Sometimes termed Sicilian Greyhounds, the Cirneco dell’Etna breed is known for its roots in Sicily almost 3,000 years ago. However, it is thought that the Cirneco dell’Etna actually did not originate first in Sicily, but rather in Egypt or Libya. In fact, “cirneco” literally means “dog of Cyrene”, otherwise known as Libya.
As a member of the Hound group, the Cirneco dell’Etna is a talented and athletic hunter that captures prey with quick bursts of speed. This is not surprising at all, being that the Cirneco dell’Etna is thin and agile, appearing fast while simply standing. In the 1930s the Cirneco dell’Etna was almost driven to extinction, but renewed interest in the breed has brought it back from its endangered days.
Characteristics of the Cirneco dell’Etna
The Cirneco dell’Etna has the distinct appearance and personality of a gifted hunter. Let’s explore these traits.
Appearance
The Cirneco dell’Etna is rather tall, standing between 16.5 and 19.5 inches high. However, weighing only 17 to 26 pounds, this breed is among the thinnest relative to its height, with the males being taller and heavier than the females. The coat of the Cirneco dell’Etna is slender yet rugged, and can be seen in a light tan, dark tan, or chestnut color. Its short coat requires minimal care, with only a gentle weekly brushing with a soft brush or hound glove, and a bath as needed.
Perhaps the ears of the Cirneco dell’Etna are its most distinctive physical trait. His ears are large and stand completely upright, causing the breed to look ancient, as though he should be painted on an Egyptian tomb.
Temperament/Personality
The Cirneco dell’Etna is a mild, low maintenance companion. The breed has a loyal and gentle nature and is naturally sweet and independent. Intelligent and inquisitive, this breed is naturally in-tune with its hunting instincts, and therefore is not a good companion for households with cats, small dogs, or rodents. The Cirneco dell’Etna is, however, great with children and makes a great family pet, as he is very friendly and affectionate.
Because of the strong bonds he will form with his owners, the Cirneco dell’Etna can suffer from separation anxiety. If left alone for long periods, he will be lonely and unhappy. Cirneco dell’Etna‘s are good with traveling because they are simply happy to be near you, wherever you chose to go.
It’s a good idea to provide your Cirneco dell’Etna with early socialization and training classes as a puppy to reduce separation anxiety later on. When leaving your Cirneco dell’Etna for the first time, try to have another individual stay with him. Return shortly and show your Cirneco dell’Etna that you will always come back for him. Once your Cirneco dell’Etna understands that he isn’t being abandoned, you can begin to leave him alone for longer periods of time, but never too long.
Without major health concerns during its lifetime, the Cirneco dell’Etna will usually live between 12 and 14 years.
Caring for the Cirneco dell’Etna
Like any dog breed, the Cirneco dell’Etna has specific care requirements, but ultimately just needs a loving owner to provide for him.
Nutrition
For nutrition, your Cirneco dell’Etna will require a high-quality dog food appropriate for his age and activity level. Because this breed is so energetic, you will especially want to be sure that you always have clean, fresh water available for him to drink. Due to the activity level of this breed, obesity is not usually a problem, but can still occur if your Cirneco dell’Etna is given too many table scraps and is not provided with ample opportunities for exercise. Contact your local vet if you have questions about your pets’ diet or weight.
Exercise
Your Cirneco dell’Etna will require moderate to high exercise and mental stimulation to maintain a healthy weight and a happy life. Long walks and other activities with family members will be great fun for your Cirneco dell’Etna. This breed also enjoys playing in large enclosures, such as a fenced backyard. Originally from the desert, the Cirneco dell’Etna is extremely tough and durable. This breed can often go without food or water for hours under the hot sun- although you shouldn’t try to test his limits.
Training
Luckily, the Cirneco dell’Etna is more trainable than the usual sighthound. Although he has a strong and independent temperament, early socialization and puppy training classes will help grow your Cirneco dell’Etna into a well-mannered companion. Despite his tough nature, gentle methods of training are usually best. Praising your Cirneco dell’Etna when he does something correctly is more effective that admonishing him when he does something wrong. Overall, your Cirneco dell’Etna will want to please you and thus will try his best during training despite his confident nature.
Health
The most common health problem occurring in the Cirneco dell’Etna breed is problems with the ears. This is understandable, being that the ears of the Cirneco dell’Etna are absolutely huge. Ears should be inspected frequently for dirt or built up wax. If the ear is dirty inside, use a soft gauze and dog ear cleaning solution to gently wipe out the ears. The ears should be cleaned once a week at least. His nails should also be trimmed regularly when they grow too long for comfort. Lastly, your pet’s teeth should be brushed often with toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs.
Overall, though, the Cirneco dell’Etna is actually a very hardy and healthy breed that will be a happy and long-lived companion given the care he needs. Make sure to bring your Cirneco dell’Etna to the vet regularly to provide for regular check-ups and parasite and infection control. If you ever have any questions about the health and well-being of your beloved Cirneco dell’Etna, contact your local veterinarian as soon as possible.
Similar Breeds
Best Dog Food For Cirneco Dell’etna
One of the best dog food packed with nutrition and high-quality ingredients for your Cirneco Dell’etna is Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food. It is a grain-free mix of sweet potatoes, chickpeas, buffalo, chicken meal, lamb meal that helps boost energy, promotes brain development, maintains a shiny coat, and strengthens vision. A recipe catered for a healthy and functioning life for your Cirneco Dell’etna.
- This mix is grain-free, i.e., it does not include corn, soy, or wheat; hence it is safe for dogs that suffer from a sensitive stomach.
