If you are looking for a rare breed that has a strong desire to spend much of its time interacting with the family, the cirneco dell Etna may be the companion that you desire. The cirneco dell'Etna takes its name from Mount Etna, the active volcano located in Sicily, the dog's place of origin. As far back as 2,500 years ago, the cirneco dell'Etna was used for its exceptional sight, speed and endurance to hunt rabbits. Today, the dog serves primarily as a household companion. Cirnechi came to the United States when they accompanied their immigrating Italian families. Although the United Kennel Club now recognizes the cirneco dell'Etna, it is still rare outside of Italy.
The Cirneco dell Etna is the smallest of the Mediterranean hounds and bears resemblance to its cousins, the Pharaoah Hound and the Ibizan Hound. Cirnecos are small- to medium-sized muscular dogs with slender bodies. Their muzzles are long and pointy muzzle and their ears are large, triangular and erect. Their coats are glossy and sleek, and usually golden-red. Standing 16.5 to 19.5 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 18 to 27 pounds, the cirneco dell Etna borders between a small and medium-sized dog. Its lithe physique is deceptively athletic, and the overall look mimics that of the canines depicted on the tomb walls of Egyptian pharaohs. The large, pointed ears stand erect, and the tail is long and carried low. The smooth, short coat may be any shade of fawn, ranging from light tan to red. White markings may be present on the chest, head, abdomen, paws or tail tip. The eyes are grey or ochre.
Personality
The Cirneco dell Etna is a friendly, affectionate and loyal dog breed. Cirnecos are curious, inquisitive and can be independent. They can adapt to a variety of environments and will be happy as long as they get to go for runs or brisk walks on a daily basis. They are eager to please and friendly towards their human family which makes them easy to train. They can be shy or timid around strangers or other dogs. Cirnechi are sociable dogs that desire plenty of companionship from their human family members. They get along with children and other dogs. If a cirneco dell'Etna is not raised with cats from an early age, however, it will perceive them as fair game to chase and hunt. A cirneco dell'Etna will also hunt any animals that dare to invade its turf outside, including birds. Cirnechi are sight hounds, and once they catch a glimpse of potential prey, their entire focus lies in the pursuit. Cirnechi must be kept in secure enclosures to prevent determined escapes. Cirnechi are energetic dogs that require daily exercise to prevent boredom or destructive behavior. As long as they get plenty of physical stimulation outside, they usually remain calm inside.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 12 - 14 years |
| Nicknames: | Sicilian hound, Sicilian greyhound, Sicilian rabbit hound |
Cirneco Dell Etna Build Information
The Cirneco dell Etna is the smallest of the Mediterranean hounds and bears resemblance to its cousins, the Pharaoah Hound and the Ibizan Hound. Cirnecos are small- to medium-sized muscular dogs with slender bodies. Their muzzles are long and pointy muzzle and their ears are large, triangular and erect. Their coats are glossy and sleek, and usually golden-red. Standing 16.5 to 19.5 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 18 to 27 pounds, the cirneco dell Etna borders between a small and medium-sized dog. Its lithe physique is deceptively athletic, and the overall look mimics that of the canines depicted on the tomb walls of Egyptian pharaohs. The large, pointed ears stand erect, and the tail is long and carried low. The smooth, short coat may be any shade of fawn, ranging from light tan to red. White markings may be present on the chest, head, abdomen, paws or tail tip. The eyes are grey or ochre.
| Size: | Small |
Behaviour and Personality
The Cirneco dell Etna is a friendly, affectionate and loyal dog breed. Cirnecos are curious, inquisitive and can be independent. They can adapt to a variety of environments and will be happy as long as they get to go for runs or brisk walks on a daily basis. They are eager to please and friendly towards their human family which makes them easy to train. They can be shy or timid around strangers or other dogs. Cirnechi are sociable dogs that desire plenty of companionship from their human family members. They get along with children and other dogs. If a cirneco dell'Etna is not raised with cats from an early age, however, it will perceive them as fair game to chase and hunt. A cirneco dell'Etna will also hunt any animals that dare to invade its turf outside, including birds. Cirnechi are sight hounds, and once they catch a glimpse of potential prey, their entire focus lies in the pursuit. Cirnechi must be kept in secure enclosures to prevent determined escapes. Cirnechi are energetic dogs that require daily exercise to prevent boredom or destructive behavior. As long as they get plenty of physical stimulation outside, they usually remain calm inside.
| Activity Level: | Very Active |
| Affection Level: | Very affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Friendly |
Appearance
Cirnechi are minimal shedders and require very little grooming. Brushing once a week with a slicker brush will collect any dead hairs and maintain the coat's healthy luster. Brushing the teeth daily will prevent periodontal disease and maintain the dog's overall health.
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | Medium Maintenance |
Cirneco Dell Etna Common Health Conditions
The cirneco dell'Etna lives an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Due to the rarity of this breed, there is little documentation available regarding overall health. Due to their minimal amount of body fat, some factors to be aware of include anesthesia sensitivity, blunt trauma injury and intolerance to cold temperatures. Their propensity for running and coursing may predispose them to torn cruciate ligaments and toe injuries.
Cirneco Dell Etna Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
The cirneco dell'Etna originated in Sicily. The cirneco dell'Etna is also known as a Sicilian hound, a Sicilian greyhound and a Sicilian rabbit hound. The plural of cirneco dell'Etna is cirnechi. The cirneco dell'Etna is an active and athletic dog that thrives on the companionship of its human family members. The cirneco dell'Etna stands 16,5 to 19,5 inches tall and weighs 18 to 27 pounds. Cirnechi have a high energy level. Cirnechi require minimal grooming. The average lifespan for a cirneco dell'Etna is 12 to 14 years.
| Training: | Moderately easy |