Cirneco dell’Etna

Breed Description

Sicily is renowned worldwide not only for Mount Etna, the Mafia, and its rich history. The free-spirited people residing on this small island have created a unique treasure that they can rightfully be proud of. We are talking about the Cirneco dell’Etna – dogs that have survived to the present day in virtually unchanged form.

Enduring and elegant, they remain tireless companions in hunting small game and serve as excellent tools in the battle against rats, rabbits, and other rodents on local farms. Sicilian breeders take great care in their breeding. The Cirneco dell’Etna possesses completely unique characteristics in terms of scent and endurance, which is why there are certain restrictions in the breed improvement program.

Of great interest to the local public, Sicilian greyhounds are noticeably less common outside the Mediterranean. However, reputable breeders of Cirneco dell’Etna can be found on any continent.

Among dog experts from many countries, debates occasionally flare up regarding the origin of the Sicilian greyhound. However, genetics suggests that the blood of the Cirneco dell’Etna contains genes from the kelb tal-fenek, the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, the Ibizan Hound, and the Segugio Italiano – an excellent tracking dog.

Some sources state that these dogs arrived from Egypt, claiming their first depictions appear in ancient manuscripts and scrolls. However, this information can be challenged. The first official mentions and descriptions of the Sicilian greyhound (Cirneco dell’Etna) date back to 1932 when a publication by a veterinarian from Andran named Maurizio Mineco appeared in “Cacciatore Italiano.” Shortly after the publication, a wealthy noblewoman decided to find a nearby dog kennel where she acquired an entire pack of Cirneco dell’Etna.

Active, cheerful, and spirited, these medium-sized dogs are quite easy to care for, which is why they quickly become beloved pets in any family. Their versatile temperament allows them to thrive both in country homes with large gardens and in urban conditions.Despite all these qualities and their rich history, the Sicilian greyhound is considered a very rare breed even in Italy. From 2010 to 2018, only 150 new individuals were officially registered there. Nevertheless, dog breeders in Russia are familiar with this Italian breed. Their price ranges from 100,000 to 150,000 rubles. You can find dog kennels on the map on our website.

Appearance

The appearance of the Cirneco dell’Etna during work can only be compared to a “Ferrari 125S” in terms of speed while hunting. In capturing prey, the Cirneco has no rivals.

Its paw pads allow it to move effortlessly across the scorching rocky surfaces of the Mediterranean. At other times, it resembles a ballerina in pointe shoes-just as elegant, swift, refined, and graceful.

Despite its overall similarity to other Mediterranean hounds, it is unlike any other. The medium-sized Sicilian hound only vaguely resembles a smaller Pharaoh hound. However, upon closer inspection, these similarities disappear.

Adult male Cirnecos can reach a height of 51-52 cm at the withers and weigh up to 12 kg, while the females are noticeably lighter and shorter, weighing up to 10 kg and standing around 50 cm tall. Notably, their average lifespan often exceeds 12 years.

Their elongated limbs, very short coat, and muscular body always attract the attention of those around them. Some even ask for help in finding a kennel for Cirneco dell’Etna dogs, as their appearance is so striking.

No owner will go unnoticed with one, as the saying goes in Sicily, looking at the “pride of the island.” It is simply a wonderful family dog, perfect for lovers of playful games and active outings.

Отличительные черты

Голова

In the shape of an elongated oval. The top of the skull is barely rounded, nearly flat between the ears. The brow ridges are not very pronounced. The bump on the back of the head is small, and the transition from the frontal part to the muzzle is noticeable but not distinctly defined. The skin on the forehead has shallow folds.

Морда

Feature: rectangular, large earlobes in flesh or nut shades of various tones, which depends on the color of the coat. The long snout is proportionate at 8/2 to the size of the skull. In profile, it has a pointed silhouette with a straight nose bridge.