- It provides the proteins and powerful antioxidants that are vital for leaner muscles.
- It comes with an irresistible taste and flavor that will be loved by your Cirneco Dell’etna.
Best Puppy Food For Cirneco Dell’etna
Feeding your Cimeco Dell’etna proteins packed food in their puppy stage that facilitates growth is very important. Purina Pro Plan Puppy Lamb & Rice Formula Dry Food supports growth in puppies by including lamb and omega-rich fish oil in their formula. The lamb is easy to digest and gives all the proteins required for essential development, and the omega-rich fish oil ensures nourishment of brain and cognitive abilities.
- It stimulates a healthy digestive system.
- No artificial colors and flavors added to its mix.
- It helps in the overall growth and development required for a puppy to grow into a healthy adult.
Best Dog Crate For Cirneco Dell’etna
If you decide to foster a Cimeco Dell’etna and go for crate hunting, then Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate should be your buy. It is a strong, durable crate that prioritizes your Cirneco Dell’etna’s safety and comfort. The crate’s peculiarities include a wide 42-inch fold and carry double door along with a 42-inch gray basketweave dog crate mat, which is made of ultra-soft material that makes it cozier to stay.
- Adjustments can be made as your dog grows.
- Easy to assemble and hassle-free
- It is equipped with a plastic base pan at the bottom of the cage for easier clean-ups.
Best Dog Bed For Cirneco Dell’etna
A night of beauty sleep in the FurHaven NAP Ultra Plush Orthopedic Deluxe Cat & Dog Bed can prepare your Cirneco Dell’etna for an energetic morning. Designed with a unique convolute foam material that helps distribute their weight smoothly without applying any added pressure on their joints and muscles. It is also covered with a foam cover that keeps them warm in winter chills and cools them in the summer heat.
- Easy to step on the bed
- Packed with supportive and cushioning convolute foam
- Washable and retains support and cushioning
Best Dog Harness For Cirneco Dell’etna
Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness can be your best choice for walking your Cirneco Dell’etna; it is equipped with a nesting buckle system designed based on the engineering harness used by rock climbers to prove a strong, sturdy harness. Along with this, it is also adjustable and attempts to reduce stress around your Cirneco Dell’etna’s chest by backing it up with a chest pad. It is everything a harness should be strong and protective.
- It is crash tested, i.e., it ensures your dog’s safety while you are on wheels.
- Functions as an auto and walking harness
- It has five adjustment points making it fit for any size.
Best Dog Collar For Cirneco Dell’etna
PetSafe Quick Snap Buckle Nylon Martingale Dog Collar is the best accessory that you can have your Cirneco Dell’etna wear. It is designed to have more control over your Cirneco Dell’etna without putting them through the danger of choking and reduces chances of slipping and escaping through the collar. It is a safe choice to protect them from any hazards or accidents.
- Equipped with an easy buckle system
- It is durable and safe.
- It doesn’t cause hair to fall or matt around the collar area.
Best Dog Muzzle For Cirneco Dell’etna
The best dog collar for your Cirneco Dell’etna is Four Paws Walk-About Quick-Fit Dog Muzzle. It can be your aid in teaching discipline to your Cirneco Dell’etna. Ranging in 7 different sizes, this durable nylon material muzzle is comfortable, secure, and helps control different aggressive patterns like biting, barking, chewing, etc.
- Escaping from the muzzle is not easy.
- The muzzle allows breathing, panting, and drinking water.
- It is a secure and comfortable fit for your Cirneco Dell’etna.
Best Dog Toys For Cirneco Dell’etna
Mental training your Cirneco Dell’etna is as crucial as physical training. Trixie Activity Flip Board Activity Strategy Game Dog Toy can be your Circeno Dell’etna’s mental gym to help train their intelligence and curiosity. A simple flip board design comes with openable compartments, where it is their task to get treats from them by using some brainpower.
- A good activity to exercise your dog’s intellect.
- User friendly and easy to wash
- A good way of rewarding system
Best Dog Brush For Cirneco Dell’etna
Tangling of fur and coat can be Cirneco Dell’etna’s owner’s nightmare; hence taking precautionary measures and choosing the right brush is very important. The Safari De-Matting Dog Comb is designed to help you untangle the tangled mass of hair. Its smooth bristles get deep inside to disentangle clumped mats and knots without pulling their hair, making it a safe and less painful grooming experience.
- Safe for sensitive skin.
- It helps in increasing blood circulation.
- A cheap and permanent solution to tangled curls.
Best Dog Shampoo For Cirneco Dell’etna
Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo with Colloidal Oat Flour & Honey for Dogs should be an addition you should make to your Cirneco Dell’etna’s shower routine. Its natural composition of Colloidal Oat flour provides deep nourishment, and honey retains its coat’s luster. It has a perfect pH balance and is free from any harmful chemicals making it safe to use.
- It is a gentle cleanser that gives a beautiful shine.
- Helps in conditions of eczema and other skin conditions
- Good for moisturizing and maintaining your Cirneco Dell’etna’s coat.
Recommended Reading:
- How Much Does A Cirneco Dell’Etna Cost?
- Best Dog Food
- Best Dog Bowl
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- Best Interactive Dog Toys
- Best Dog Playpen
- Best Outdoor Dog Kennel
- Best Dog House
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- Best Dog Treat
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- Best Dog Activity Monitor
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- Best Dog Ramp
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- Best GPS Tracker for Dogs
- Best Dog Bed
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- 10 Breeds Most Compatible with Cirneco dell’Etna
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