Cirneco dell'Etna Dog Australia

The Cierneco dell'Etna, also known as the Sicilian Greyhound, is a small breed of hound dog from southern Italy. The breed was traditionally used for hunting rabbits, and can be found all over Sicily, particularly around the Mt Etna region from which it is named. The breed is an ancient one, with origins most likely in Persia and remains relatively unaffected by breeding practices. It is thought that the breed most likely arrived in Italy as a result of the trade routes of the Phoenicians. In fact, there is evidence that the breed has been in Italy for as long as 2,500 years.

A robust breed

This ancient breed is known for its ability to hunt and work for many hours in extremely warm conditions. It is highly robust, and is affected by very few health conditions. This may be because the breed has arisen from natural selection rather than deliberate breeding. Cirneco dell'Etnas hunt using a variety of senses: sight, scent, and hearing, making them highly adaptable to a variety of different types of hunting terrain.

The appearance of the Cirneco dell'Etna

The Cirneco dell'Etna is a regal looking breed that somewhat resembles a Pharaoh Hound, but in miniature. However, Cirnecos are much smaller than Pharaoh Hounds, reaching no more than 50cm in height, and have differently coloured markings. The dogs are either tan or chestnut in colour, and have tall, triangular ears and a long muzzle. Their eyes are small and oval, and tend to be similar in colour to the dog's coat. They also have an extremely short coat with a high sheen. They are slender in build, with long legs and a head and body that are delicate in appearance.

Personality of the Sicilian Greyhound

The Cirneco dell'Etna is a highly intelligent breed. They are easy to train, and may be more trainable than other sighthound breeds. However, trainers need to be highly consistent in their training, and must be firm as well. For this reason Cirnecos are best suited to more experienced dog owners. Cirnecos are friendly and highly affectionate, and are fiercely loyal to their owners and their home. They will bark when strangers venture on to their territory, but do not usually display signs of aggression. They require regular attention, and may bark or make a nuisance of themselves if left unattended. They are usually patient with children, making them good family pets.

Exercise & environment

Cirnecos are energetic and active dogs, and need regular exercise. For this reason they're unsuited to households where owners do not have time to provide at least an hour or so of exercise on a daily basis. A simple walk is not usually enough for this breed: rather, they should be given an opportunity to run, leap, and sprint. Owners may wish to run or ride alongside their pet. Cirnecos are born hunters, and owners with small pets should be careful when introducing a Cirneco into the home. A tall fence that can't be climbed is a good idea, and owners should be mindful that their pet might dig holes beneath a fence.

The grooming requirements of a Cirneco dell'Etna are negligible, and owners need only to trim their pet's claws and ensure that the ears are kept clean. If properly trained, Cirnecos are suited to both life as a family pet and to life as a hunting dog.