Cirneco dell'Etna
The Cirneco dell'Etna is an Italian dog breed originating from Sicily. The Cirneco dell'Etna comes from Italy, typically weighs Males, and has a short on head, short to semi-long on body coat. Individual Cirneco dell'Etnas vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Italy
- Weight
- Males
- Height
- Males
- Coat
- short on head, short to semi-long on body
- Colour
- light sand, isabella, light to dark tan
About the Cirneco dell'Etna
The Cirneco dell'Etna is an Italian dog breed originating from Sicily. Males weigh 20-30 kg and stand 40-45 cm tall.
Name
The first word of the name, cirneco , derives from the Latin : cyrenaicus , related to Cyrenaica in North Africa, and in modern Italian is used for all the small hunting dogs of the Mediterranean islands, including Sicily, Malta and the Balearic Islands . The second part relates to the area of the Etna volcano in Sicily, where it originated.
Overview
The Cirneco dell''Etna [ a ] ( Sicilian : Cirnecu ) is an Italian breed of hunting dog from the Mediterranean island of Sicily . It is named for the Etna volcano in eastern Sicily. It has a keen sense of smell, and is used to hunt small game , particularly rabbits . As with many working dogs, registration is conditional on successful completion of a working trial .
History
The Cirneco is a traditional warren hound of Sicily. It is commonly claimed that it is an ancient breed, with origins in Ancient Egypt or Phoenicia ; according to the Ente Nazionale della Cinofilia Italiana , coins and inscriptions document its presence in the island from before the time of Christ . Genetic studies of the relationship of the Cirneco to other breeds have yielded conflicting results: one confirmed the Kelb tal-Fenek of Malta and the Podenco Ibicenco of the Balearic Islands to have the least genetic distance from it, but also linked it to the Pyrenean Mountain Dog ; another found evidence of gene flow from the Podenco Canario of the Canary Islands ; a genomic study in 2021 found it to be most closely related to the Kelb tal-Fenek, the Segugio Italiano a Pelo Forte and the Segugio Italiano a Pelo Raso . The earliest written description of the modern breed was by Maurizio Migneco, a veterinary surgeon from Adrano on the slopes of Etna, who published an account in Il Cacciatore Italiano in 1932. This was seen by a Sicilian noblewoman, Agata Paternó Castello, who bought some of the dogs and in 1934 started breeding them. The breed was recognised by the Ente Nazionale della Cinofilia Italiana in 1939, based on a breed standard drawn up by the cynologist Giuseppe Solaro of Turin . The Cirneco was definitively accepted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1956. It is a rare breed; in the period from 2010 to 2018, new registrations in Italy were between about 100 and 150 per year. Breed registration is conditional on successful completion of a working trial – in this case a specific field trial.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Cirneco dell'Etna?
The Cirneco dell'Etna is a medium-sized dog with a muscular build, short coat, and a wedge-shaped head. It typically weighs between 20-30 kg and stands 40-45 cm tall at the shoulder. Its short, smooth coat comes in various colors, including fawn, brindle, and white. The breed is known for its athletic ability, agility, and keen sense of smell.
Is the Cirneco dell'Etna a good family dog?
The Cirneco dell'Etna is a working breed that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation. They can be suitable for active families who can provide the necessary physical and mental activity. However, they may not be the best fit for families with very young children due to their strong hunting instinct and potential energy levels.
What health problems do Cirneco dell'Etnas have?
As with many breeds, the Cirneco dell'Etna can be prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye problems. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can help identify potential issues early on. Responsible breeding practices can also help minimize the risk of inherited health problems.
How much does a Cirneco dell'Etna puppy cost?
The cost of a Cirneco dell'Etna puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. On average, a reputable breeder may charge between €800-€1,500 (approximately $900-$1,700 USD) for a puppy. However, prices can be higher or lower, and it's essential to research and find a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.
Where do Cirneco dell'Etnas come from?
The Cirneco dell'Etna comes from Italy. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Cirneco dell'Etna, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.