Cirneco dell'Etna: The Sicilian greyhound
Who is the Cirneco dell'Etna suitable for?
The Cirneco dell'Etna is ideal for active individuals or families who spend a lot of time outdoors and are looking for an athletic companion. This breed needs a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, so it is less suitable for people who lead a more sedate lifestyle or have little time for long walks and playtime.
Character and temperament
The Cirneco dell'Etna is known for its friendly and outgoing character. He is intelligent, curious and often a little headstrong, which can make him a challenge for inexperienced dog owners. Nevertheless, he is extremely loyal to his owner and shows a close bond with his family.
Appearance and size
The Cirneco dell'Etna is an elegant and slender dog with an athletic build. It has short, smooth hair and a distinctive brown to sand-colored coat. The large, upright ears and alert expression are typical of the breed. An adult Cirneco reaches a shoulder height of 42 to 50 cm and weighs around 8 to 12 kg.
Care and health
This breed is relatively easy to care for. The short coat only needs to be brushed occasionally to remove loose hair. Regular ear cleaning is important as their large ears are prone to soiling. The Cirneco dell'Etna is generally a healthy breed, but as with all dogs, regular veterinary check-ups should not be neglected. They have an average life expectancy of 12 to 14 years.
Exercise requirements and habitat
The Cirneco dell'Etna has high exercise requirements and needs long daily walks and plenty of opportunity to run and play. Due to his history as a hunting dog, he loves to run and explore his surroundings. He can live in the city, but needs regular outings in the countryside to stay happy and healthy.
Training and education
The Cirneco dell'Etna is intelligent and eager to learn, but also independent. Consistent but loving training is necessary. Positive reinforcement and varied training sessions encourage his willingness to learn and keep him mentally stimulated. Early socialization is important to ensure that he interacts well with other dogs and people.
Interactions with children and other animals
The Cirneco dell'Etna is generally friendly and compatible with children and other pets, especially if socialized early. However, due to its hunting heritage, it can show a strong prey drive, so caution is advised when living with smaller animals.
Recognition by the FCI
The Cirneco dell'Etna is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and is listed in Group 5 (Spitz and primitive type dogs) in Section 7 (Primitive type). This recognition underlines the historical importance and the pure breeding lines of this remarkable breed.