Уши

Planted high, but at a short distance from each other. Normally upright and directed forward. They have a triangular shape with pointed edges. Cropping is prohibited. Quite large: the length can reach half the size of the head, but no more than that.

Глаза

In proportion to the size of the head, they appear small, most often with amber-colored irises. In some cases, the iris can be gray or ochre. They are oval-shaped, and the color of the eyelids matches the color of the tip of the nose. The gaze is gentle but attentive. Dark brown eyes are not considered an asset.

Зубы

The cheekbones are flat, meaning they do not stand out. The developed jaws are very strong, and the chin is slightly "slanted." The incisors are lined up in a straight row, with a scissors bite, and there are no gaps between the teeth. The enamel is normal, white in color. The canine teeth are large and sharp.

Корпус

Верхняя линия прямая, под наклоном от холки к пояснице. Мышцы спины развиты умеренно, круп под наклоном, плоский. Живот поджат и сухой – типичное строение бегуна. Грудная клетка в длину чуть превышает высоту в холке. Стандарт указывает, что она равна 57% от этого размера.

Конечности

Галоп, временами сменяющийся рысью – такие движения обеспечиваются за счёт особого строения конечностей сицилийской собаки. Прямые, параллельно поставленные передние конечности при взгляде в профиль стоят строго вертикально. Длина лопаток равна 1/3 росту в холке. Локти могут быть чуть ниже грудной клетки, хотя чаще всего на её уровне. Чётко обозначена наименьшая косточка запястья, подушечки лап имеют тот же колор, что и когти. Задние конечности прямые, бёдра длинные, голени чуть меньшего размера по сравнению с бёдрами. Очень лёгкий костяк, но в то же время нельзя называть его хрупким. Лапы задних ног овальной формы, с аналогичными передним характеристиками.

Хвост

The thick tail is set quite low against the background of the slender structure of the dog, almost along its entire length. Its length can reach up to the hock joint of the hind legs. It is saber-shaped when at rest, but it raises when excited. It is completely covered with short fur. Docking is not customary.

Шерсть

Very smooth on the head and limbs. There is no undercoat. The tail and body have slightly longer hair, about 3 cm according to the breed standard. At the same time, the fur on the body is noticeably coarser and feels similar to horsehair. Its special feature and undeniable advantage is the complete absence of any specific odor.

Окрас

Red, fawn (in varying shades from light to dark), sable. In the case of a primary red color, white markings in the form of spots on the muzzle, tail tip, paws, or belly are permitted. A white coat with red markings is also allowed. Red with patches of lighter or darker areas is not prohibited.

Character

The Sicilian Hound, or Cirneco dell’Etna, is not just a hunting dog. Almost every breeder of the breed will say that it has a distinctive and unique temperament. Here are the key characteristics of their nature:

Independence. Cirneco dell’Etna dogs are independent. Working in groups, they are used to making quick independent decisions. Some may see this as stubbornness and excessive autonomy. However, that is not the case. They are very devoted to their owner, but at the same time their character is firm, and the Cirneco prefers a stronger master by their side. Even so, they maintain independence in their actions, clearly indicating what is unacceptable for them.

Liveliness and energy. Sicilian Hounds have a high level of energy and vivacity. They can be playful and active, and they need daily physical activity. It is recommended to give them plenty of exercise during walks or engage in agility or frisbee to fully release their accumulated energy. Otherwise, they will find their own activities, which may not be to the liking of the owner or family members.

Hunting skills. These dogs exhibit a pronounced hunting instinct and are very resilient. They often use their sense of smell to track prey and show impressive results when hunting. Hunters value these traits highly and often purchase several puppies at once. There are also breeding kennels in our country. You can find addresses of well-known breeders offering Cirneco dell’Etna puppies on our website.

Restraint with strangers. Cirneco dell’Etna dogs typically exhibit restraint and caution when interacting with unfamiliar people or other animals. This characteristic usually manifests in the early stages of encounters, as the dog assesses the situation and tries to determine how safe it is. For example, when meeting a stranger, the dog might observe from a distance, studying the person before showing trust.

