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Breed Characteristics
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Cirneco dell’Etna
| Other Names | Sicilian Hound, Sicilian Greyhound |
| Nicknames | Cirneco |
| Country of Origin | Italy |
| Weight | Males: 22 – 26 lbs. (10 – 12 kg) Females: 18 – 22 lbs. (8 – 10 kg) |
| Height (at withers) | Males: 18 – 20 in. (46 – 52 cm ) Females:17 – 20 in. (42 – 50 cm ) |
| Coat | Short on head. short to semi-long on body. |
| Colour | Light sand, Isabella, light to dark tan. |
| Litter Size | 2 - 6 puppies |
| Life Span | 12 – 15 years |
| Origin & History | The Cirneco (pronounced cheer-NAY-ko) dell’Etna, also known as the Sicilian Greyhound, may resemble a small Pharaoh Hound, but he’s a distinct breed of Italian origin, with his own color markings, tail shape, and triangle-shaped ears. He gets his name from Mount Etna, on the Italian island of Sicily, where his ancestors hunted rabbit and hare. He stalks silently — so much so that he can even sneak up on birds. Today, this rare breed is predominantly a family companion. |
| Personality | The breed standard calls for the Cirneco to be alert and gentle, with an independent temperament. This curious and playful sighthound loves to be with people. He’s also smart and trainable, especially if you use such positive reinforcement techniques as praise, play, and treats. Although he’s small, the Cirneco is a hunter at heart. Always keep a tight hold on his leash — if he spots a squirrel, he’ll give chase. However, a stern tone of voice should be enough to bring him back to you. Start training your puppy the day you bring him home. Even at eight weeks old, he is capable of soaking up everything you can teach him. Don’t wait until he is 6 months old to begin training or you will have a more headstrong dog to deal with. If possible, get him into puppy kindergarten class by the time he is 10 to 12 weeks old, and socialize, socialize, socialize. However, be aware that many puppy training classes require certain vaccines (like kennel cough) to be up to date, and many veterinarians recommend limited exposure to other dogs and public places until puppy vaccines (including rabies, distemper and parvovirus) have been completed. In lieu of formal training, you can begin training your puppy at home and socializing him among family and friends until puppy vaccines are completed. |
Care Requirements
| Health | Since there are so few of these dogs, little is known about the health of Cirnechi. In general, they appear to be a hardy breed, but they can get muscle and toe injuries while running. A reputable breeder will discuss potential health problems with you, including any conditions that she has noticed in her own lines. Careful breeders screen their dogs for genetic disease, and only breed the best-looking specimens, but sometimes Mother Nature has other ideas and a puppy can develop a genetic condition. In most cases, he can still live a good life, thanks to advances in veterinary medicine. And remember that you have the power to protect your Cirneco from one of the most common health problems: obesity. Keeping him at an appropriate weight is a simple way to extend your Cirneco’s life. |
| Grooming | The Cirneco has a glossy, tan- to chestnut-colored coat that’s easy to groom: Brush him weekly using a hound glove or a rubber curry brush. If you brush him consistently, he shouldn’t need a bath too often. The rest is routine care: Brush his teeth frequently with a vet-approved pet toothpaste for good overall health and fresh breath, and trim his nails every week or two. Sighthounds are sensitive about having their feet manhandled, so be careful not to cut into the quick. If you do, your Cirneco won’t forget, making future nail trimmings more difficult. |
| Exercise | This lively and friendly Sicilian hound is an excellent companion and watchdog who requires regular exercise; 20 to 30 minutes daily. |
| Other Considerations | Install a tall fence in your yard because the Cirneco dell’Etna is a stellar jumper, he’s also a digger — if he can’t clear the fence, he may just burrow beneath it. The Cirneco needs to live indoors, preferably with access to soft furniture or pet bedding. He isn’t built to withstand cold weather, so don’t be surprised if you find him snuggling under the covers with you at bedtime. |
