A truffle dog is a specially trained canine that helps locate truffles, a type of edible fungus that grows underground, often near the roots of certain trees. These dogs have an exceptional sense of smell, allowing them to detect the unique aroma of truffles buried in the soil. Breeds like the Lagotto Romagnolo, German Shepherd, and Beagle are commonly used for this purpose due to their keen olfactory abilities. Truffle hunting with dogs is a traditional practice in regions known for truffle production, such as Italy and France. The partnership between the dog and the handler is crucial, as the dog indicates the presence of truffles by digging or pawing at the ground. This method is preferred over using pigs, which can be more challenging to manage.