Curiosity. At the same time, Cirneco dell’Etna dogs have a pronounced curiosity. For instance, a dog may show interest in exploring a new environment, seeking interesting scents, or investigating unknown objects. They are capable of quickly absorbing new information and can adapt rapidly to new conditions, making them excellent companions for active individuals who enjoy various forms of leisure.

Care and Maintenance

Before buying a dog from a breeder, we recommend familiarizing yourself with some aspects of the care and maintenance of this breed:

Physical Activity. The Cirneco dell’Etna is a very energetic dog that requires ample physical exercise. Regular walks and opportunities for running and playing outdoors are essential for maintaining their health and good mood. For example, an owner can spend time with their Cirneco dell’Etna playing in the yard or walking in the park to let the dog run and wear itself out. It’s advisable to acquire plenty of toys for the dog in advance, with the favorites for walks typically being a hoop, frisbee, or ball. There’s no need to worry about the dog getting lost, as every hunting dog breeder microchips the puppies from their litters.

Coat Care. The Cirneco dell’Etna has short, smooth fur that generally doesn’t require special care. However, regular brushing and additional grooming are necessary. Just as we care for our own hair, we should do the same for our pets. For example, after a walk through rough terrain, it may be necessary to clean the coat to remove dirt and prevent skin irritation.

Dental Care. Regular oral hygiene plays a crucial role in a dog’s overall health. Although the Cirneco dell’Etna typically has fewer dental issues than other breeds, regular tooth brushing can help prevent plaque and gum disease. This can be done using special dental chews or a brush and toothpaste designed for dogs.

Nutrition. Proper nutrition is critically important. Choosing high-quality, balanced foods that meet the breed’s needs will help keep the dog in excellent shape. For example, Cirneco dell’Etna owners should use only super-premium or holistic food. Fresh water should be available to the dog 24/7. High-quality foods provide all the essential micronutrients and vitamins in accordance with the animal’s age, size, and weight. Additionally, lines of high-quality dog foods are differentiated by other specific health features. Although the breed does not have strict dietary requirements, owners feeding them natural food must select a diet rich in high-quality proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

In any case, it is vital to monitor the dog’s diet to prevent obesity, which can lead to joint and cardiovascular diseases.Socialization. The Cirneco dell’Etna, like many other breeds, needs socialization with other people and animals. Early socialization helps them develop friendly relationships with others. For example, an owner can take their dog for walks in parks and to training sessions so it can encounter other people and animals. Generally, breeders provide already socialized puppies, but the process of education continues throughout the dog’s life, so be sure to get recommendations from the kennel.Adaptation to the Russian Climate. Sicilian hounds, originally adapted to the hot climate of Sicily, may require certain adjustments in colder conditions. This applies specifically to puppies purchased outside the country. Dog clothing can be helpful, especially during winter walks.Caring for this breed requires attention and a personalized approach, but the experience of owning a Cirneco dell’Etna will yield loyalty and joy from this wonderful dog in return.

Training and Education

Sicilian Greyhounds are quite rare worldwide, so they have specific nuances in upbringing and training. In our country, well-known dog breeders offer proven recommendations for raising and training the Cirneco dell’Etna:

Socialization. From the early stages of life, it’s important to introduce the Cirneco to other pets in the household. These can include not just dogs. Experience shows that even cats can live peacefully with Sicilian Greyhounds. Only small animals like rodents, guinea pigs, and rabbits may become prey for these beautiful hounds. In addition to animals, expose them to new people, various sounds, and environments outside their familiar surroundings. For example, when living in urban areas, there are many stimuli like cars and other machinery that your dog must learn to remain calm around. Positive experiences in early socialization make them more balanced and confident adult dogs.

