Cirneco dell'Etna
Complete Breed Guide

Overview

Temperament and Behavior

Like other hounds, this dog loves to hunt. And Cirnechi will go after whatever they can, be it small animals, or any treats you’ve left on your counter. These beautiful dogs are hard working and bred for hours of outdoor endurance. However, that doesn’t mean that they want to be separated from you. They love humans and are great in families. If raised with other pets, they can get along well with other cats and small dogs. But beware, for Cirnechi will happily chase small furry animals when given the chance. They love to jump, so be sure to keep them confined to a yard with a tall fence.

Coat & Grooming

Cirnechi grooming needs are minimal, having a short, glossy coat. Usually Cirnechi have a brown or sandy-red to tan color coat, with occasional white markings on their chest and necks. They usually only require a weekly brushing to remove dead hairs. Their bodies are meant to endure harsh desert terrain, so their coats don’t provide much warmth. Plan on them snuggling under your blanket if it gets cold.

Lifestyle & Living Conditions

Cirnechi is a medium-sized hound, making them suitable for just about any home. Thanks to their inherent athleticism, Cirnechi excel at agility and lure coursing games. They’re also highly intelligent and obedient. Cirnechi are somewhat easier to train than other sighthounds, as long as you keep the training sessions short, since they get bored quickly. Since this breed is sensitive to movement, be prepared for them to take off after any small animal they spot. They will persist in the chase, being known to jump over fences and burrow under others in order to find their prey. Like most dogs, keeping Cirnechi busy will keep them from being bored or destructive. They need to live indoors, preferably with access to soft furniture or cushions to support their thin coats and bony bodies. Their coats don’t withstand cold weather, so expect a snuggler in the winter.

Exercise & Activity

The Cirnecho dell’Etna is a great companion dog and also makes a great exercise buddy. They love to get exercise and can endure outdoor activities, probably better than you can. This dog has mad jumping skills, so when playing, be sure that they’re contained within a yard with a tall fence. They will most certainly try to escape after any nearby small animals, so keep this in mind when socializing them with any other small animals and pets. Cirnechi love being with humans also, so keeping them inside with you after playtime will keep them happy.