Cirneco Dell’Etna

This lightweight, medium sized hound comes from Sicily, and is both a scent and sighthound, able to follow prey whether its visible or not! Originating as the name suggests, from the area around Mount Etna, their original purpose was rabbit hunting, and their small size and tough nature makes them well adapted for this job.

It is believed that the Phoenician traders were at least in part responsible for the development of the Cirneco Dell’Etna, and notably, whilst not quite as old as the Ancient Egyptian dogs, they do bear a striking resemblance!

Their presence on Sicily goes back to 500BC, with depictions of very similar dogs found on Sicilian coins of that era. Prior to 1932, they were not found anywhere other than Sicily and their numbers began to decline. Fortunately, their luck changed when the veterinarian Maurizio Migneco visited Sicily and wrote an article about the breed. The Italian aristocrat, Baroness Agata Paterno Castello read about them, and felt moved to revive and save the breed. She worked toward this end until her death, with the Cirneco Dell’Etna receiving recognition by the Italian National Kennel Club in 1939. They still remain a rare breed today, with the American Kennel club only recognising them in 2015. The first Cirneco Dell’Etna was imported into the UK in 2001 and they are now a recognised member of the Hound Group.

Cirneco owners should understand the behavioural traits of hunting dogs, and be prepared to manage and train in a way that is kind and effective, so that their dog is both fulfilled and safe. If you are a tuned in, switched on nature lover with a keen interest in sharp, clever hunting breeds, then the Cirneco will be a great companion for the whole family. If you’re baffled as to where deer hide or how to tell a hare from a clump of earth at a distance, and don’t want to learn… then the Cirneco is unlikely to be a relaxing or fun pet. 

Two hours of walking per day, ideally split into two one-hour walks, but must involve some free running or scent tracking, chasing toys and other activities. A bored and idle Cirneco is inclined to be troublesome and destructive, so this is a breed to keep busy. They are well suited to a variety of dog activities and sports such as CaniX, Mantrailing, agility, lure coursing and more.

Neat and tidy, the Cirneco will fit into any sized home, from vast mansion to small cottage. As long as they get to spend time with you, and plenty of exercise, they are a happy dog. A secure garden is important and good fencing vital as this is an athletic jumper. Better suited to the rural or semi-rural home.

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed them at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of their particular food.

Check the coat and paw pads daily after walks as this breed can get cut and scratched quite easily, not because they are particularly thin skinned but because they will not notice if running or chasing. The coat is easily maintained with a brush through once or twice a week.

Although sensitive to poor handling, the Cirneco Dell’Etna will learn quickly with the right motivation. Positive reinforcement using food, toys and the opportunity to chase and follow scent will get the best results. The breed is inclined towards independent decision making, so building a strong bond with your Cirneco is vital, so that they look to you for instruction before deciding to go ‘self-employed’. Keep in mind this is a versatile hunting breed so despite their small size, they do need to be socialised well with other pets, livestock and children. Teaching a good solid recall is vital but should never be relied upon so exercising in a safe and secure place is important!

For active families with older children who respect dogs, the Cirneco can be a great companion. With smaller children, they may need more time on training and exercise than a busy family has to offer. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.