogs, and have the ability to herd livestock as well as protect the farm and family from predators and intruders. Renowned for their versatility, intelligence, work ethic, and stamina, they are often used for police and military work. Their medium size and thoughtful, inquisitive, and loyal nature also makes them a great choice as a truffle dog, as well as an ideal companion that is not only stunningly beautiful, but a joy to live with.
If you are thinking about adding one of these amazing dogs to your family, please feel free to reach out and contact us. We do not breed often, but are always happy to talk about our beloved breed, educate the public, and recommend responsible and ethical breeders if you decide that this breed is right for you.
Our Dogs
My passion for truffle hunting is equally matched by my passion for the versatile and beautiful Belgian Shepherds. These dogs are biddable and easy to train, they thrive in anything that involves teamwork with their person, and are a joy to watch as they gracefully move through the woods in search of truffles.
Lola will be 8 in March. She has a great head on her shoulders, and the most stable, calm, and easy-going temperament of any dog I've worked with. When we go out with Lola, we are always guaranteed to find something...ALWAYS!
Lola is also the mom of both my younger girls, Nellie and Cuska. Both are showing great promise, but they have some really BIG shoes to fill!
Emma, at almost 13, is our most senior member. Emma is officially retired, but still enjoys going along for the ride in the front of the truck, where she has the best views, but doesn't have to do any of the work.
Lewis, at nearly 12 years old was born deaf and is now almost blind, yet he remains energetic, particularly when it comes to his cherished truffles. I truly believe there is nothing Lewis enjoys more than assisting me in filling my basket with these fragrant mushrooms.
Beautiful little Nellie is a pleaser, and a charmer, and a fabulous truffle dog! She got an early start when she became the default demo-dog for my truffle dog classes when her mom, Lola, was staying home with her litter of 7 puppies. Nellie, at just 8 months old, handled it like a champ!
I really didn't need another dog, but then along came Cuska and convinced me otherwise. She was the craziest, bounce off the wall, energetic puppy of the litter, and I thought to myself: who in their right mind would want to live with this one? So as Murphy's Law would have it, she ended up with me, and it's been an amazing ride! Imagine channeling all that energy into something productive, like truffle hunting? Cuska found her first wild truffles at just 3 months old, and continues to amaze me daily with her willingness to work, and her joy for life.