Truffle Hunting Without a Dog: A New Approach with TRUFON HUNT
"I don't have a dog. Can I still hunt truffles?" It is one of the questions we hear most. The short answer: yes. TruffleMaps sets the target on the map; TRUFON HUNT detects in the field.
Why are truffle dogs so common?
Ripe truffles release a strong aroma, and trained dogs can pick it up, which is why dogs became the standard method in many regions. That tradition deserves respect. But dog-based hunting is not for everyone:
- Training time and cost — a good truffle dog takes time to develop.
- Year-round care for a limited season.
- Scale — on large properties the dog does not know where to start either.
- Records — where you searched and found nothing is rarely logged.
The new approach: target on the map, detection in the field
1. TruffleMaps sets the target
Satellite, soil, geology, topography and habitat data are analysed together, and priority GPS targets are generated for four truffle species. Instead of walking hundreds of hectares at random, you know which points to check first.
2. TRUFON HUNT detects in the field
The mobile app guides you to the target. There, TRUFON HUNT performs field sensing, the excavation decision is made and the result is recorded with its location.
Compared with dog-based hunting
| Traditional dog-based hunting | TruffleMaps + TRUFON HUNT | |
|---|---|---|
| Where to start | Experience and known spots | Data-driven GPS targets |
| Field detection | Trained dog | TRUFON HUNT field detection |
| Records | Often none | Every measurement and dig recorded |
| Dog required | Yes | No |
Teams that work with dogs can use the system too, but the product is TRUFON HUNT.
What do the results say?
TruffleMaps/TRUFON field work has achieved an 85% successful excavation rate, based on targeted excavation results — not a probability or AI accuracy.
In a real field test, Tuber aestivum was found at all three preselected GPS target locations. In that validation exercise the target locations were checked with the truffle dog Tokyo; the current product story is TRUFON HUNT. Video: field evidence.
FAQ
I don't have a dog. Can I hunt truffles? Yes. TruffleMaps sets the target, TRUFON HUNT detects in the field.
Which species? TruffleMaps targets cover Tuber aestivum, magnatum, melanosporum and borchii.
Is TRUFON HUNT patented? A patent application has been filed: Patent Application No 2026/014888.
How do I buy it? It is offered with TruffleMaps packages on a quote basis. Request access. More answers: FAQ.