Cirneco dell'Etna: temperament, price, health, and breeders

The exact origins of the Cirneco dell'Etna are debated. Some sources place the birth of the breed in Sicily, in the Etna region, while others trace it back to ancient Egypt, before an arrival on the Mediterranean island aboard Phoenician ships. Its presence in Sicily is nevertheless attested since before our era by numerous ancient objects, notably coins bearing representations of dogs of this type.

The Cirneco dell'Etna is a primitive-type dog, of medium size, with a slender, elegant and light silhouette. Its slightly long-lined body fits into a square, with a straight and muscular back, a firm loin, a rather flat croup, a rather narrow chest and a dry, tucked-up belly. Its long and narrow head carries large erect triangular ears oriented forward. Its small eyes, ochre, amber or grey in colour, express gentleness. The coat is fine, short and lying close, even very short on the head, ears and limbs. The coat colour is solid fawn, more or less intense or diluted, or fawn and white. The tail, thick at the base and set low, is carried sabre-like at rest and raised like a trumpet in action.

Full of affection and gentleness, the Cirneco dell'Etna is very attached to its owner, whom it likes to please and alongside whom it enjoys working. Lively and tenacious, it retains a strong hunting instinct, particularly for the wild rabbit. It is at ease on varied terrain, including difficult ones. Its sociability with children, other animals and strangers is average and benefits from being supervised by early socialization.

Active and playful, the Cirneco dell'Etna must run and exercise every day. Simple hygienic outings are not enough for this hunting dog. A house with a large, well-fenced garden is its ideal setting. It can adapt to the city if its activity needs are truly met and if it regularly has access to large open spaces. Apartment living suits it poorly.

Known for being not very obedient, the Cirneco dell'Etna requires a firm, consistent education free of any brutality. You must clearly show him what is expected without entering into a power struggle. Early, high-quality socialization, combined with solid recall training, promotes a pleasant and hardworking companion.

The purchase price varies depending on the breeder and the dog's profile. You should also plan for an annual maintenance cost estimated between 350 and 500 euros according to the reference sheet.

Rustic and rather hardy, the Cirneco de l'Etna does not show, according to the reference sheet, any particular predisposition to a disease specific to the breed. It is not considered hypoallergenic.

The Cirneco de l'Etna needs a quality diet adapted to its size, age and level of physical activity. The ration must match its expenditure without promoting weight gain.

The Cirneco de l'Etna is also called the Sicilian Greyhound or Cirneco dell'Etna. Specialized in hunting wild rabbits, it has been recognized by the FCI under number 199 since 1956 and belongs to group 5 of Spitz-type and primitive-type dogs. A litter generally consists of 3 to 5 puppies.