As its name suggests, the Cirneco dell'Etna is a Sicilian breed of purebred dog. These pups have some of the best characteristics of any dog breed currently in existence, gentle, alert, and independent. These dogs go by a variety of nicknames as well, including Cirneco dell'Etnas and the Sicilian Greyhound, Rabbit Hound, and Dog of the Sicilian.
If you live in an apartment, these dogs might be a terrific companion for you and your active lifestyle. Moreover, they make excellent playmates for young children and delight in cuddling up to their human caregivers whenever possible. If you're looking for a dog that's both independent and loving, this could be the one for you. Cirneco dell'Etna dog breed characteristics and information are listed below!
Highlights
- The Cirneco dell'Etna's primary colour is chestnut or tan, although some dogs may have a white collar or a white patch on their chest.
- They're often seen as a suitable option for allergy patients because of their short coats..
- Cirneco dell'Etnas have a lot of stamina and drive. Your dog should get at least one half-hour to an hour-long walk every day, with a few energetic play sessions and shorter walks thrown in.
- They are incredibly intelligent and easy to train, especially if the trainer employs positive reinforcement and praise.
- Adults or older children who know how to play softly may be preferred by Cirneco dell'Etnas.
- The Cirneco dell'Etna can get along with other pets if they are introduced to them carefully and calmly, and early socialisation is helpful in this regard.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
It's a common misconception that a little dog is better suited to living in a limited space. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. Your dog's personal space in your apartment can be improved by purchasing one of these fantastic dog cages.
Sensitivity Level
Depending on the dog, a strong rebuke can be taken in stride by some, while others regard even the tiniest hint of disapproval as a personal attack. If you have a loud or pushy owner, a chaotic home, or a routine that is unpredictable or variable, your low-sensitivity dog, often known as "easy-going," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," will be able to handle it better. Do you have young children, host a lot of parties, or have a hectic lifestyle? Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.
Intensity
You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. On the other side, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.
Potential for Playfulness
The playful nature of certain dogs never fades away, and they're always ready for a game, whereas the reserved and serious tendencies of other dogs develop through time. Think about how many times a day you want to play fetch or tag with your dog, and whether or not you have children or other dogs who can act as substitutes.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
In the same way as working dogs, such as those that herd sheep, are bred for intelligence and decision-making, working dogs like those who run all day need to exercise their bodies. The two most common activities that a bored pet engages in are digging and chewing, both of which require mental stimulation. There are several ways to keep a dog's brain active, including obedience training, interactive dog toys like tug of war, and dog sports like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
Energy-draining dogs are always on the lookout for a new activity. There are several jobs that require a lot of stamina from dogs, such as herding livestock or recovering prey for hunters. Children are more likely to engage in activities such as jumping, playing and exploring new sights and smells as a result of this change in their environment
A low-energy dog is more like a couch potato than a dog that needs a lot of exercise. Think about your level of physical activity and whether or not you find a hyperactive dog irritating before making your final choice.
Easy To Train
Easy to train dogs can more easily form associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward than dogs that are more difficult to train. Dogs that require more time, patience, and repetition are more difficult to train.
Getting your dog interested in training will require incentives and games because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" mentality when it comes to learning new things.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Since puppyhood, some breeds remain aloof and independent; others form deep bonds with one individual but are uninterested in the rest of the family; still other types shower their entire family with affection. Canines raised in homes with people tend to be more open to human interaction and develop stronger ties, regardless of their breed or upbringing.
Kid-Friendly
Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude about rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, are not always family-friendly.
Dog Friendly
Dog friendship and human friendship are two entirely different things. The fact that a dog is friendly with humans doesn't mean it's immune to aggression or aggression from other dogs; some canines choose to play rather than fight; others will just run away. The type of animal isn't the only consideration. Dogs who have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother at the age of six to eight weeks are more likely to be socially competent.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the home. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely among breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a deshedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, you may want to look into hiring a professional.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighbourhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.
They can gain weight and release their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, including barking, chewing, and digging, if not given enough exercise. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
17 to 26 pounds
Lifespan
12 to 14 years
Height
17 to 20 inches
History
'dell'Etna' is derived from Sicily's Mount Etna, while 'Cirneco' is derived from the Greek 'Kyrenaikos,' meaning 'of Cyrene.' As a result, the Cirneco dell'Etna is thought to have originated in Sicily and been disseminated by dogs aboard Phoenician trading ships. To begin with, they were used to hunt rabbits and hares.
Pharaoh Hounds, seen in ancient Egyptian art, are commonly likened to the Cirneco dell'Etna. Older than ancient Egyptian dogs, Cirnechi are one of the oldest dog breeds; images of dogs similar to today's Cirneco dell'Etna can be seen on Sicilian coins dating back to 500 BC.
Cirnechi were thought to be restricted to the island of Sicily until 1932. As a result, a veterinarian named Maurizio Migneco travelled to Sicily and wrote an article about the dwindling population of Cirnechis. Read Migneco's article and was inspired to bring back the breed by Baroness Agata Paternó Castello of Italy. For the rest of her life, she worked tirelessly to boost the Cirnechi population.