Be Consistent. Establish clear and understandable rules, ensuring they are always followed. You must be consistent in enforcing these rules: never allow what is prohibited and vice versa. Only with this approach will you have a “gem” by your side, not “costume jewelry.” The Etna Greyhound is worth it, believe me.

Positive Reinforcement. The foundation of training is a positive response to commands executed correctly, rather than punishment for mistakes. Treats do not always need to be the motivator. Use praise or play as a reward for good behavior, and never allow yourself to shout at the dog.

Teaching Commands. Don’t rush into teaching complex commands; start with the basics such as “sit,” “lie down,” “stand,” “no,” or “give paw,” and then increase the difficulty. It may take longer than expected to reinforce commands, but this does not mean your dog is less intelligent. Everything is individual. If difficulties arise, kennels and dog breeders often provide help and recommendations in these matters. Additionally, you can consider courses with professional dog trainers.

Physical Activity. Cirneco dell’Etna are very energetic. Regular games and walks help them release tension and utilize their accumulated energy, which prevents annoying behavior due to lack of outlet.Patience and Tolerance. Sicilian Greyhounds can sometimes exhibit stubbornness. However, reputable dog breeders consider this a sign of independence, as hunting dogs must assess situations and make decisions independently during work. Thus, a positive approach, your patience, and rewards will help them understand what is expected of them.Provide Mental Stimulation. Smart dogs like the Cirneco dell’Etna love intellectual toys and puzzles. Teach them various tricks to help develop their mental abilities and satisfy their curiosity. The best places offer puppies with pedigree.

How to Choose a Puppy

Of course, choosing a Sicilian Greyhound puppy requires careful consideration. Here are the top 5 tips for selecting a puppy before visiting a dog kennel:

Legal documentation. When choosing a Sicilian Greyhound puppy, it’s essential to ensure that the kennel youв’re buying from has the necessary licenses and documents. Make sure all paperwork, including pedigree and vaccination certificates, is in order, and that you will receive all required documents upon purchase.

Buying from a kennel. The best way to acquire a Sicilian Greyhound puppy is to find a kennel that specializes in this breed. Consult recommendations from other dog owners, research the kennel’s reputation, and then ask for their price list.

Veterinary support. Knowing verified information about a puppy’s health is crucial. Make sure all necessary vaccinations and parasite treatments have been done. Request test results for genetic diseases common to the breed.

Before choosing a puppy, it’s advisable to delve deeper into studying the Sicilian Greyhound breed. Discuss its characteristics, care needs, physical activity requirements, and training specifics with the breeder. The better you understand the breed, the easier it will be to select the right puppy and raise it into a healthy and beautiful adult dog.

Experience and recommendations. Generally, reputable breeders in Russia share their personal experiences to help you make a more informed choice. Elite breeds at Zoonika are your ideal choice for purchasing a pet.

Health and Diseases

Despite their stable health, there are several common diseases that the Cirneco dell’Etna may face:

Hip dysplasia, or HD, occurs when the hip joint does not develop properly, often leading to chronic pain and mobility issues in the dog. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper physical development can reduce the risk of this condition.

Eye problems. Some individuals of the Sicilian Greyhound are prone to ailments such as cataracts or corneal lesions. Regular veterinary visits for eye examinations can help identify these issues early and prevent their progression.

Cardiovascular diseases. Some Cirneco dell’Etna have been observed to have mitral or aortic stenosis. Routine veterinary check-ups and electrocardiograms are significant for early detection of these problems.

Genetic diseases. It is important to note that the Cirneco dell’Etna also has known genetic issues, including immune system disorders and metabolic disorders. When purchasing, the breeder should provide the dog’s pedigree so you can ensure that the puppy’s ancestors do not suffer from genetic problems. Puppy breeders often conduct additional genetic screening to improve the quality of their dogs.

Regular veterinary visits, a balanced diet, and an active lifestyle can help reduce the risk of these issues and ensure a long and healthy life for your Cirneco dell’Etna.