The Italian National Kennel Club recognised the Cirneco dell'Etna in 1939, but the American Kennel Club didn't recognise it until 2015. Even today, the Cirneco dell'Etna is one of the more uncommon breeds to be seen in the United States, coming in at 183rd overall.
Personality & Temperament
Inquisitive, amiable, and extroverted, the Cirneco dell'Etna is a great dog for families. It also has a strong sense of self-reliance and will happily set out on an adventure by itself if left unattended, especially if it notices anything suspicious. Children who are old enough to play fetch or other activities with the dog in an enclosed garden will find it a fantastic friend.
As a result of its innate hunting instincts, the Cirneco dell'Etna should not be left unsupervised in an open area, and it should not be allowed to interact with cats or other small animals. The Cirneco dell'Etna is a warm-blooded dog that enjoys cuddling up to humans or other dogs in order to stay warm in the frigid winter months.
Care
Cirnechi are a relatively simple species, and they don't necessitate much in the way of specialist care to grow. Playtime and quality time with your dog are essential for them, as they are for all dogs. You should give your cirneco extra attention before and after you leave for the day, as they are particularly vulnerable to anxiety when left alone.
Health
For the past 3000 years, this primitive species has had to survive in the parched Sicilian landscape, and it is likely that any genetic flaws that occurred were soon eliminated by natural selection. That these canines had to work for lengthy periods of time without food or drink during hot weather undoubtedly hastened the ageing process. As a result, the breed has never been linked to any ailments, making it one of the few that can claim to be totally healthy.
Recommended Health Test
- Medical testing is not required.
Nutrition
Overfeeding Cirnechi can lead to serious health problems like heart disease and diabetes because of their predisposition to weight gain. Look for dog food intended for medium-sized breeds with a high level of activity. The feeding advice from your favourite dog food manufacturer or your veterinarian can help you figure out how much to give your Cirneco.
Grooming
Cirnechis' grooming requirements are minimal because of their short, smooth coats. You should brush your Cirneco once a week and bathe them as necessary. Cirnechi are a wonderful choice for allergy sufferers despite the fact that they do shed a little.
When it comes to Cirnechi, it's necessary to inspect the ears on a regular basis. Use a soft cotton cloth to gently remove any dirt, debris or waxy build-up from the surface of your vehicle. The sensitive inner-ear components can be damaged by cotton wipes. Dogs with red or irritated ears should be taken to the vet immediately since these could be indicators of infection.
Cirnecos' teeth and gums, like those of all dogs, should be taken care of on a regular basis. Even if you don't brush your dog's teeth on a daily basis, brushing his or her teeth once a week can help prevent oral illness.
Exercise
When it comes to energy, the Cirneco dell'Etna is unmatched. A lack of activity can quickly contribute to weight gain in this breed. Aim for 30 to an hour of daily walking, interspersed with periods of vigorous play. Mental stimulation like puzzles, which can be added to their everyday routine, can help keep them active and stimulated.
Training
It's easy to train Cirnechi if you use food-based prizes and positive reinforcement, as they're very bright dogs. You can either learn how to train your dog on your own or seek the assistance of a professional dog trainer in your area. Early socialisation is essential for Cirnechi, especially when you want to introduce another pet to your family or frequently visit local dog parks.
Children and Other Pets
Overexcited children have no problem playing with the Cirneco dell'Etna because of its medium size. They may, however, prefer to be among adults or older children who are familiar with how to play softly and safely. The Cirneco dell'Etna, on the other hand, can be an excellent energetic companion for kids who learn how to approach and play with dogs appropriately.
While the Cirneco dell'Etna can get along with other pets, it is best to introduce new animals carefully and calmly. This can be accomplished more easily through early socialisation. It's ideal if you can introduce them to other pets as early as possible.
While some Cirnecos can get along well with other dogs and small animals, it's all about training, early socialisation, and a bit of good fortune.
Puppies
Cirneco dell'Etna puppies resemble a miniature version of the adult dog in terms of size. The enormous ears, the lean torso, and the exceptionally long legs are already present. It's inevitable that their entrance will cause a ruckus.
From the minute you first meet them, expect them to be bouncing off the walls. Puppies are already predisposed to being hyperactive. If you don't believe you can handle them as pups, you're not going to appreciate them as adults. Those activity levels don't diminish much as they get older.
You should begin training these dogs as soon as you bring them home as a puppy because they tend to be self-sufficient as adults. The importance of exposing your child to new people and environments cannot be overstated.
As a rare breed, you are unlikely to find Cirneco dell'Etna dogs at pound or shelters. In addition, rescue groups are few, so you'll almost probably need to get in touch with a breeder.
In the $800 to $1,200 range, Cirneco dell'Etna puppies are considered to be on the higher end, but there are more expensive breeds available. It's possible that you'll have to spend extra for a dog with top bloodlines, but this is only essential if you intend to display or breed the dog.
Dog Breeds Similar to Cirneco Dell ‘Etna
- Pharaoh Hound
- Whippet
- Ibizan Hound